Students not sidelined by their developmental delays

This morning’s Roundup assembly was pretty special at Edmond’s West Field Elementary School.

For the first time, the children from the developmentally delayed classes were the presenters.

Their teachers were nervous, the students were orderly on the risers, wearing Dr. Seuss hats made from red and white paper.

My son, Cade, was one of the younger students involved and was placed on the front row. 

When I came into the gym, he ran over to me to give me a hug — a couple of times. So, I had to leave and then sneak back in to sit in another location.

Friday morning “Roundup” is a gathering of all the teachers and students. They recite the Pledge of Allegiance and school creed, listen to announcements and sing songs. It’s a good way to end the week and recognize students and classes for their weekly accomplishments.

Each week, a different group of students helps to present the program.

As the students said their names and directed the gathering on what was coming next, it was moving to see their excitement, anticipation and delivery of their speaking parts.

When Cade said his name, his voice was loud and sweet. His language development is still “developing,” but you couldn’t mistake the way he proudly spoke into the microphone.

I smiled and laughed a little, giddy with the excitement of seeing my baby perform in front of a group. Then, for a moment, tears came to my eyes, a flash flood of emotions coming over me.

But I recovered and was able to enjoy this simple — but very important — moment of the day.

Afterward, the teachers were asking questions, “How did they sound? Could you hear them?” and saying, “They did such a good job!”