Okay, I'll have to see if they have Toastmasters in my area. To be honest, though, just joining a group would cause a lot of anxiety in and of itself. But, I know that's what I need to do

You're right that I won't be speaking to a hostile crowd. This is really weird, but I always get more nervous in front of people who I know respect me and understand my nervousness. I have had a few meetings with disgruntled parents over the years but have been completely at ease with them. One of my strengths is in calming down upset people and showing them that I care by trying to understand where the problem lies. I really don't understand myself???

Thanks xd42!