Communication- the key they say to happiness, healthy relationships, piece of mind and ________. (You can fill in the blank.) They also say, 'Communication is a two way street,' meaning for it to work, it must happen both ways.

One definition: "Communication is the exchange of information between people."

During the month of February, the Administrative team is busy observing and evaluating our teaching staff. In March, we each sit with our assigned staff member(s) and review their professional growth and evaluation, emphasizing a two-way conversation/dialogue about the observation recently made and student's accomplishments. We also talk about the professional's annual goals and achievements made. It is a time shared-communication is much needed. The Administrative team asks how we can assist the staff member to achieve the mission and vision of Child's Voice and help that individual make gains in their own personal goals.

In addition to this taking place, Parent Teacher Conferences are held. I find this to be a wonderful time. I so enjoy hearing the staff speak expertly about their class of students. Our staff know exactly how each one of their students learn, what motivates them, areas of difficulty and needed areas of growth. They can articulate each step of our auditory skills development curriculum (even ear specific), each level of our TASL- giving extensive examples to help clarify percentages earned for what sentence type. They can state what speech sounds each individual child is trying to master-be it in the beginning, medial or final position of words or phrases or sentences. As an overall process, it is quite overwhelming. I personally pat each staff member on the back, give thumbs up, and want them to know JOB WELL DONE!

Communication-the two way street...I want each parent, family, donor, and board member to hear about just some of the small pieces that it takes to be the best (Yes, I said the BEST!) program.

• For the parents, I ask you to communicate with us and your teacher. If you don't fully understand the madness behind our curriculum-ask; if a goal or objective isn't clear to you-ask. If you are pleased with your child's progress-communicate such. 
• For our donors and friends, we thank you for your continued support- come for a visit. You are part of 'something great.'
• For our Board of Directors, we thank you for your tireless commitment helping us to be the premier listening and spoken program.

Communication, I do agree, is the key to my peace of mind.