Commotion in the halls of any high school is ordinary, but for Heartland Lutheran High School, it is all for something big.
"I hope they take away the experience of competition, and the life skills they get from presenting in front of judges and peers," said Beth Leech, speech team coach.
Nine members of the speech team will be sending four events to the state speech conference this year at UNK. Students say they are taking away a lifelong benefit from the experience.
"I think speaking in public is a good thing to have, and I am happy that I am doing this while I am young," shared Ciera Fergen, student.
Having the experience now is not only beneficial to these students as teenagers, but it may continue to benefit them as they venture into their careers.
"This was my first year doing something like this, and it was fun. I guess I could do it as a career if I wanted to; maybe something in broadcasting," spoke Chris Warneke, student.
Students are able to perform in pairs or singles with pieces ranging form humorous prose to informative speaking. Either way, they will eventually strive to take the long shot of speaking in front of thousands.
"I did my first individual event, which was terrifying, but getting over that fear was really good. I feel a lot more confident now speaking in front of people," shared Hannah Niemeier, student.
Though there are judges in the speech conference some students are unphased.
"I just think that as long as you are giving your full potential, and doing the best you can, you are a winner," said Fergen.
