By Pastor Floyd Dodson and Sharon C. Dodson, Retired Patrick County Public School Teacher
On November 19, the church, The Body of Christ transported 58 of its members to Laurel Park Middle School to witness “A lovely Day for the Holidays,” a choral concert presented by the LPMS Choir. Each musical selection was chosen to demonstrate the advancing skills of the students on a technical, cultural, and intellectual level. I, being a retired teacher, was impressed by how organized the program was despite the challenges of working with three different grade levels. The students were confident in their abilities, comfortable with their presentation, and a very talented group. It was nice to see the fluidity of the program and realize what went into developing such a cohesive and impressive performance.
As a former teacher, I was struck by the fact that this show had been successfully organized in a seemingly short period of time, from August to November. Many challenges arise when teaching and you also deal with students who each have a unique set of needs or challenges. Funding may also be an issue. Even still, you continue to help students to see their potential and find success.
The program was written and directed by the Director of the Choral Program, Larry D. Hylton. Mr. Hylton attended Henry County Public Schools until the 9th grade. He matriculated to Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, DC and graduated in 1990. Larry has been blessed to perform all around the world, being featured in the Opera “Porgy and Bess,” and spent five years singing with the Metropolitan Opera Chorus. He returned to Henry County in 2020 and began teaching in 2022. Mr. Hylton joined the team this year at Laurel Park Middle School. He was formerly the Choral Director at Bassett High School.
Our children from the church thoroughly enjoyed the event. The adults said it took them back to their childhood. Some recalled how they performed in a program similar to this one. Undoubtedly, Mr. Hylton orchestrated a production that his students can take pride in and remember always. He did a phenomenal job! The hard work and dedication that is apparent with Mr. Hylton’s leadership must make his community proud.
The students at Laurel Park Middle School are reaping the benefits of rich experiences and quality instruction. There is no reward greater than teaching and pouring into young minds, guiding their growth, and showing them the probability of a bright future with unlimited possibilities. With teachers like Mr. Hylton who want to give back, may the arts continue to flourish in our schools.
