Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
Amazing Shake
Inspired by the Ron Clark Academy, the Amazing Shake challenges students to perform under pressure─just like real life.
What is the Amazing Shake?
A global, high-impact leadership competition that builds:
Confidence and poise
Strong first impressions
Professional communication
Critical thinking & problem-solving
Judging Norms
Presence
Eye Contact
Handshake
Round 1
Classroom Elevator Pitch
January 5–16
- 60–90 second elevator pitch
- What is the BEST advice someone gave you?
- Winners advance
Round 2
School-Level Gauntlet
By January 22
- 5-10 real-world stations
- Community judges engaged
- Top 10 students per school advance
Round 3
Performance Area Semi-Finals
February 4-6
- 300+ students districtwide
- Real-world scenarios
- Coordinators and teachers support student prep
Round 4
CMS District Finals
February 20
- 102 students compete
- 6 CMS students selected
- Leadership, adaptability, professionalism
Round 5
Global Finals
March 27
- CMS students represented on the national stage
- Compete with peers from across the country
WHY IT MATTERS
Builds career-ready soft skills
Strengthens student confidence
Aligns academics with real-world expectations
Elevates CMS as a national leader in student growth
COMMUNITY & FAMILY CONNECTION
Parent communication - opt-out options provided
Community leaders serve as judges and mentors
Families celebrated as partners in student growth
Amazing Shake is supported by
