Public speaking skills for real life
A free, local public speaking program for middle school students in grades 6–8 at the Naperville Public Library.
Why First Voice Academy?
In an AI-driven world, communication, storytelling, and leadership matter more than ever. Students who can confidently express their ideas stand out in school, in relationships, and in the future.
First Voice Academy gives middle school students structured, low-stakes practice before the pressure of high school begins.
“Strong communication skills will be the key to success in the AI-driven future.”— Harvard Business Review
“You can improve your value by 50 percent just by learning communication skills — public speaking.”— Warren Buffett
A simple path for growth
Practical skills. Supportive coaching. A real speech.
Confidence-building and public speaking basics. Students get comfortable speaking in pairs, small groups, and in front of the room.
Students learn one simple, repeatable structure: Hook → Message → Close. They build a full outline and deliver a structured 90-second talk with peer feedback.
Final breakout rehearsals with instructor coaching, then every student delivers an original 1–2 minute speech to the full group.
2026 pilot results
In just three days, 16 middle school students found their voices — and used them.
Every one of the 16 students in the inaugural cohort delivered an original speech at the final showcase. Confidence results reflect the 14 students who completed both the Day 1 and Day 3 surveys.
Real students. Real feedback.
Feedback from the 2026 pilot cohort.
“It helped me so much, to speak.”— Student, Grade 6
“You learn to use your voice with confidence, and you get to make your own presentations.”— Student, Grade 6
“It was super fun and we learn a lot. Totally worth it.”— Student, Grade 6
Moments that matter
Students practicing, learning, and supporting each other.
A trusted community partner
The Naperville Public Library is a trusted, neutral, accessible community space that families already know. Hosting First Voice Academy at the 95th Street branch removed cost and travel barriers and gave the program a home that families already trusted.
Naperville Public Library • 95th Street branch
About the founder
Founder & Director, First Voice Academy
Hadley founded First Voice Academy after growing through public speaking, DECA, library leadership, and practice. She wanted to help younger students gain confidence earlier — and create a supportive space where every middle school student can find their voice.
Hadley is a Naperville North High School Class of 2027 student, an Illinois DECA State Champion, a Notre Dame Summer Scholars Speech & Debate participant, and the student representative on the Naperville Public Library Board.
Learn your voice → Use your voice → Help others find theirs.
First Voice Academy
Get updates about future programs and opportunities.