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The hallmark of a good teacher is one
who possesses an in-depth knowledge of the subject they teach,
enthusiasm for the information, good classroom management, and of
course, care and concern for the well being of the students. But
excellent teachers are those who posses all these qualities and change
lives. At Cypress Heights Academy, one teacher in particular has
successfully flipped a switch within the hearts of the students,
exciting them to excel in ways parents and administrators alike didn't
know were possible. Mr. Burges, our young, energetic, and talented music
teacher has engendered a love for music within the walls of CHA. He has
changed our kids-for the better.
As I watched
the annual Christmas play recently, I marveled at what I saw. Boys and
girls alike belted out the words to songs, proudly shimmying their
shoulders and waving their hands as they went. My own typically quiet
and reflective child confidently sang her heart out for all to hear.
Every student participated in the Christmas pageant and they
enjoyed it (at least they looked as if they did).
Kids of all caliber snagged roles and strutted their stuff across the
stage--cool kids, kids that struggle academically, talented kids, shy
kids, and bold kids. There was a spot for everyone and Mr. Burges found
it for him or her. Since he knows the students so well, he tailored
special roles for certain students. He even created a part for a
talented gymnast, enabling the boy to wow the crowds with flips and
jumps across the stage.
"I've never heard some of those kids speak and he got them to sing," one
parent exclaimed after the show. "That child struggles academically but
did you see him dance," I asked my husband. "The program was darling," a
visitor confided to me. "I've never seen anything like it." Another
parent shared, "I want my child to audition for a role next year! With a
little encouragement, I know they would be great!" These honest and
heartfelt reactions from parents and visitors illustrate what Mr. Burges
inspired in the students of CHA.
Many weeks of hard work lead to this big event. In September, I received
music cds copied by Mr. Burges prompting me to reinforce the songs my
kids learned at school. For months, my children have been singing the
Christmas songs they now know by heart. When the students auditioned for
parts, it was big discussion both amongst the parents and the kids. And
then there were the costumes! A great deal of time, thought, energy and
money went into those fabulous ensembles.
There was certainly an atmosphere of excitement generated by "The
Best Christmas Pageant Ever" and it was due to the efforts of Mr.
Burges, the music teacher. He laboriously worked with handpicked
students, choreographing dance routines and teaching music. He coached,
he encouraged, and he solicited help from generous parents. He made sure
all were involved in a positive way. I was blown away with the results.
Before the actual performance, I observed him at the dress rehearsal. As
a former educator myself, I know how exhausting and patience-trying it
is to organize events such as these. But Mr. Burges was nothing but calm
and collected. As the kids sang a bit off key and shimmied awkwardly
across the stage, he was not flustered or sharp with his words. He was
expectant, but patient. His hard work paid off.
One of the performances showcased a song and dance by three middle
school boys. It was obvious these kids felt a bit out of their element
in carrying out the requested task. Yet, they entertained the crowd and
performed with grace. Upon the completion of this particular act, Mr.
Burges jumped to his feet, yelling and applauding with grand approval. I
was moved to tears by his display. The success of his students was his
success. This is the sign of a master teacher and we are blessed he is
one of many at CHA.
by Mrs. Colleen Duggan
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