Sparkle Squad presentation highlights inclusion, student leadership at Johnson City Board meeting

At the April meeting of the Johnson City Board of Education, students, staff and parents showcased Sparkle Squad, an adapted cheer and dance program they said creates inclusive experiences for students with special needs.

Miss Ally Russell, introduced by a board member as the district's middle school teacher of the year, told the board the Sparkle Squad "fosters inclusion by bringing together peers and students with special needs to collaborate, perform, and build meaningful connections through cheer and dance." She said the program began in 2022 and has expanded from three peers and five squad members to 25 peers and 12 squad members this year, and that more than 50 students applied to join the program this year.

"It has taught me not to look at the outside of a person, but the inside," student Lexi Davis said, describing how working alongside classmates in intramurals and performances built lasting friendships. Student Reese Campbell said serving with the squad "changed my life" and gave her ongoing connections with peers at events and school activities.

Parents also spoke about the squad's impact. Heather Davis said the program gave her daughter leadership opportunities and joy; parent TJ Jones described how the squad let his son "shine" and helped create a sense of belonging that will follow him when he moves to high school.

District leaders and board members praised the students' presentations and noted the program's effect on school culture. Board members and staff suggested capturing video clips of the performance for district communications and thanked community partners who support similar inclusive efforts.

The board did not take action on the presentation; the item was an informational recognition and part of the meeting's opening remarks. The next procedural business proceeded after the recognition and brief questions from board members.