Gary Schools to Engage Parents of Special Needs Students 

West Side Leadership Academy will host the next installment of “F.A.C.E. It,” a series of conversations for families and school community stakeholders who want to get involved with the Gary Schools. This month, the focus is Special Populations – Parent Impact. This informative and empowering event aims to equip parents with valuable resources to support their children with special needs who are enrolled in the Gary Community School Corporation.

The event will take place Wednesday, April 30th, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Room (B-120) at West Side Leadership Academy, 900 Gerry St. For added convenience, the program will also be streamed live on Facebook Live, ensuring accessibility for families who are unable to attend in person.

The discussion will be led by Special Education Teacher Kimberly Mead and will feature guest speakers Judge Inga Lewis-Shannon of Project Rebuild and Quiana Davis, a district parent who will share her personal experiences and insights on educating a child with special needs. Together, they will provide guidance, encouragement and practical strategies for parents who may need assistance with navigating and advocating for their children.

UTF 8west side leadership academy 20250422 101154 0000

“I am passionate about what I do and recognize that parents who have children with special needs often require different and/or additional resources,” said Mead. 

Since space is limited, participants are encouraged  to RSVP by contacting the West Side Leadership Academy FACE Liaison, Lanonya Sombright-Jackson at (219) 413-9870 Ext. 48003.

“We don’t want our parents to  miss this chance to gain valuable insights, forge meaningful connections, and be empowered on their parenting journey,” said Sombright-Jackson.

Copy of CRUSADER WEBSITE PHOTO 1200X630 2023 08 09T083945.671

For more information about the Special Populations division of the district, visit www.GarySchools.org.