FAQS

How is the PSFT program different from other youth public speaking offerings?. . .

Our founder, NaTishia Aromire, has been in the speaking industry for 25+ years. She is passionate and committed to empowering young speakers. Her methodologies and programming were built for youth, NOT an adult program that is “customized” for youth. Additionally, PSFT coaches are also passionate and skilled to coach youth, which is a different set of skills than coaching adults. PSFT establishes a partnership with both speaker and family. We focus on skill development not just completing 10 speeches and moving on. So, we nurture every voice and build rapport with each student speaker ( we get to know your child) to provide the right support not just in our class but outside of class and beyond.

Do you offer in person classes?. . .

Yes, we offer both Online and In Person programs. Our In person Summer Camps or Micro Camps are held around the country. International programs are also available.

How many times can my child attend sessions per week and what is optimal?. . .

The amount of coaching sessions per week depends on the specific PSFT membership families join. Current memberships offer up to 4, 8 or 12 sessions per billing cycle. The optimal amount of coaching per week again depends on the membership, but in general 2 days per week is most popular.

Membership is up to your # of sessions. We encourage all students to attend up to the maximum amount of sessions within their membership, however payment is the same if sessions are not maximized. We are not a pay per group session program.

How do you handle make-up sessions?. . .

Make-ups are NOT automatic. Approved Make-ups must be scheduled ahead of time by emailing info@publicspeakingforteens.com. Make-ups are only available by attending the session-level during another day and/or time, based on available openings during the same billing cycle. If you do not attend and/or cancel an approved scheduled make-up, you forfeit that makeup session. Make-Ups are not carried over to the next billing cycle, no refunds or credits will be given for any missed sessions.

What is the best PSFT program for my child?. . .

The best programming for your teen depends on their goals, and yours. The only way to determine the best fit is to contact us and book a Trial Session. After the trial, the PSFT staff will discuss our recommendations for the most appropriate programs for your teen.

How will I know if my child is progressing?. . .

After each session you will have access to our coaches' notes to stay abreast of progress. Students are also provided progress reports. We do not provide grades, we provide qualitative feedback and recommendations. Parent meetings are available upon request.

How are the classes divided?. . .

Groups are skill based. Although we work collaboratively, each speaker is assessed and grouped as best as we can around demonstrated skills. We reserve the right to adjust groups based on the best fit and learning environment. We want everyone to succeed.

How many students are in a class?. . .

Enrollment Minimum and Limits: All group classes have enrollment minimum and limits as listed in program descriptions. Public Speaking for Teens (PSFT) reserves the right to cancel classes in the event the minimum number of (3) students for the class is not reached. PSFT may also cancel classes in the event of an emergency such as illness, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances. Any canceled class may be rescheduled, should the Instructor and space be available.

What will my child need for online class?. . .

• Computer with reliable Internet access
• Zoom Connection: with camera & microphone ON
• Space rid of any distractions
• Student Contact : Email or Cell Number
• Notebook/paper, and writing utensil.

Note: Siblings must utilize separate computers and space if they are attending the same sessions.

Can siblings be in the same sessions?. . .

Each speaker is assessed individually. Siblings may not be recommended into the same programs or session times.

How does scheduling work?. . .

PSFT offers a 1-hour program at least once a day and usually multiple times per day. Since most speakers attend 2 sessions per week, this schedule provides the maximum flexibility for your busy schedule. We even offer Saturday classes . Scheduling is done online through our Mobile App or Direct Schedule Link. Parents and students are responsible for scheduling and cancelling sessions.

Wait List**

A class is closed when the maximum number of participants are enrolled in that specific class. If you attempt to enroll in a class that has closed, you will be placed on a waiting list and notified as soon as a spot opens or another session is formed.

What happens when there is only one student in the session?. . .

Sessions may be canceled combined, or rescheduled if minimum group attendance is not met.

How long is the program?. . .

We have a rolling enrollment. We provide classess all year round. Students may join at any time. We also offer Summer Camps

Do you have classes for grades below 4th grade?. . .

We currently provide sessions for grades 4th-12th. We can accommodate grades below 4th grade, if we have enough students for a group. ( 4 or more) Contact us to discuss 973-841-7181 or info@publicspeakingforteens.com0

Do you provide services for new college students?. . .

Yes. Contact us to discuss details 973-841-7181 or info@publicspeakingforteens.com

Should my child do private coaching or group coaching?. . .

We offer both group and private trial sessions. During or after your trial we will discuss what may be the best option for your child. It may vary depending on skills and progression.

Do you offer any competitions? . . .

Through our SpeakOUT program, students may have an opportunity to participate in Speech and Debate, Toastmasters competitions, Model UN Conferences, and Fine ARTS competitions.

How much does it cost? See Pricing for details.. . .

PSFT has a variety of pricing offerings to fit into any budget. We offer monthly options. based on what works best for your situation, as well as flexibility to “Pause” PSFT membership during your sports season or just need to take a break.

How are memberships billed?. . .

Auto- Renewal Memberships purchased are billed within a 30 day cycle. Your selected payment method will be charged automatically on a recurring 30 day cycle starting from the first day of your registration. Your subscription will be renewed automatically, and you will be charged in advance of each billing cycle unless you pause or cancel membership. All memberships are listed and charged in US Dollars

Special Promotions We may occasionally offer promotions with terms outside our standard monthly membership subscription. The specific terms of each promotion are stated at the time the promotion is offered. At the end of the promotion, your subscription will automatically renew at the rates displayed at the time of purchase.

Can my children share a membership and split the sessions between them?. . .

Memberships are Per Student. Siblings do not share membership and they do not share sessions. Each student is enrolled in their own membership.

Can I cancel my membership?. . .

As commitments to programming are made in advance of our sessions, we require a 30 day advance notification. A late notification fee will apply. An early membership cacellation fee applies if cancelled before 3 month plan. There are NO refunds for cancelled Private Coaching and Summer programs.

Can I pause my membership if our schedule changes?. . .

Yes, you may “Pause” membership for up to 3 months. If you choose to cancel, please provide 30 day notification to avoid associated fees

Do you offer any discounts?. . .

Yes. Depends on the Membership Level or Package you select. See Pricing

How long will it take to see results?. . .

Progression varies. Much depends on the effort your speaker puts into the program. Often speakers who come 2 – 3 times per week and are engaged in the sessions will feel and see immediate progression. In most situations, you will begin seeing progression after 12 sessions. If you ever question your speakers progress, the PSFT staff will be happy to conduct an updated assessment.

Will my child miss anything if they miss a week?. . .

We provide a family login portal for students to receive any weekly assignments, updates and information missed.

Do you provide assessment and progress reports?. . .

Yes. A pre-assessment is required for every speaker who enters the PSFT program to identify the appropriate program that fits the speaker's needs. Once enrolled, speakers will receive ongoing assessments measuring progress. Parent/Coach chats are available. Based on their program, speakers will deliver a variety of presentations, demonstrating proficiency in public speaking as measured on a rubric based on the Competent Speaker Speech Performance Evaluation.