Knights in
Shining Armor

Knights in Shining Armor

Education Redesigned – Where Every Student Belongs

“Can Jackson eat lunch and go to recess with us?” This was a simple and heartfelt question asked by the second-grade students in Mrs. Weller’s class at Kenowa Hills Central Elementary. Jackson is a student with Autism who joins Mrs. Weller’s class for specific lessons, learning alongside the rest of the class. Through Jackson’s consistent time in a general education class, he has improved in many of his academic growth goals, but unplanned, it has done so much more.

The students have embraced Jackson, showing genuine interest in spending time with him outside of the classroom. Jackson’s family was more than thrilled with how he has been surrounded with peer support and how the students, completely on their own, took the initiative to ask to spend more time with him during lunch and at recess.

“In a culture that has far too much bullying, it is amazing that these kids are so willing to embrace and accept a quirky kid that still has trouble with speech and social normalcy. Their parents should be very proud of the exceptional people that they are raising. I truly hope that this can be an inspiration for all people young and old to follow.”
Angel Solow, Jackson’s mom

“Observing my second graders being so accepting, encouraging, and inclusive with Jackson has been awesome to experience. As a result, Jackson is demonstrating growth with increased verbalizations and is participating more in lessons. A strong sense of belonging has been established with his peers and I couldn’t be prouder.”
Kris Weller, 2nd grade teacher

“For the class to be so young and to genuinely show so much caring and empathy to a student who learns differently from them and accept him for who he is, is remarkable. These students have taken initiative and are developing true friendships with Jackson, demonstrating leadership and making a positive impact on our school culture.”
Marsha Martinez, ASD teacher