When Aimee Swift and her family moved to the Jenks Public Schools district, they were seeking more than just a place to call their educational home. They were searching for a community that would embrace their unique needs, particularly for their daughter, Lindie, who required specialized education services. What they found at Jenks East Elementary was not only support but a profound sense of belonging that transformed their lives.
The journey began with a leap of faith. After reaching out to multiple school districts, Aimee was met with limited responses—except for one. Allison Conch, a SPED Coordinator from Jenks Public Schools, not only replied but also went above and beyond to ensure the Swift family felt valued from the start.
“Allison took the time to meet with me,” Aimee shared. “She spent a couple of hours answering every question we had about the Special Education program. She made us feel heard and understood, which was so important to us as we made this decision for Lindie and her siblings.”
Lindie’s needs were complex, but Jenks East Elementary demonstrated flexibility and care, even after the school year had started. Adjustments were made to ensure Lindie could thrive, and the staff worked tirelessly to craft a plan tailored to her needs. From riding the bus to participating in programs like Trojan Explorers, an after-school enrichment program, Lindie was given opportunities the family once doubted would be possible.
“It was everything we had hoped for,” Aimee said. “They didn’t just meet our expectations—they exceeded them. They saw us as humans and built meaningful relationships with our family.”
The experience inspired Aimee to deepen her connection to the Jenks community. She works as a science teacher at Jenks Middle School, continuing to contribute to the district that had so warmly welcomed her family.
“I love being a teacher here,” Aimee said. “The relationships I’ve built and the support I’ve received reaffirm that this is where our family is meant to be.”
For the Swift family, Jenks East Elementary is more than a school; it’s a place where they truly belong. The words—“All Belong. All Learn. All Lead.”— not only appear on the school’s marquee, but shine through in every interaction, ensuring that every family, no matter their journey, feels valued and supported. “They’ve shown us that everyone has a place here, Lindie included.”