Tomorrow, Leah will walk the hall one last time as a 5th grader! It will be a huge adjustment for Leah as she has been attending the same school for the past 8 years. Each year, we had something to celebrate, but also endured heartache, we advocated for inclusion, services and for equality.
It’s hard having a child who’s been defined by their disability, it’s an invisible label that follows them wherever they go. Still to this day, there are certain events that I find myself lost in thought thinking to myself why... why did we have to advocate for the desk, or the having that fleeting feeling when I found out that Leah was bullied and nobody around her stood up to stop it. The feeling being secluded when Leah and I went on a field trip as we walked around the zoo by ourselves because we were not paired with other groups. Going through that experience I realized that there needs to be more opportunities for people to become more welcoming and accepting towards others whom are different! That is what makes life so special and so unique!
Through our troubles I want to give praise to the remarkable resource room teachers that Leah has had! We have been fortunate for them as they have taken Leah and held her to high expectations, they have been nothing but kind and most importantly they have had the patience and understanding to deal with us as parents. We ask questions, a lot to be honest, we are communicators as we are always trying to support Leah’s team as much as possible and as parents, we hold ourselves accountable.
These past three months have been something that I will cherish for the rest of my life, Leah has been surrounded by so many positive people, she had encouraging interactions with her peers. Last Friday, Alex and I got to experience Leah’s 5th grade graduation parade. Our Leah has grown to be such a smart, remarkable, and at times a goofy young lady. As parents Leah inspires us, she has shown perseverance and she has and will always be our blessing! Tomorrow will most definitely be bittersweet as we are looking forward to Leah’s future, as a middle schooler!
As everyone celebrates this year is FINALLY over, we want to congratulate all the seniors and give positive vibes to those who are transitioning to into middle and high school!
