Are you a Secondary Teacher who is passionate about elevating youth voices? Apply today to be a Speak Truth Fellow!
The Speak Truth Fellowship is a year-long program for secondary teachers grounded in the evidence-based methodologies of Inspired Teaching and Ford’s Theatre. Fellows learn how to foster lively and insightful student-led seminars on issues that matter by building improvisation, inquiry, oratory, and performance skills.
“Speak Truth discussions are all about becoming a better person. You learn how to collect and analyze a variety of opinions from a variety of backgrounds and sources. And these skills can teach you how to be a better community member.”
– Adena, 12th Grade Speak Truth Student Participant
What do Speak Truth Fellows do?
- Engage in a 3-day rejuvenating, relevant, and hands-on Institute August 9-11, 9AM – 3PM at a DC Location TBD (Lunch provided daily.)
- Take home an Inspired Teaching Speak Truth Guidebook and Ford’s Theatre’s classroom Oratory Posters.
- Plan and implement 3 Speak Truth seminars with your students during the 2022-2023 school year.
- Receive a $500 stipend and a certificate for 30 hours of professional learning.
- Share your practice with others through a series of optional professional development opportunities.
Space is limited and preference will be given to educators who work within Washington, DC.
Speak Truth Guidebook: A Path Toward Better Student-Led Discussions
Young people care about issues affecting them and the world around them. Their concerns don’t always line up with the curriculum, and teachers don’t always have the time, tools, or resources to explore their students’ interests. Yet we know elevating youth voices is critically important not only for students’ well-being, but for their development as problem-solvers and future leaders. The Speak Truth model presented in this Guide offers a way to bring meaningful student-led conversations into the classroom. Whether you host a Speak Truth session once a quarter, once a week, or every day, you will be creating a valuable space for learning where young voices and curiosity can grow.