Plato Collegiate Academy Hosts “Amazing Handshake” Initiative
TAMPA, Fla. — In an initiative aimed at equipping students with real-world skills often overlooked in traditional education, Plato Collegiate Academy hosted its inaugural Amazing Shake competition this spring, a program designed to sharpen professionalism, communication abilities, and quick thinking among students in grades four through eight.
The event, based on the nationally recognized model developed by the Ron Clark Academy and further detailed at theamazingshake.com, placed students in a series of structured, high-pressure scenarios. Each exercise challenged participants to demonstrate skills that will serve them long after graduation: eye contact, firm handshakes, thoughtful conversation, and situational confidence.
“The Amazing Shake teaches skills that go beyond the classroom,” said one faculty member who helped organize the competition. “Students learned how to introduce themselves properly, maintain professional demeanor, and handle unexpected questions with composure.”
Throughout the multi-round event, students practiced these competencies through real-world simulations, including mock job interviews, ticket counter transactions, and public interactions that required courtesy and decisiveness.
Faculty and parents observed noticeable changes in student behavior. Staff members described students routinely greeting them with eye contact and a handshake, while parents noted more confident behavior in public settings. “You see it immediately — students opening doors for others, ordering food politely, asking for assistance without hesitation,” a teacher said. “It’s improving the atmosphere in our school hallways.”
One student participant credited the program for improving communication skills. “Before the Amazing Shake, I would get nervous talking to strangers,” the student said. “Now I can think clearly and speak confidently. These skills will stay with me for life.”
In the final round, the top 25 students faced community professionals who judged their ability to think on their feet, articulate ideas, and maintain poise under pressure. School administration emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for students to interact with adults outside their immediate circles, further developing their social and professional readiness.
Looking ahead, Plato Academy plans to expand the Amazing Shake competition to all nine campuses across the Tampa Bay region, with the ultimate goal of sending a student representative to the national Amazing Shake competition held annually in Atlanta, Georgia.
“This is not just a one-time event,” said 3rd grade teacher Ms. Escajadillo. “We intend to continue building on these lessons throughout students’ educational journeys, encouraging them to use these skills every day in school, at home, and in the community.”
The Amazing Shake at Plato Collegiate Academy has made an early impact, setting a new standard for preparing students to meet the future with confidence and professionalism.
