Eleven fourth grade students at Sinclair Elementary School participated in The Gauntlet, an event aimed at enhancing students' interpersonal skills, public speaking, and overall confidence through a series of challenging activities. 

Other schools throughout Prince William County Public Schools, including Pattie Elementary School, host The Gauntlet as well. 

“Through this competition, these students are developing skills—learning how to make eye contact, greet others, and carry on a conversation—that will help them throughout their lives,” said Rebecca Kronthal, librarian at Sinclair Elementary. 

The Gauntlet consists of several rounds, each designed to test different skills. The competition kicked off with a challenge where students mingled with judges as if at a professional function.  

Following the opening round, students participated in a rotation of challenges including a debate against a fellow student on the topic of homework in elementary school, conducting a news report where participants gave a report on a school event or topic of their choosing, and a mock job interview conducted by business executives.  

Students were scored based on their poise, eye contact, charisma, speaking ability, and quality of their answers, among other factors throughout the challenges. 

Judges scored each student on a scale, and the highest-scoring student at the end of all rounds was declared the winner of The Gauntlet: Sinclair student Eliana.  

“I think The Gauntlet is important because you can have fun and learn at the same time,” Eliana said. “You can learn debate and interview skills, communication skills, and more.” 

Second place finisher Ahmad said he learned a lot about himself during the competition. 

“My favorite part was learning to be self-confident,” Ahmad said. “This competition also taught me to be proud of myself.” 

The Gauntlet provided a unique and valuable opportunity for students to develop essential life skills in a supportive and challenging environment and was a testament to the school's commitment to fostering growth and excellence in its students.