By Alyssa Racosky
When Kendall started ninth grade at Kennedy Krieger High School, she was excited for her new adventure. Her mom, Angelque, felt a little nervous about the transition. After attending a small day program unaffiliated with Kennedy Krieger Institute, Kendall was moving to a much larger school environment, and her family wondered how she would adjust.
“When she came home after her first day, she was overly excited,” Angelque recalls. “I remember her saying Kennedy Krieger High School was the best school.”
Kendall, 15, is a creative and outgoing student who loves music, art, dance, cooking, and all things K-pop. Diagnosed with autism, she enjoys meeting new people and trying new activities. Before attending high school, opportunities to explore extracurricular activities were limited. Her family wanted a school that would provide both academic support and a more traditional high-school experience. After they visited several options, Kennedy Krieger High School stood apart from the crowd.
The high school provides individualized support, including a one-on-one aide and counseling services. The school team works closely with Kendall’s family, providing updates and collaborating to meet her needs and support her goals.
“It provided the academic support and resources Kendall needed, while also offering clubs, social activities, sports teams, and career training,” Angelque says.
She’s become much more confident.” – Angelque
Confidence, Creativity, and a Career
Since enrolling in Kennedy Krieger High School, Kendall has embraced those opportunities and gained confidence along the way. She participates in the Graphic Design Club, performed a ribbon dance in the talent show, and appeared in the school’s production of “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR.” as both Mrs. Bucket and an Oompa Loompa.
“Kendall has shown more interest in interacting with peers at school and out in the community,” Angelque says. “She’s become much more confident.”
One of the biggest impacts has come from her involvement in graphic design. What began as a school activity has sparked a potential career interest. Kendall now attends programs and camps that support her goal of becoming a graphic designer.
For Kendall, Kennedy Krieger High School has become more than just a school. It’s a place where she can explore her interests, build friendships, develop confidence, and begin shaping the future she envisions for herself.
Kendall’s experience at school has also led to changes at home. She is more eager to talk about her day and share her experiences without being prompted.
For her family, success means helping her become as independent as possible while pursuing a career she enjoys. With the support of Kennedy Krieger High School, she is already taking important steps toward that future—one filled with confidence, creativity, and new possibilities.