The power of optimism filled the Pine Mountain Middle School auditorium as students from across the Cobb County School District gathered to share heartfelt and inspiring stories during the annual Cobb Schools Oratorical Contest, sponsored by the Optimist Club. 

This year’s theme, “How Optimism Has Guided Me Through Trying Times,” allowed students to reflect on personal challenges and celebrate how a positive outlook helped them persevere. 

Proud educators and parents filled the audience, moved by the students’ heartfelt stories of perseverance, growth, and the guiding light of optimism.

Chloe Parker, a 10th grader at Kennesaw Mountain High School (KMHS), earned 1st place with her compelling message of determination and growth. 

“Over the years, as I grew up, I would grow frustrated or upset by the challenges and classes I had to take to overcome the hardships of reading, writing, and speech,” Chloe shared. “But with the guidance of those closest to me, along with my DHH and speech teachers, I was able to overcome and grow.” 

Her message encouraged others to turn flaws into stepping stones and boldly pursue their dreams: 

“Through all the noise and voices, here’s a tip to remember—the only person who has the power to decide which path and dream you take is you,” she declared. 

Chloe’s classmate at KMHS, McKenzie Arnold, placed as the oral runner-up, offering wisdom and encouragement to anyone facing adversity. “Obstacles only build resilience,” she said. “So never let setbacks defeat you—just allow them to get you ready for a major comeback!” 

Drawing on inspiration from Maya Angelou, McKenzie reminded the audience that no matter how tough the moment, every storm eventually passes. “‘EVERY storm runs out of rain.’ If EVERY storm runs out of rain, that means that your storm will too, so....“‘Just - Keep – Swimming,” McKenzie encouraged. 

In the American Sign Language (ASL) category, KMHS 9th grader Regina Richmond took 1st place with her moving reflection on resilience. 

“All of the challenges in my life have forced me to become a little better every day,” she signed. “I found a strength I have that I did not know I had.” Her message was simple and powerful: “I just turn negative experiences into positive ones.” 

7th grader Jerriah Stevenson, the ASL runner-up, offered a powerful testimony of personal transformation. Reflecting on her behavior and struggles during 6th grade, the Pine Mountain Middle School student described how she turned her attitude around by 7th grade. 

Now, he wants help from his teachers and to focus on learning. His speech showcased how a mindset shift and support from educators helped him improve academically and socially and ultimately embrace optimism as a guide for a brighter future. 

The Cobb Schools Oratorical Contest, now an inspiring tradition, is part of the national Optimist International Oratorical program. This program provides students with the opportunity to compete for college scholarships while developing communication and leadership skills. Students prepare and present speeches that address the annual theme, challenging them to think deeply, speak boldly, and share their personal journeys of growth and hope.