May 20, 2018 was a momentous occasion for Rachel and our family.  She was one of 563 members of the Olathe South Class of 2018. Thousands across the country are members of the Class of 2018.  We celebrated before, during, and after.  In fact, we continue to celebrate and recuperate. Hence, my tardiness in blogging about this day I have dreamed about and worked toward for almost 19 years of her life.

High school graduation is a big deal.  It is one of the those life events, that for many in our country, represents the transition to adulthood. For some, it is the culmination of 13 years of public school education and for others, like Rachel, it is the culmination of 16 years of public education.  This is because of Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) which basically requires the public school system to provide a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) to children ages 3 – 22 in the least restrictive environment (LRE).

As I posted pictures and celebrations, I did not immediately state that Rachel received a diploma just like her friends. Then, private messages starting coming. “Did she get a real diploma or a certificate?” The questions came from near and far.  Most people who haven’t navigated this journey with a child with an intellectual disability don’t pose the question because they assume that Rachel received a diploma like her friends. This is not true for many of our friends with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities around this country though.

Sunday morning of Rachel’s graduation as we were bartering for tickets, we sat down with Rachel and again told her how we are. I reminded her of how hard she had worked, and that there are others with Down syndrome who don’t/won’t get a diploma like her. I reminded her that we would continue to work so others with Down syndrome would get a diploma like their friends, too.  Rachel doesn’t quite understand that though. She has always been included with her friends,  so of course she got a diploma just like everyone else. I think that’s true for her friends and their families, too. They assumed she would get a diploma.

Personally, I find it sad that 43 years after the passage of IDEA, people still want to know, “Is it a diploma just like her friends?” Then, they want strategies so their child can get a diploma. We will do our best to help others with this dream.  It is dependent on a lot of things. Unfortunately, one of the most important factors is what state you live in.  It is harder in some states than others to get that coveted diploma.

I’ll try to write more about those factors another day. Today, I just wanted to share a few pictures of the beauty from Rachel’s graduation. People have been way beyond generous in gifts and support of Rachel.  The common theme in her cards from peers, friends, teachers, and administrators has been her smile and positive attitude.  I didn’t get great pictures from graduation day but here are a few of our favorites.  Congratulations Rachel!

Perfect picture of one of her trademark gestures.

All smiles lining up.

Just a candid shot from someone int he audience.

Excited to receive her diploma from our friend and school board member, LeEtta Felter.

 

Getting ready to hug her principal.  “Be warned, I’ve got a big hug for you!”

Hugging her Principal Mr. Albers.

Most of our family and close friends who were able to go to actual graduation. So blessed by all of these and the generosity gift of tickets from friends.

These two may be my very favorite of her with Ms. Fitz, her case manager, friend, mentor, and volleyball coach.

Of course the proud family!