iHOPE hosted its third middle school talent show on June 4 and June 5, bringing together students, families, and staff for a joyful celebration of student strengths and creativity.
“The creative arts are extremely engaging to the students, and it’s really magical to see how they can move, what they say, and how they participate when that’s involved,” said Stefanie Gordon, an occupational therapist at the school and one of the organizers of the event. “We wanted to create something that celebrated student strengths and creativity and gave them an opportunity to share it with everyone.”
The event featured three performances across two days, with each show highlighting the talents of two classrooms.
The therapy gym was transformed into a vibrant theater space, welcoming parents, siblings, and friends to celebrate the incredible abilities of the students. Performances showcased a wide range of talents, including singing, magic, modeling, poetry reading using voice output communication devices, riding an adapted tricycle, and even everyday skills such as taking out the trash and enjoying favorite foods like pita.
Students also demonstrated creativity through activities such as clay sculpting using switch-adapted tools.
In addition to performing, students took on meaningful backstage roles, including stamping tickets with adapted equipment and distributing programs. All students had the opportunity to choose whether to perform or participate behind the scenes, with video recordings ensuring that every student’s contributions were honored and celebrated in a way that respected their comfort and preferences.
Students prepared for the show over six weeks and supported one another throughout, with peers expressing excitement and encouragement—sharing comments like, “I like that!” and “This is awesome!” The event incorporated visual descriptions to enhance accessibility and offered both traditional and silent (signed) applause to accommodate diverse sensory needs.
“Having the parents there and seeing their children up in front of people, showcasing who they are and what makes them who they are, was really special,” said Abigail Jones, a creative arts therapist at the school and co-organizer of the event alongside Gordon. “It opened up an opportunity for families to experience that with their child.”