Public speaking is said to be the number one fear in America, but that is not the case for 53 Rockdale County 4-H’ers! They have all recently competed in the 2016 4-H District Project Achievement competition or as 4-H’ers call it DPA.

DPA is the culminating event and competition for the year in 4-H; these students do a tremendous amount of work to prepare by writing speeches, making posters and practicing skills like cooking or performing arts.

Of Rockdale County’s 53 competitors, spanning grades four through 12, a total of 31 placed in the top three for their category. This year, DPA projects ranged from photography to cotton to clogging.

Specifically, fourth through sixth grade students prepared a five minute presentation on a topic of their choosing and presented it to a panel of judges in a room full of parents and peers.

Seventh through 12th grade students built on skills by preparing a 10 minute speech that was presented to a panel of judges. Additionally, they worked year-round to prepare a portfolio, which was a resume-like document that highlights their project work as well as activities in the 4-H club, community service and leadership for the previous calendar year.

DPA is a very rigorous competition and whether or not students leave with a medal, they are sure to have learned something new from the experience.  93% of the competing Rockdale County students stated that because of 4-H Project Achievement they are now more confident speaking in front of people.

Rockdale County 4-H would like to thank Snapping Shoals for sponsoring this event and making it possible for increased participation.

For more information about Rockdale County 4-H, including summer activities, contact the Rockdale County UGA Extension office at 770-278-7373 or visit 1400 Parker Road, Lobby A, Conyers, GA 30094.