JellyBean Vision
“Empowering every unique mind, one
circumstance at a time – because every misunderstood child is a world of potential waiting to shine”
Welcome to Johnson's JellyBeans!
For more than two decades, I have embarked on a heartfelt journey fueled by love and a steadfast commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children. Our advocacy story originated from a personal struggle within our family, as we navigated the complex system of special needs education for my own child. Although enrolled in services since 18 months through the EFMP program, it wasn't until the age of 8 that he was diagnosed with Autism.
As a military family, we've weathered the storms of change, moving from one place to another, adapting to new schools and therapists. Along this path, we have encountered experiences that no child or family should endure. Our mission is crystal clear: to stand up for the struggling children who are not mere 'behavior problems' but are individuals facing challenges due to neuro differences.
With a background in early childhood education and a profound understanding of the hurdles children encounter, I have gained invaluable insights working at Army Post CDCs and in public schools. We've witnessed firsthand how society perceives children, the immense stress educators endure, and the vital importance of treating children with utmost respect and care.
Our journey has led us to a pivotal point where we take great pride in holding a BCASE certification - Board Certified Advocate Special Education. My husband and I are here to change the world and empower children to reach their fullest potential, while also enabling parents to find solutions to the challenges their families face both at home and within the classroom.
At Johnson's JellyBeans, our story is one of experience, passion, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of children. With over 20 years of experience working with children and a dedication to advocating for their rights, we're on a mission to change the world one family, one teacher, and one experience at a time.
Our Values: Integrity and Advocacy
Our commitment at Johnson's JellyBeans is deeply rooted in integrity and compassionate advocacy for children with special needs. We're dedicated to doing the right thing in supporting children and their right to a free and appropriate education. We ensure schools follow federal laws and provide the best education for their students. Our work isn't just about keeping schools on track; it's also about collaborating with them in the best interest of the student. We strive to equip teachers and school administrators with the tools and guidance they need to help every child succeed. Often, accommodating one student can help the majority in various ways. By working as a team with schools and parents, our shared goals will create a positive space where children can succeed, teachers can access the tools and support they need, and the entire community benefits from our focus on top-notch education and giving society the best chance to succeed as a whole.
Our Journey: From Struggles to Advocacy
Our journey began with personal challenges, fueled by life lessons and an unwavering passion for helping children. Our founder, who holds a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor's in Elementary Education, faced the uphill battle of navigating the education system when her youngest child, enrolled in special needs services at 18 months, was deemed a behavior issue at 5 and diagnosed with autism at 8.
Despite her education, the public school system labeled her child as a "behavior problem" and subjected him to physical, mental, and emotional abuse, all while casting blame on her parenting. These experiences, while challenging, ignited a fire within her to pave a different path.
As a military family, we've endured the hardships of frequent moves, adapting to new schools, and undergoing various therapies, such as speech, OT, and PT. Our experiences have driven us to a singular mission: to support all struggling children who are not "behavior issues" but merely facing challenges because they were born different.
Experience: The Catalyst for Change
Our journey has been enriched by experiences in Child Development Centers (CDCs) across various Army Bases and numerous childcare centers. In these settings, we've gained insights into societal attitudes towards children and the challenges faced by those working in these environments. Recognizing children as the future, we are committed to advocating for their well-being. These experiences have emphasized the importance of early intervention. By addressing developmental and educational needs at the earliest stages, we can significantly influence a child's future path. Early support is crucial not only for tackling immediate challenges but also for laying a solid foundation for long-term success. We view the struggles children face not as limitations but as opportunities for learning and building resilience. Providing early intervention equips children with vital coping tools, benefiting their entire life journey. Our investment in the early years of children's lives is an investment in a brighter, more robust future for them and, by extension, our society. The efforts we make today in supporting and understanding young minds have a lasting impact, shaping the fabric of our country for generations to come.
A Dream Job Turned Advocacy
The dream job of teaching kindergarten in a public school, though filled with love for the children and a passion for teaching, had profound effects on our founder. The intense stress of the role, compounded by the heartache of seeing special education students not receiving necessary services, led to physical health problems. This deep empathy for overworked and underpaid educators became a personal reality.
A Vision for Change
Today, we hold a BCASE certification (Board Certified Advocate Special Education), a testament to our commitment to creating change. We are ready to impact the world, alongside our amazing retired Army veteran husband, wherever our journey takes us.
Join us on this transformative journey as we advocate for children and families, one story, one challenge, one triumph at a time. Together, we can change the world for the better, ensuring that no child is left behind.
