Choosing Speakers
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| Speakers Toolkit Choosing Speakers Sample Speaker Questions Sample Thank You Letters |
Before having someone speak in your class, do some preliminary screening. This is especially important when someone volunteers his or her services without having been trained or sponsored by an organization you know. Discuss the person's background as it relates to the subject area and whether he or she has previously addressed a school audience. If the person is unknown to you, it is appropriate to ask for a resume and a personal reference. Perhaps your school has a staff member, such as a career development coordinator, who can help you recruit effective guest speakers. Many civic organizations like the nonpartisan League of Women Voters* have recommended guest speakers or could help lead you to them.**
Veteran Bob Isenberg responds to a question regarding his Vietnam experience.
*Find the League of Women Voters on the web at www.lwv.org, or call the LWV chapter in your state.
**For more information on the Community-in-the-Classroom model, visit the CIC website located at www.wcpss.net/community_in_the_classroom/
A list of contacts for possible speakers is available in the VVMF's Echoes from the Wall Teacher's Guide on page 82.
The North Carolina Vietnam Veterans, Inc. has developed an excellent speaker program for North Carolina teachers. See Resources.