SUNDAY SELFIE SERIES #62
Kaylee Evers
SUNDAY SELFIE SERIES #62: The amazing Kaylee Evers. Kaylee is in charge of John Henry’s summer program and is an angel on earth. I’ve learned so many things from those who have guided John Henry and me through our days, and none more than Kaylee, whose calm, kind, and happy demeanor belies her deep knowledge and strength. I love what she said in her answer to question one about children letting you know how they feel — though my dear boy is non-speaking, he has ways of letting us know his opinions. We have laughed together, shook our heads in amazement and confusion together, ridden together on countless trips to Sonic for a “blast blast blast” (when John Henry really wants something he’ll push the button on his iPad repeatedly and it says the word for him, sometimes to our amusement) or a slush and tots, and most importantly, h o p e d together that John Henry will continue to show us who he is. One of the most wonderful and unexpected blessings of admitting I can’t raise my child all by myself is getting to know and love the other people who show up day after day to help me do it. Kaylee will always be a part of our story, our lives, and our hearts.
What has humbled you more than anything else?
Working in special education. Kids will tell you the truth and their opinions without being asked. If they like you, you’ll know. If they hate the shirt you’re wearing, you’ll know. The kids make it worth it. It’s the adults, ever changing policies, and large amounts of paperwork that complicate things. Especially during a pandemic. I try to do everything in my power for my students, but it’s difficult when it’s out of my control or even my best isn’t good enough.
Do you feel like you’ve gotten a good education?
Yes. I’ve been blessed to have opportunities to get out of my comfort zone. I started in a K-12 school in a small town in the Florida Panhandle. Then I went to the University of Alabama, then Vanderbilt. Honestly, I learned the most from the people. I believe we learn the most when we expose ourselves to all kinds of kinds.
Do you believe that forgiveness benefits the forgiver or the transgressor?
The forgiver. Forgiveness is a long process of healing - it takes strength. Sometimes the people we are forgiving don’t deserve it and we know it, but to free ourselves we have to let it out and let it go.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Being someone my students can confide in. A lot have trust issues with adults for many reasons. I’ve had students tell me anything and everything and come to me for advice even if they knew it might be something that I would have to tell other people or report. Sometimes they even decide that they need to tell somebody themselves. Hearing a kid say,” yeah, well I trust you.” I think that’s something to be proud of.
How would you like to live out your golden years?
On a beach or near water creating something. I’m from Florida and being landlocked makes me uncomfortable. I’m unsure what I would be creating, but I love to paint and draw. One of my favorite quotes is, “People like you must create. If you don't create, you will become a menace to society.” I get that.
How awesome! Yes, being responsible for a special needs child opens your reality. More often than not my son would bring a new understanding of a situation. God Bless you all!
What an inspiring young lady! It was so good to read her 'selfie'! If we could all have just a little bit of what she seems to have in spades, maybe we could all learn to understand and care for one another again. Thanks to you both!