On Wednesday, April 3, eighth-grade students at Central Middle School got to try out their interpersonal skills in some potential real-world situations at The Amazing Shake. Started by the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, the academy’s website describes “The Amazing Shake” as “a competition that places an emphasis on teaching students manners, discipline, respect, and professional conduct.” Students are graded on their confidence, handshakes, eye contact, poise while under pressure, and charisma.
Stations included job interviews, public speaking, asking your boss for a raise, and reading a news teleprompter (which is what I helped judge and grade). A total of 15 stations were set up with students having one minute to do their best to impress. A numerical grade of 1-4 is given by the judge with 1 showing little or no attempt to 4 showing exceptional skills.
The top 10 finalists were Ella Clooten, Olivia Lindstrom, Addy Nordenstrom, Molly Bibow, Charly Black, Brynlee Wolf, Elin Skaar, Rebecca Tohm, Aralyn Hernandez-Kienast, and Addison Armstrong. The top 3 after Round 2 were Addyson Nordenstrom, Molly Bibow, and Ella Clooten. The champion, Addy Nordenstrom, was announced at the Character Counts assembly on Friday.
To all the students who participated, I say, “you all showed a good work ethic and demeanor, and you will only get better from here!”
