“Voice” is a good subject for this time of the academic year. As the end of school nears, I am acutely aware of several situations brought about by the use of the voice. Added to the excitement of thoughts about summer vacation is the battering of the emotions by one storm front after another here in tornado alley! Many of our staff are now experiencing a loss of their voices due to the hyperactivity of the students, the pollen in the air, and the moisture which ushers in yet another cold front!
“Voice” also comes to my mind as we are in the middle of interviewing prospective students for the new year. With a family of owners, each with distinctive personalities, it is most important that we speak with one “voice” concerning our mission, goals, standard operating procedures, etc.
Our faculty members who have been with us for a good length of time are also watching to see that their “voice” is consistent with ours. Only when we are united in purpose will success be attainable. People will trust us if we do not send mixed messages and if we stay true to our word. Trust is a valuable asset.
“Voice” can also be a factor in getting students to believe in themselves. Our tone of voice can convince our students to take risks, to reach for new goals, and to rise to the top of any endeavor. We are, if you will, “cheerleaders” for our students. It is through our positive and upbeat dialogue with our students that trepidation is erased and replaced with faith and hope and a willingness to try to reach new plateaus.
As my first grade students have grown and become very good readers, they are now working on the skills of “voice” in their oral reading. Fluency is so important for understanding and comprehending what is being read. But fluency is also desired by listeners so they may better enjoy the story being read. Parents who have faithfully read “to” and “with” their young children this year, have given them a tremendous foundation for future reading with understanding.
Dr. Seuss wrote a book called Horton Hears a Who which causes the reader to become aware of unseen and often overlooked “small things” in life. Lawton Academy is like that. We keep a soft voice, not seeking to be heard over the media with expansive and exhausting news releases. We use our voice to inform our parents and friends of the great happenings within our school. It is the voice of our students and parents who have caused others to hear the “voice” of our school. In the end, I think that is how it should be…let the students themselves become the voice of Lawton Academy’s success stories and accomplishments!
- Kay