Web Exclusive: Blind elementary student Jalen Ballard performs for Toledo school board

8/18/2010

BY CHRISTOPHER D. KIRKPATRICK
BLADE STAFF WRITER

In Jalen Ballard's short life, he has accomplished more than most adults, and all without eye sight.

The 7-year-old Elmhurst Elementary School student won a local Braille competition and was impressive at the national level in Los Angeles this year.

He also plays keyboards and composes original songs. He's been playing keyboards and drums since Pre-K, said his mother, Michelle Ballard.

With the help of pre-recorded drum beats on his keyboard, he played three original songs Tuesday night for the Toledo Board of Education and a packed house of about 75 residents.

His proud family looked on as his father helped him to the keyboards where he adjusted the buttons and then started to play.

The crowd erupted into applause and a spontaneous standing ovation.

It was part of new Superintendent Jerome Pecko's plan to highlight student achievement at each regular monthly board meeting, he said.