Reflection # 2: Revealed Treasures

This past week brought many surprises at both La Casa de Don Pedro and Ridge. I learned about three students' hidden talents, and seeing this side of them gave me a wonderful feeling. At La Casa, I met Destiny, an amazing dancer. I truly believe this little girl was born to be a dancer, and I hope she has the opportunity to display her talents throughout her childhood. At Ridge, Lucy and Stephanie belted out a few songs for me. These are best friends who love playing musical chairs and making bracelets, but I had no idea they have such a love for music.

I never would have had the opportunity to meet Destiny had she not stayed at La Casa while her class went on a field trip. Her brother is in my classroom, and she joined us that day. It was interesting to see this brother and sister interact. They are close in age, and it made me think about times when my brother and I attended camp together. After Sherry's finance lesson and my read aloud, Ms. Norma put on some music so the kids could dance. One of the teens in the room obviously knows Destiny and encouraged her to show her dance moves. Octavio posted the video of her dancing, and I encourage you all to take a look.

When I got home that evening, I thought about Destiny and how she must take dance classes somewhere. I wanted to learn more about her and why she loves to dance. The next morning, I saw her sitting downstairs waiting for her teacher to take her class up to their room. I went over and asked is she takes classes and she told me no. I was shocked! She has natural talent, and I know that the applause she received when she finished her dance made her feel good. I told her she has to perform for the talent show next month. Everyone should see what she can do.

Lucy and Stephanie are rising 5th graders. They are at that stage where they are not quite preteens, but they are moving beyond the interests of 3rd and 4th graders. Late one afternoon when the heat had become particularly oppressive and we were riding the wave of short competitions that the students were enthralled with, Lucy and Stephanie asked if we could hold a singing competition. They did not perform in front of all the students, but they seemed to have no apprehension about singing in front of the handful of people who were around. They each passionately recited the lyrics to a few songs they love and have memorized. Lucy has a nice voice that could be really strong if she learns how to use it. I need to ask her if she sings in a choir, or ever has the opportunity to sing in front of an audience.

I do not remember there being a forum to perform or engage in activities that I loved while in elementary school, other than the occasional talent show or school play.  These were occasions that were viewed as special "fun days;" they were few and far between, and there was definitely no sense that they should be the part of every day. Students' talents and passions should be nurtured, especially in school. I know there are many ways to incorporate them into lessons, and I want to learn how to think outside of the box and do that. I'm sure that having those opportunities can make all the difference for some children.