LAFAYE DUREN

Teach the Children. Teach the children well. Teach the children to lift their voices and speak, "Teach the children." was a charge given to me almost three decades ago as I began my teaching career. Over the years teach the children, teach the children well, teach the children to lift their voices and speak has become my philosophy.

The ability to stand before an audience and speak is very important. It helps students develop poise, dignity, and to express themselves. The opportunity to speak increases their self-esteem, assurance, and improves reading skills.

The students in my classes are expected to have a speech prepared about their experience at St. Peter Prince of the Apostles. As the year progresses, they are encouraged to make additions or deletions to their original speech. These speeches have proven helpful during Information Days when perspective students and parents visit the classroom. Catholic Schools Week is another time in the life of the academic school year in which these speeches have made a positive impact. During this week-long celebration, each class renders a skit. Each student receives a speaking  part and presents it at the school assembly or Parent-Teacher Meetings.

Students are required to speak during other occasions. They may make presentations during Hispanic Heritage Month, African-American Heritage Month, Special Days of Remembrance, current events, book reviews, or present a lesson.

The reading of classic and contemporary works of literature is another important part of the classroom life experience. Young people enjoy reading the works by the great authors and analyzing the events that transpire. Many works have to deal with the character or characters deciding which road to choose, the one traveled or less traveled. Then choosing the road or climbing a mountain, or they may ford a stream to find their dream. The objective is to instill in each young person the love of reading, the love of language, and the preparation that life is calling them to make a difference.

My professional training was completed at Our Lady of the lake University and the University of the Incarnate Word. The Sisters of the Holy Spirit, the Sisters of Divine Providence, and the Sisters of the Incarnate Word made many positive impressions on me. I watched how these dedicated women of faith improved the quality of life for many young people through art, literature, and music. These three are my areas of interest and my commitment in service to humanity.

It is an honor to be an educator. It is an honor to touch the future. It is an honor to be a member of the faculty of St. Peter' Prince of the Apostles Catholic School.

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A creative and talented musician has made St. Anthony’s jazz band synonymous with great music by young musicians.  He also teaches guitar to students at St. Anthony's as well as St. Peter's.

David is a talented musician in his own right. His jazz band performs around the country and has  several CD's out.