12th ANNUAL RISING VOICES CENTERSTAGE ORATORY CENTERSTAGE 2026

What is Rising Voices (RV)?

Rising Voices is our biggest student event of the year! Students from 4th, 5th, and Middle School SWP classes have an opportunity to share their Passion Pieces one last time in front of a crowd of their peers, family, and community members. Students register their speeches and are divided into Preliminary Competition rooms. Their speeches and performances are scored by panel of public speaking experts and education advocates, and the top scores are invited to our Centerstage Showcase in July!

Even if students don't "win", we encourage them to participate as a way of learning from their peers, hearing new Passion Pieces, and celebrating all things Youth Choice and Youth Voice! The Preliminary day also includes great SWP swag, snacks, and a free Photo Booth for families.

We encourage all members of our community to VOLUNTEER! We are looking for an energetic welcoming committee, passionate speech coaches, and friendly judges. Follow this link to share your interest.

What is Speak With Purpose (SWP)?

Speak With Purpose (SWP) exists to create inclusive, dynamic learning spaces, in public school classrooms throughout King County, where young scholars are empowered to challenge dominant narratives and reclaim their voices. Through the art of public speaking, our students uplift their cultures, assert self-authored identities, and advocate for the communities they call home.

In a world where student voices — particularly those from historically marginalized communities — are often silenced or overlooked, SWP centers youth as truth-tellers, change-makers, and visionaries. We partner with educators to reimagine classroom learning by rooting instruction in student agency, collective care, and creative expression. Together, we nurture brilliance, imagination, and courageous leadership.

Our Focus:
• Public speaking integrated with performing arts, creative writing, and presentation skills
• Grades 4–8
• Student advocacy and self-empowerment
• Counter-storytelling and narrative justice
• Culturally specific and responsive learning

Support Rising Voices