Kingsway Academy School's elementary choir and drumline performs during the Eastern Community Spring Festival. (Photo: Kingsway Academy)

Thirteen years after becoming a member of faculty at Kingsway Academy, the students impacted by the school's music teacher and choir director, Francyss Pratt, reunited to say "thank you" to the educator who has recently retired.

More than 70 current and former elementary choir students came together to show appreciation to Pratt.

Former student Ralph Curry who could not attend the reunion sent a voice note singing Pratt's favorite song, "Order My Steps," as well as a recording of himself as he led his church in praise and worship.

"Miss Pratt gave me the confidence to sing in front of people. I'm grateful to her for that," said Curry.

Erin Musgrove, another former student, described Pratt as a gem.

"It's been about 10 years since I had her as a teacher/choir director, but her influence continues to impact me. I have since sung in many choirs, as well as sung solos, and am so thankful to her for helping to nurture my talent."

In 2003 Pratt met a music program in place at the school with the seasonal Christmas and spring productions. The recent Fisk University graduate recalled being challenged to take it up a notch. She did.

Under her tutelage and guidance, the choir grew and practiced year round, which meant that they were ready for whenever the school needed a musical selection -- whether at national pride festivities, entertainment at Fiesta or a song for a child or parent's funeral service.

It has become standard at the sixth grade award and graduation ceremony that an extraordinary graduation song is played -- complete with students playing all instruments, dance and props.

Pratt made her mark as she sought to involve all of the elementary students.

"Parents want to see their child on stage," she said.

Parents and grandparents came away from the Christmas Pageants and Springsation events satisfied, and reminded of the true reason for the season.

The choir's first off campus appearance was at the Cancer Society's Christmas Tree Lighting at the Mall at Marathon.

Eventually they were invited to serenade the cancer survivors who partnered with Sister Sister Breast Cancer event at Marina Village in Atlantis. After a selection of upbeat and fun songs, they always closed with their signature closing from local songwriter the late Clement Bethell, "When The Road Seems Rough" which never failed to produce tears.

The choir has performed in Rawson Square, at senior citizen's homes, the dental association exhibition and at local churches. Besides charity ministry they also competed in the National Performing Arts competition.

Pratt led approximately 50 students on a music tour of music towns -- Nashville and Memphis, Tennessee and Atlanta, Georgia in March 2013 where they performed Bahamian pieces such as Naughty Johnny accompanied with a hand jive.

"Students should have a wider appreciation for music. There is rhythm and blues, gospel, classical, country and blue grass. They don't have to like them all, but they should be able to recognize them and know that they exist," said Pratt.

The music teacher/choir director also added the flagettes and the drum line to the musical program at Kingsway upon her arrival. The response was overwhelming with more students wanting to participate, and parents more willing to have their children attend early morning and Saturday practices to hone their talents.

Alena Munnings recalled being shy about performing. She said with Pratt's encouragement she was able to get through her first performance in second grade.

"I love the way Miss Pratt deals with us. We can sense that all of her heart is in her work, and she wants us to give each performance 100 percent," said Munnings.

Jayda Pratt said the early morning practices did not matter to her.

"Being with the choir is like being with family. Miss Pratt is not only interested in teaching music, but she's there for just a chat, or if we have life questions."

The music teacher/choir director said it was a pleasure for her to reunite with so many students and parents.
"It made my heart full," she said.

Pratt said her reason for pushing so hard and teaching music appreciation was simple.

"Our school is about training children and helping them to discover their purpose. One part of the five-fold purpose is to minster to others by using your gifts. Once I discovered that a student was musical, I just helped them to develop the skill and told them to be a blessing to others by sharing their God-given talent. They were more than happy to share. Children always want to share. And, people always appreciate good music."

The day of reminiscing and laughter completed Pratt's years of service as a music teacher.

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