Lalyce Gray Basic School Dance & Sign Language Extra-Curricular Program

 Lalyce Gray Basic School - End of Year Newsletter

Dance & Sign Language Extra-Curricular Program
2025–2026 End of Year Newsletter💥

The 2025–2026 school year presented both opportunities and challenges for the Dance & Sign Language Extra-Curricular Program. As with any educational initiative, there were occasions that required patience, collaboration, and problem-solving. These experiences encouraged personal and professional growth while reinforcing the importance of effective communication among staff, parents, and students.

Despite the challenges encountered throughout the year, the program achieved many positive outcomes. Of the 23 students enrolled at the beginning of the school year (21 girls and 2 boys), 13 students successfully completed the program, representing a completion rate of 57%.

The Dance & Sign Language Program continued to provide students with opportunities for creative expression, confidence building, teamwork, communication, and community engagement. While balancing academic and extra-curricular activities can sometimes be challenging, the program remains committed to supporting the holistic development of every child by complementing classroom learning with meaningful artistic experiences.

Success is not measured solely by competition results but by growth, participation, perseverance, and the confidence students develop through their experiences. Although our students were not successful in their bids to place in the 2024 JPS Speech & Comprehension Test Competition or the 2025 JCDC Dance Competition, they represented Lalyce Gray Basic School with pride and enthusiasm in several community initiatives throughout the year.

Community Engagement Highlights

JCDC Dance Competition
Students participated in the JCDC Dance Competition video entry process, which included weekly Saturday rehearsals and two separate filming sessions at Emancipation Park. We extend sincere thanks to the parents who assisted with transportation, supervision, and logistical support to ensure students could participate fully in this valuable cultural experience.

Flip That Script Foundation (FTSF) Expo & Conference
On March 8, 2026, eight students represented the school through Dance and SignLanguage performances at the FTSF Expo and Conference held at Stony Hill HEART Academy. We are grateful to Ms. Karen McLeod and the Flip That Script Foundation for providing this opportunity for our students to showcase their talents.

Jamaica Autism Support Association (JASA)
On April 18, 2026, students from the Dance & Sign Language Program delivered their second public performance at Emancipation Park in support of JASA' Autism Month Awareness. Their presentation was warmly received and demonstrated the confidence, discipline, and skills they had developed throughout the year.

Dance In The Park (DITP) 2026
Several students participated in Dance In The Park for a second consecutive year. Parent and family support exceeded expectations and contributed significantly to the success of the event. Special thanks are extended to all parents and volunteers who provided meals, refreshments, supervision, transportation, and encouragement throughout the day.

We are particularly grateful to the families and staff members who contributed their time and resources, and to Teacher Morris for her support of the initiative. We also acknowledge Mr. and Mrs. Ross & Hunter for their participation, words of encouragement and prayers for a successful event. Their support reflected the strong sense of community that surrounds our students.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Dance In The Park was witnessing students demonstrate resilience and determination. Despite personal challenges, they participated enthusiastically and represented their school with pride.

Parent Feedback

At the end of the year, parents were asked to describe the program in one word. Their responses included:

• Vibrant
• Excellent
• Empowering
• Rewarding
• A Class
• Confidence
• Passionate
• “A Hit”

These responses reflect the positive impact the program has had on participating students and their families.

Looking Ahead

As we reflect on the achievements of this year's cohort, we are proud of the growth demonstrated by our students. Their willingness to learn, perform, communicate, and support one another has been inspiring. We are equally grateful for the unwavering support of parents, guardians, staff members, and community partners who helped make this year possible.

While there is always room for growth and improvement, the overall outcomes of the 2025–2026 school year surpassed those of the previous year. We look forward to building on this success and continuing to provide enriching opportunities that support the development of confident, creative, and capable young learners.

Thank you for being part of the Lalyce Gray Basic School Dance & Sign Language Program.

For Extra-Curricular, Residency & Personal Development Programs

Contact: Kofi Walker on 1(876) 405-2800 / 347-5322

Email: airpaasa@gmail.com