Program Goals
Orator Academy’s Confident Communicators program is an 8-week after-school enrichment program designed specifically for elementary students. Each session blends instruction, interactive activities, and practice time so students can apply what they’re learning right away. From icebreakers and storytelling to kid-friendly debates and a final showcase, the program helps children discover their voice and enjoy being heard.
Why This Program Matters – For Students and Schools
8-Week Curriculum Overview
Getting to Know “You” & Icebreaker Games
- Fun introductions and confidence-building speaking games
- Discovering unique styles and personalities
- Basics of posture, eye contact, and voice projection
The E(ase) of Communication
- Enunciation, emotion, and expression
- Energy and enthusiasm as tools for engaging an audience
Descriptive & Storytelling Skills
- Structuring a compelling story with a clear beginning, middle, and end
- Using expressive details and imagination to stand out
Verbal & Non-Verbal Expression
- Using gestures, facial expressions, and tone
- Aligning body language and words for stronger impact
Persuasive Power
- Basics of persuasive speaking for young learners
- Light debates on kid-friendly, age-appropriate topics
Speech Prep & Rehearsal
- Guided support to create a short personal speech or story
- Emphasis on clarity, creativity, and confidence
Interview Practice & Active Listening
- Partner activities to practice asking questions and listening
- Students “interview” a peer and present what they learned
Final Showcase!
Students present in front of peers, parents, or invited guests
Certificates and celebration of each student’s progress
Program Logistics at a Glance
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Session Length: 45–60 minutes per session
- Group Size: Max 10–12 students per class
- Location: On-site at your elementary school (e.g., Riker Hill Elementary School)
- Materials: All handouts included
- Instructor: Led by Vineeta Khanna, Founder of Orator Academy
We coordinate closely with your school’s schedule and enrichment calendar to ensure smooth setup and communication with familie
Investment & Partnership Options
We offer a simple, transparent flat-fee structure so schools and parent groups can plan with clarity.
Standard Group (Up to 10 Students)
- 8-week program
- Up to 10 students
- Additional students: $200 per student
- Travel and admin fees included
Small Group (Up to 5 Students)
- 8-week program
- Up to 5 students
- Travel and admin fees included
- –
Orator Academy is happy to partner with your school on registration, promotion, and logistics. We can provide program descriptions, flyers, and email copy to make enrollment simple for families.
About Orator Academy
Orator Academy empowers students to find their voice, develop strong communication skills, and build self-confidence through structured coaching and experiential learning. Our programs are age-appropriate, interactive, and rooted in the belief that every child has a unique story worth sharing. We specialize in working with students from diverse backgrounds and helping them grow into confident speakers—on stage, in the classroom, and beyond.
Meet Your Instructor: Vineeta Khanna
Vineeta Khanna, founder of Orator Academy, has helped hundreds of students and professionals—from elementary schoolers to executives—become confident and authentic speakers. With over 15 years of experience hosting a popular South Asian radio show and guest features on NPR New York and Philadelphia, she is a celebrated communicator and community leader.
She made history as the first South Asian elected to public office in Livingston Township, serving as President of the Board of Education and Vice Chair of the Zoning Board of Adjustment. Her contributions have been recognized through the Essex County AAPI Heritage Month honor, the “Sammaan” Award by Sanskriti of NJ, and the declaration of May 29, 2024, as “Vineeta Khanna Day” in Livingston.
Vineeta leads with the belief: “Be the change you wish to see.”
