By Cindy Adams

Traviar Ray is a first grade student at Lynchburg Minnick School. But when he grows up, he wants to be "Mr. Wray." That’s his ambition, so he is quite busy getting prepared.

Traviar has limited verbal skills but has plenty of ways to communicate. And he especially likes to connect with his principal, Brian Wray. Maybe because Brian wants to connect with him, too.

"Brian has a remarkable gift for finding ways to communicate with students," said enCircle’s VP of Educational Services, Terri Webber. "His approach centers around making a connection, whether verbal or nonverbal."

It started with Mr. Wray's name badge. Travier was intrigued by this plastic card hanging on a string. His eyes followed it, and he repeatedly pointed at it. Brian picked up on the unspoken request and finally asked "Do you want to wear this badge?" And, indeed, he did.

Next came Mr. Wray’s signature colorful suit jackets. Traviar was helping in Mr. Wray’s office when he spotted a purple one draped over his chair. Again, he repeatedly pointed to the jacket. And, again, Brian "listened" and asked, "Do you want to wear my jacket?" The answer was clear.

"The communication may be nontraditional. It may not even have a definition," said Terri. "It’s simply a heartfelt understanding of each other. It takes time. It takes investment. It takes patience. But it makes all the difference."

This is the Minnick way—where a simple gesture like letting a student try on a principal’s jacket can become a powerful symbol of trust and understanding. These moments can turn a day around. They can turn a life around.

Travier Ray may not grow up to be Mr. Wray exactly, but his preparation is resolute, his role model is exceptional, and their connection? It's absolutely irreplaceable.