Day Creek has about 1,300 kids on campus. And each of them possesses a unique personality and set of abilities. Some kids are athletic, musical, scholarly, artistic or multilingual. The list goes on. But what about students with special needs?

We have a program on campus for kids who face some significant educational challenges, and these students are sometimes overlooked. 

“I hate how other people just see them for their disability and nothing more,” said seventh grader Jacob M.

Though special ed. students may need specific classroom support, it doesn’t mean they lack  their own interests and talents.

One of these students is sixth grader, Etor E. Although he was born with Down syndrome, he has the most amazing ability to do contortion.

“I am flexible,” said Etor. And he certainly is. While most students struggle to touch their toes, Etor can easily extend his legs up to shoulder level.

Another student in class, Adrian P., also has Down syndrome. His condition may be challenging at times, but performing magic tricks comes naturally. He is enthusiastic and loves to entertain people. Adrian can do a phenomenal removable thumb trick, which gives the illusion that his finger has come off.

“I can do magic [tricks],” said Adrian. Someone let Vegas know that we found a future entertainer!

Lastly, Damien H. has autism, which requires a modified pace in the classroom. Damien loves sports, specifically football.

“I can play football,” said Damien. He’s not lying. Damien demonstrated his skills with a tight spiral to Mr. Hensley, his teacher, on his first try. And he caught a return pass with ease.

While a student’s educational pace may be different, talent is universal. Contortion, flawless magic, and a tight spiral are skills that many students can’t do. In these ways, our special ed. students aren’t ordinary, they’re extraordinary. 

“Our buddies with special needs – don’t make fun of them. They can be better than us in certain ways,” said Jacob M. “I wish I was flexible and [could] do magic tricks!”