KrisTorontoSchoolBoard

Kris Martin, 22, grew up deaf and uses Phonak FM systems in school and a Cochlear-sponsored helmet for auto racing. He credits assistive technology and supportive teachers with helping him succeed academically and pursue his dream of becoming a professional race-car driver.
Chapters
I have known Kris since he was about 14 years old, and as a very— as a younger boy, he stood out as being exceptionally confident, very passionate, and quite special. It seems that Kris only improves with age. So without further ado, Kris Martin.
Hello, everybody. My name is Kris Martin, and I was born in Point Valley Gap, and I was co-carrying a parrot when I was 8 years old. I am a first-year girl, and I'm 22 years old, and I've been going to school until grade 12. I think teachers and student relationships are a very important part of my success. My teachers were always very supportive. We all communicated to make sure I was staying on track and didn't fall behind. My I.D.O.S. teachers and visual teacher, classroom teachers, hearing aid teachers were all a supportive team for me. We worked together to make my year go smoothly and to successfully. It took me a little longer than most. I had to, you know, work a little harder. But it all worked out. We decided it was the right year to do 6 credits. It took one more year to finish my high school diploma. This therefore gave me more time to focus on my subjects. It means a lot. That's stressful, trying to keep up. I always try to give it my best efforts, and I think teachers knew that, so they can try their best efforts. What was important to me was that teachers didn't treat me any different. They would never use my feeling that I'm stupid They encouraged me to be independent. They expect me to be successful. In my classroom, my FM was the best tool for learning. I did not have to rely on my teachers' hints as much in my class. Practicing it in my classroom is definitely more often, not only because I can hear the teachers, but also because the kids use the mic when speaking. However, there were a few problems with the FM. For example, if the teacher uses the FM has no hair or beard, will often be rubbing sounds coming from the speakers instead of a hairless moving dance by the speakers. Overall though, my FM makes learning easier for me. And now with wireless FM systems, kids can feel less embarrassing about wearing that system. So if the students feel uncomfortable using that system, I encourage them to just try it. I think they will be like me, realize how much less stressful it is in the classroom when you can hear what's going on. For me, it was great. It gave me a chance to learn of so much hope. I was not so stressed, not being able to hear what is going on. I didn't have to pretend to know what they talking about. My goal from the beginning was for me become president. That was the The FCM has allowed that happen for me. Reading is something I've become very good at, only in small groups. Also, my teachers gave me notes ahead of time. That way I can go over vocabulary with my either teachers or teacher aides. At night, I would review so I was better prepared in the classroom. As a result, it was easier for me to involve in my classes. My FM is what allows me to follow my dream, racing cars. In order to be To move forward is racing, and I need a radio in my car to communicate with my team members. Also, I need a spotter who talks to me while I'm out on the racetrack. My spotter is the person who helps me stay safe on the track, always letting me know what is going on around me. This is the rules. If I was not able to have this, I would not be able to become a professional race car driver. Pierre from Phonak has helped me to set the Phonak FM system up in my car, and also he teach me how to use it. Also, Phonak has sponsored me so that I do not have to pay for FM system. That was a huge help. Also, Cochlear Canada also sponsored me by buying me a new helmet with an air conditioning system because I have trouble with my implanted steady rest. Racing is a very special sport. Right now, that's the only thing holding me back from pursuing my career as a race car driver. I know I will be successful. I just need that opportunity to prove it. This scholarship is what allows me to do that. I just believe in my heart I can do it. While I was growing up, I think having passion was gave me that confidence to believe myself. It make me feel good about myself. I think if any of the students that are here today are having difficulties in their lives. He or she can find something they have success in, no matter what it is. It will help them to get through the difficult times and make them feel good about themselves. For me, that is racing. I feel at home in my race car. I have a dream to be a professional race car driver, and with sponsorship, I know I can fulfill this dream. Thank you for listening. I will be happy to answer any questions, and thank you for listening. Thank you for coming. We also going to show the video so you can watch the video and then after the video I can show you all my racing stuff, my helmet, racing suit, and then Piano will be coming next. And then I will be happy and honored to hear a comment from you guys.






