American Legion Oratory

I went to a American Legion Oratory contest last night and they had two girls show up out of Six that supposedly signed up. The local contest paid the winner 400 dollars and 2nd place 2oo dollars. The fact that 2 of the six showed up is amazing but I do not think our high schools turn out quality people that are willing to study. There is a few weakness's is what our high schools turn out. I do not know how much time was put in on the preparation. There is some weakness mainly the people can not use notes and have to memorize their speech. So if a person cannot memorize all the facts it does make it rough. What I am writing about mainly is the fact that public schools will not help promote this type of activity. It always reminds of the difference between Catholic schools and public school. Public schools need some drastic changes mainly the teachers and their training. The difference is one thing- This project was involved in the neighborhood association that required an essay - I do not recall the subject I think that it was on the constitution also but it does not make any difference, the principal told the students that they had to do it where in the public schools they do not have to do anything. I understand in Chicago and Cincinatti they are starting to change the way public schools are run. I understand the teachers can be fired if the students do not learn. The point that I am trying to make is that projects like the American legion gives the student knowledge and independent preparation that would help our public school system. It always amazes me how public school teachers anda consoulers refuse to work or even let the students that project like the Oratory contest exist. enough words probably no will read this it still gets it off my mind. The teachers keep wanting more money but will they do anything that will honestly really help the student regardless of the grade involved. Don