Mother’s Advocacy Highlights the Necessities of Special Needs Children
by Karyn Brodsky
While it is often said that it takes a village to raise a child, Dallas resident Kelly Waterman believes it takes an especially LARGE village to raise a child with special needs. In the absence of such a community, she took it upon herself to build one.
Twenty years ago, the Waterman family welcomed their daughter, Sara, who was born with Down syndrome. As Kelly recounts, “My husband Robert and I committed ourselves to providing her with as typical a life as possible.” She adds, “We’re in this together, wanting Sara to be viewed and treated as any other child.” This commitment ignited Kelly’s passionate advocacy for her daughter. She quickly became a voice for special needs children, immersing herself in multiple organizations, often taking on leadership roles.
Sara, affectionately nicknamed “Happy” due to her cheerful nature, navigated her educational journey in Plano’s grade and middle schools. Unlike many parents of children with special needs who might feel hesitant, Kelly dedicated herself to becoming a PTA leader, becoming a source of inspiration for fellow parents. “I aimed to showcase the abilities of special needs children rather than focus solely on their disabilities,” she explains. To better serve those with different learning styles, Kelly co-founded Special and Gifted Education (S.A.G.E.), which aimed to provide information regarding accommodating classes for special needs students, leading other nearby school districts to adopt the initiative.
When Kelly faced challenges in finding a suitable camp for Happy, she took action by launching her own initiative. In 2009, she established the S.A.G.E. Summer Expo, which began with a small selection of camps and a few hundred families. Today, the Expo has expanded to include over 75 camps and attracts around 1,000 participants annually.
Happy flourished during elementary school and later became a cheerleader at Renner Middle School, significantly boosting her self-confidence. As Happy transitioned to high school, Kelly sought a suitable transition program, thoroughly researching various options before recognizing the potential at Highland Park High School. After relocating to the area, Happy is now successfully navigating her second year in the transition program, which accommodates special needs students until the age of 22.
Upon learning that her daughter’s new high school lacked a cheerleading program for special needs students, Kelly prepared a proposal for the school administration. Her suggestion received swift approval, allowing Happy and her peers to build their confidence and feel a part of the school community through cheerleading. “It’s wonderful,” says Happy. “I love cheering at the games.” Kelly is thrilled that the “Sparkling Scots” program pairs varsity cheerleaders with those who have special needs to help teach routines. “It’s gratifying to advocate not just for my daughter, but for all children,” she adds.
The entire Waterman family is engaged in Kelly’s advocacy efforts. Her son Nick, an 18-year-old football player at the Air Force Academy, is described as “the best brother ever” and actively participates as a Best Buddy, peer tutor, and volunteer for the Special Olympics.
In addition, Kelly is an active member of the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee, where she advises on ways to enhance the school experience for special needs families. As the liaison for the school’s transition program, she investigates various internships and training opportunities. Furthermore, she serves on the board of the Park Cities Learning Difference Association, working to secure funding for innovative training for educators of special needs children.
Kelly was nominated for the VIP award by Plano mother Karen Pizette, who also has a special needs child. Pizette expresses her admiration, stating, “Kelly has inspired me and many families over the years, leading us through the school system and activities available to our special kids.” She praises Kelly’s relentless commitment to establishing inclusive programs, deeming her “amazing.”
With her dedicated approach, unwavering positivity, and compelling influence, Kelly stands as a beacon of hope for all parents, especially those with special needs children. For her remarkable advocacy, exceptional energy, and steadfast commitment, Themerrythought Magazine is proud to honor Kelly Waterman with this month’s VIP award.
The VIP (Very Inspiring Parent) Award recognizes both everyday heroes and extraordinary individuals within our community. These are those whose strength, honesty, and bravery inspire others to embody the same values, prioritizing their families and communities despite life’s obstacles. Themerrythought will present an elegant crystal award to the recipient and make a donation to a charity of their choice. Each issue of Themerrythought magazine features one VIP award recipient.
For more information or to nominate someone, please CLICK HERE or reach out via email at Tricia@Themerrythought.net.
