<p>I have a different suggestion--This is what I'm doing. I'm not as much afraid of public speaking as you, but I really hate it. However, I love theater, and I have no problem performing a part. Just pretend to be someone else. Think of someone really smart and successful, in your school, community, or on TV. Maybe an administrator who speaks to the student body? Practice as that person, and go up thinking of the role you are playing. I know it sounds weird, but it works for me. Everytime I have had to give a speech, I get all stressed out (and I'm not a stressing sort of person) and shaky, but - just playing a part - that's not really me, so it doesn't matter. </p>
<p>On another note, talk to your guidance counselor about the problem, not in a "help me overcome my fear" way, but just to find out what to do to get out of giving the speech. You DO NOT have to ruin your rank, and you shouldn't just not show up if you let the school plan for you to be there giving a speech. You could probably plan a trip way in advance that makes you miss graduation (even if there isn't really a trip) and have them mail the diploma.</p>