Kay had her final family engagement event at school for the year, and I absolutely love the end-of-year program they put on. Last year, Kay wasn’t too interested in participating—she barely engaged and ended up sitting on her teacher aide’s lap just to stay on stage. But this year? Kay was all in! She was singing, dancing, and having a blast right alongside her classmates. It was such a joy to watch!
The progress Kay has made over the past year has been incredible. Her teacher shared with me that Kay now actively seeks out her peers to play. They’ll run around outside laughing together, playing ring-around-the-rosy—it’s the sweetest thing. Just a year ago, she would mostly stay near her classmates but rarely initiated play or tried to join in. Seeing this shift has been so meaningful.
I’m beyond grateful for the inclusive environment at her school. From the very beginning, they welcomed Kay with open arms and have continually supported her in every way possible. Recently, I got a call offering Kay a spot in a full-day pre-K program at another nearby school. While I appreciated the opportunity and know it could offer certain benefits, I didn’t hesitate to say no. I’m simply not willing to move her from where she is now.
It’s heartbreaking that many families in our community don’t have the same positive experience with schools. Far too often, acceptance and inclusion are still lacking. I know how rare it is to find a place where your child is seen not for their differences but for who they truly are—capable, valuable, and worthy of love and belonging. At Kay’s school, they not only support her—they celebrate her. They recognize that children like Kay have so much to offer, and that the learning goes both ways.
The day Kay can no longer attend this school will be a hard one. I’ll be sad to leave behind a place that has given us so much love and support—but also deeply grateful for the beautiful foundation they’ve helped build for her future.