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Impact Presentation Team Criteria

The Impact Presentation Team represents our team during the Impact Award presentation and interview process. The group tells the story of our team's work, explains the difference that work has made, and responds thoughtfully to judges' questions.

The team consists of four students supported by an Impact Mentor. Students work together to write, practice, and deliver the presentation. The goal is not simply to memorize a speech. Presenters must understand the team's programs and impact well enough to explain them naturally, accurately, and enthusiastically.

Qualities We Look For

The qualities below are listed in order of importance. Public-speaking experience is helpful, but it is not required. Commitment, teamwork, and willingness to improve matter more than being a polished speaker on the first day.

1. Maturity​

  • Understands that the presentation represents the work of the entire team.
  • Can be trusted with deadlines, preparation, and accurate information.
  • Remains composed when speaking under pressure or answering an unexpected question.
  • Takes responsibility for mistakes and works to correct them.

2. Communication​

  • Speaks clearly and in a way that sounds natural rather than rushed or memorized.
  • Listens carefully to teammates, mentors, and judges.
  • Explains detailed information in language that is easy to understand.
  • Gives useful feedback and receives feedback without becoming defensive.

3. Respect​

  • Represents the team with Gracious Professionalism.
  • Values the work of everyone including students, mentors, sponsors, the school, and community partners involved in the team's impact.
  • Does not exaggerate personal contributions or dismiss the work of others.
  • Treats others with respect, including judges, volunteers, teammates, and other teams.

4. Teamwork​

  • Builds a presentation in which all members support one another.
  • Shares speaking opportunities and attention rather than competing for the spotlight.
  • Helps teammates recover if someone forgets a line or struggles with a question.
  • Practices as part of the group and contributes to work behind the scenes.

5. Humility and Coachability​

  • Accepts repeated feedback on writing, delivery, posture, timing, and interview responses.
  • Is willing to revise or give up a preferred idea when it does not serve the team's presentation.
  • Focuses on telling the team's story rather than seeking personal recognition.
  • Recognizes gaps in knowledge and takes the initiative to learn more.

6. Dedication​

  • Attends meetings, and competitions consistently and on time.
  • Meets deadlines and remains committed through multiple revisions.
  • Is available for additional rehearsals as competition approaches.
  • Is willing to practice and research outside normal meeting hours when necessary.

7. Knowledge​

  • Understands the team's history, programs, partnerships, goals, and measurable impact.
  • Can explain personal experiences honestly while also speaking about the team's broader work.
  • Learns the current Impact Award requirements and presentation rules.
  • Answers questions accurately and is comfortable admitting when they do not know an answer.

Selection Process

TBD

Expectations After Selection

Students selected for the Impact Presentation Team are expected to:

  • Attend all required planning sessions, rehearsals, mock interviews, and competition activities.
  • Learn the entire presentation and its supporting information, not only their own lines.
  • Practice independently and arrive prepared for team rehearsals.
  • Help research facts, verify claims, revise the script, and prepare supporting materials.
  • Speak honestly and accurately; team impact should never be exaggerated or invented.
  • Meet presentation time limits and follow all current competition rules.
  • Respond to judges' questions as a team, without interrupting or competing with one another.
  • Accept changes to speaking parts or responsibilities when they improve the presentation or support team needs.
  • Maintain a grade of C or higher in every class. Students who are struggling in a class should speak with a mentor as early as possible; the mentors will do their best to connect them with help and support. Students should also communicate early if school or personal responsibilities affect their availability.
  • Support the team's Impact work throughout the year, not only during the award presentation.

Team membership and speaking assignments may change if competition rules, team needs, student availability, preparation, or conduct require it. Mentors will communicate concerns and provide feedback whenever practical.

Timeline

The Impact Presentation Team is responsible for creating all presentation material for the award. The team has strict deadlines for the creation of this material listed below.

  • Weekly Fall meetings to review and prepare for upcoming season
  • Rough Draft of Essay and Questions due by Kickoff
    • If not finished, no submission for this season
  • First round of Mentor Feedback - Following Saturday meeting
  • Build Season weekly meetings to review and start script
  • Script and Poster must be completed 3 weeks before first competition
  • Must have a plan for the impact video 3 weeks before first competition
    • No plan at this point, no video for that competition
  • Video must be finished 1 week before first competition
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