Building Confidence and Character | Second Grade Parade of Presidents Program

Each year, Second Baptist School’s second grade students bring history to life through the beloved Parade of Presidents program. This time-honored tradition is not just a performance but an experience that displays the academic growth of students and their confidence as public speakers. 

During preparation for the Parade of Presidents, “students gain an understanding of the importance of our presidents and their accomplishments,” shares Head of Lower School Rita Herring. “Memorizing and performing a speech in front of a large audience does not come easily and requires practice and confidence. I've seen the shyest of students who never thought they could stand on stage and speak learn to do so confidently.” 

“For years, this program has been a cornerstone of students’ learning,” says Lower School music teacher Sarah Long, “it is amazing to watch their progress from the time their speeches are assigned until the program. They go from reciting it to saying it with conviction!” 

Fellow teacher Julia Patino emphasizes the progress students make throughout several weeks of preparation, noting that “students not only memorize their speech but also gradually add their personality to it,” adding, “I love watching them grow into confident speakers who strive for excellence.” 
With each speech, students embrace their moment in the spotlight, delivering their lines with confidence and enthusiasm. The Parade of Presidents concludes with a moving performance of God Bless the USA as the entire class sings together. The sight and sound of their young voices uniting in song is a powerful moment, bringing tears to the eyes of audience members—a reminder of the lasting impact of this treasured tradition.

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