Classroom Speakers Information

Program Overview | How it Works | Getting Started |
Classroom Speakers FAQs | Orientation Dates

Program Overview

The UpLink Classroom Speakers program connects area educators with volunteer speakers who can share details about their professions, bring relevance to subjects being taught in classrooms, stimulate student thinking and enlighten students about a wide range of careers. Classroom lessons become more authentic when bolstered with real-world experiences of caring adults.

How It Works

Through the Classroom Speakers online database, speakers can post information about their presentations, availability and preferred age groups and school districts. Teachers can then access the database throughout the year to review speaker profiles and book speakers allowing the matching process to occur online.

Getting Started

1. Complete a Classroom Speakers application by downloading the application from the Classroom Speakers web site and submit the form at your earliest convenience.

Classroom Speakers Application (for Missouri residents)

Classroom Speakers Application (for Kansas residents)

Screening Criteria

2. Attend a Classroom Speakers orientation session. Reserve a seat at the next session by visiting the UpLink Classroom Speakers web site.

3. Post your speaking opportunity in the Classroom Speakers database. Include the topic(s) you would like to speak on, districts you would like to visit and your availability.

The Program Overview, How it Works and Getting Started sections are also available as a downloadable PDF. For more information, call 816.842.7082.

Classroom Speakers FAQs

Q: What will I do as a classroom speaker?
A: Classroom speakers visit greater Kansas City area schools to share their experiences and bring curricula to life through presentations.

Q: How many presentations would I give each year?
A: You may present as many times as you choose. Classroom speakers are required to
present a minimum of four times each year.

Q: What topics could I speak on?
A: You can speak on topics that are career-related, research-based or motivational.

Q: Where and to whom would I be speaking?
A: You can select the school districts and the grade levels to which you would like to speak.

Q: Is training provided for Classroom Speakers?
A: All classroom speakers must attend a Classroom Speakers Orientation. Orientation sessions are held regularly. Contact Kate Pankey at pankey@youthfriends.org for a list of dates and times or visit the orientation page.

Q: How do I get started in the UpLink Classroom Speakers program?
A: Please complete an UpLink Classroom Speakers application. Fax the completed form to 816.842.7907 or mail it to 1800 Baltimore, Kansas City, MO 64108.

Q: What kind of screening process is involved in the UpLink Classroom Speakers program?
A: Interested volunteers need to complete an UpLink Classroom Speakers application. Applications are used to conduct a quadruple background check on all classroom speakers. All participants must pass this background screening process.

Q: Can I participate in both UpLink Classroom Speakers and YouthFriends?
A: Yes! If you are able to volunteer as a speaker and mentor, Kansas City's youth will benefit.

These FAQs are available as a PDF.