Civil Discourse Project

Ronald Reagan Oratory Competition

Open to students in grades 2 through 12, the Ronald Reagan Oratory Competition is a free opportunity to build public speaking skills and foster civic engagement. This exciting program brings President Reagan's words to life through today's youth. The 2026 competition opens September 14.

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Competition Details

THE 2026 COMPETITION WILL OPEN SEPTEMBER 14.

Two Ways to Participate

This year, students can join in a way that fits their grade level. Younger students explore President Reagan's words through creativity and reflection, while older students step up to the microphone and channel his distinctive speaking style.

Art + Reflection (Grades 2–5)

Our newest category invites younger students to discover President Reagan's speech and America 250 through their own creative lens. This course guides you every step of the way. Participants will learn about America 250 and President Reagan's speech, watch videos to discover the meaning behind this year's theme, create an original piece of artwork inspired by the speech, record a short video explaining their artistic choices, and submit both their artwork and video. It's a hands-on way to connect with history, express your ideas, and share what President Reagan's words mean to you.

Middle School Oratory Competition (Grades 6–8)

Students deliver President Reagan’s words in their own voice, focusing on presentation, expression, and public speaking skills. Participants will record their presentation and submit it through the Learning Management System.

High School Oratory Competition + Reflection (Grades 9–12)

Students deliver President Reagan’s words in their own voice and also complete a reflection piece that connects the speech’s themes to their own ideas, experiences, or understanding of America’s story. Participants will submit both their recorded presentation and written reflection through the Learning Management System.

Whether you pick up a paintbrush or step up to speak, this is your chance to explore President Reagan's legacy, sharpen your skills, and celebrate 250 years of America. We can't wait to see what you create.

Prizes

Elementary School Students (2nd-5th): Selected artwork will be featured on the Reagan Foundation's website and social media channels, giving young artists the chance to share their creativity with our national community.
Middle School Students (6th-8th): The top 3 winners will receive a trip to the Reagan Library for the Finals on July 22-24 with flights and accommodations covered, along with a discount on future Reagan Education Programs.
High School Students (9th-12th): The top 3 winners will receive a trip to the Reagan Library for the Finals on July 22-24 with flights and accommodations covered, along with a discount on future Reagan Education Programs.

How To Participate

FREE participation in 3 easy steps:

Click on the link below to enroll and create an account for each individual entry
Create a username and password
Complete all required sections

More About The Competition

The Championship round will be held on July 23 at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Southern California
Participants are provided excerpts of address given by President Reagan, selected by the Reagan Foundation.
Students can read from the script/notecards-just as President Reagan used-and focus on emulating his distinctive speaking style.
Students will record their presentation and submit through our Learning Management System (LMS).