Hear we go: Hands and Voices celebration a success in Rainbow Schools

Destiny DeCourcey and Zacharie Adam of Markstay Public School try their hand at mini-golf during the Hands and Voices celebration for students with hearing loss in Rainbow Schools.	Students Colby Hartley of Redwood Acres Public School, Alexis Kasaboski of Valley View Public School and Kayden Marcotte of Cyril Varney Public School participated in the Rainbow District School Board Hands and Voices celebration for students with hearing loss.

Rainbow District School Board hosted its ninth annual Hands and Voices celebration (previously known as Deaf Way) on Thursday, May 5, 2011. Students with hearing loss, along with Itinerant Teachers of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, gathered for a day of fun, friendship and inspiration.

With support from the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association and other generous sponsors, Rainbow District School Board invited Kris Martin to share his story of courage, passion and success at this year’s event. Kris Martin is a racecar driver with a hearing loss. He was born completely deaf and received a cochlear implant at the age of eight.

“Kris’ story parallels many of our students’ personal experiences, shared challenges and triumphs,” said Margaret Stringer, Principal of Special Education Programs and Services. “His message inspired students to be proud of who they are, to wear their assistive listening devices with confidence, to advocate for their needs and, most of all, to rise above perceived limitations and set individual goals fueled by their unique passions.”

During the event, students also had an opportunity to learn more about the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association’s Lending Library. The Lending Library helps people decide what assistive listening devices will work best for them. “It is important for our students to connect with outside agencies that will support them and advocate for them,” said Principal Stringer. “We thank the Canadian Hard of Hearing Association and the Canadian Hearing Society for the wonderful services that they offer in the community.”

The Hands and Voices celebration ended with fun activities. Students tested their own racing skills at Sudbury Kartways.  They also enjoyed a round of mini-golf.

“Students and teachers alike look forward to this event all year long,” said Principal Stringer. “Hands and Voices is a day where new friendships are formed and old acquaintances are rekindled. It is a day where sameness is treasured.”

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor,
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning,
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171, ext. 7217.