Creativity. Personality. Presentation. Poise.
All these and more are on display during The CCPS Amazing Shake competition for 5th to 8th graders. Three RDC students will travel to Atlanta at the end of March to compete in the global Amazing Shake competition.
The week begins with around 120 students and judges narrow it down by half each day until 15 remain from which three finalists are chosen. The sessions are filled with thrilling, unexpected, and even crazy challenges.
It all boils down to how well students handle themselves under pressure. Eighth graders Avery Dore, Emily Howton, and Ashtyn Walters were chosen as the three finalists. Ashtyn is unable to make the trip so semifinalist Caleb Howard, 7th, was chosen to attend instead. Meet our finalists and view Amazing Shake video HERE.
“The Amazing Shake challenge truly encompasses the workforce readiness skill sets we’re trying to develop and grow in our students,” said Superintendent Dustin Howard. “From the importance of eye contact and a strong handshake to thinking on your feet, we’re teaching our students how to be successful post-graduation and in life.”
Volunteers help make the five-day event possible as they judge the rounds. Day 1 begins with the Gauntlet, which sends participants from station to station to complete tasks they don’t know in advance.
“Community involvement is absolutely essential to make the program successful,” said Coordinator Amber Murphy. “Without community members volunteering their time as judges, the program truly would not happen. Additionally, community members provide students with meaningful feedback to help improve in the future.”
This year’s challenges were purposely built around the Portrait of a Clark County Learner competencies – Empowered Leader, Effective Communicator, Resilient Learner, Reflection Innovator, Engaged Citizen, and Committed Collaborator (see graphic for a breakdown).
“Each round was paired to one specific competency with Effective Communicator being an essential part of each of the rounds,” Murphy explained.
CCPS has planned, organized, and implemented the Amazing Shake since 2018.
“The most valuable aspect of the Amazing Shake is providing students with authentic opportunities to practice their professional skills like giving a good handshake, starting conversations, thinking on their feet, and demonstrating active listening,” Ms. Murphy said. “These skills are essential no matter what job a student may have in the future.”
Amazing Shake Gauntlet photos by Carolyn Harper and Cady Johnson, GRC seniors
