Congrats, Seniors Class of '25 - TJS Alumni Sport College Colors in First Annual Senior Parade

BY ANDREA DORR, Transition Coordinator & LAURA SPAULDING, Writer

Last week, we had the distinct privilege of celebrating with several of the over 40 Class of '25 high school seniors who were TJS students at some point during their elementary or middle school years. Each of these alum students showed up decked out in their future college colors and represented powerful stories of resilience and success! The excitement was palpable! 

Glowing with pride and affection, teachers hugged and high-fived the very students who used to walk these halls and sit in their classrooms daily. What joy for every staff member to have been a part of these young adults' stories, from struggle to success. Each graduate was another reminder about why we do what we do. It was also another opportunity to inspire current students to think about every possibility and opportunity open ahead of them, despite any previous or current challenges. Our Senior Parade reminds everyone that learning differences and disabilities do not have the final say in anyone's story.

The graduates had the chance to reminisce, catch up on life, and discuss their plans. Happy tears, hugs, and laughter filled the Moody Conference Center, where these same students used to eat lunch on rainy days, give class presentations, watch performances, or celebrate all sorts of big and small accomplishments. This week's celebration topped all other celebrations as Zeina sported her burnt orange t-shirt representing her acceptance to The University of Texas at Austin's School of Engineering, where she plans to study Mechanical Engineering. We celebrated Will's upcoming graduation from The Kinkaid School as he prepares to attend Trinity University in San Antonio. We celebrated Annie and Hudson, both donning green and gold, thrilled to become Baylor Bears in the fall. 

From Harvard University to Colorado School of Mines and STEM studies to degrees in the arts, the vast array of schools represented and degrees pursued by our graduating alumni is exciting and impressive! It's a testament to The Joy School's commitment to helping each student find their passions and individualized paths to reach their unique academic and social potential. Millie is venturing the furthest from home, heading to Georgia to study fashion and join the equestrian team at the Savannah College of Art and Design, one of the country's top art and design schools for its prestigious rankings in design, animation, and fashion. 

Our alum parents were as nostalgic and reminiscent as everyone else. I overheard Saundria Gray telling another parent, "It is so good to be back! It feels like home! This is a reunion for us, too!" She went on to say that The Joy School is the best thing that ever happened to Grace. And while she was quick to clarify "the best thing educationally, of course," all noted and shared the depth of her gratitude and joy. While another mom called the celebration a "surreal event," a dad held back tears as he shared, "You don't even know the full extent of the benefits until later. Results are longterm.” That's when Jonah's mom added, "Just last week, Jonah said, 'I use the skills I learned at The Joy School every day, and I will use them for the rest of my life." 

As the graduates walked the very halls they used to roam as elementary and middle school students, they were surrounded by beaming cheerleaders. This event included 150 of our current students, all of their former teachers and Deans, Ms. Tracei, Ms. Bumgarner, Ms. Dorr, and, of course, their parents, who have struggled as much as they have to get to this moment! We are so excited for each of these students and so thankful to have been a part of their stories. Joy-filled stories that have only just begun to unfold!

The Joy School’s timeless legacy lives on through our former students who have been forever changed because of their time at The Joy School.

To learn more about the lifelong impact The Joy School has on its students, teachers, and families, join us for a parent tour.