April 2023 Special Needs Living Akron/Canton

Breaking Barriers & Stereotypes.

Meet Karis Johnson, a huge blessing to both her family and her community!

Written by Andrea Hurr with Photos by Julian Curet

A 5th grader in the Carrollton School District Karis Johnson, who has Down Syndrome, is thriving both academically and socially. Her mother, Angela credits that to early intervention, mothers’ intuition and experience, and finding the resources to help her child and her community.

Diagnosed after birth her parents understandably had some concerns and found it hard to be heard by medical professionals. Angela says they were quick to say that her concerns were due to her Down Syndrome diagnosis, but Karis is the youngest of 4 and Angela is an early childhood teacher, so she knew she had to take matters into her own hands. As soon as she could, Angela got her working with Early Intervention servicing which was a challenge due to living in a rural area and only having a few other children in their community with her diagnosis. They had to travel to find programs and resources but immersed Karis in every opportunity they could find. With Angela’s teaching background, she knew she wanted Karis to be fully included in their school district which has allowed her to thrive. Karis has a great group of the same age, typical peer friends who don’t see her differences. She loves art class, is planning on joining the choir next year, and wants to be a cheerleader - doing way more than the expectations that were given to her when her parents received her diagnosis!!

Angela says that a diagnosis is scary and overwhelming. “Give yourself grace. Resources are there, sometimes you just have to look for them. Many parents like myself have done some of the leg work already and would love to help you on your journey.” The Johnsons are pleased that surrounding communities are starting to have opportunities for children with Down Syndrome. They were having to travel to Cleveland to participate in groups and organizations but are now finding more opportunities in Canton which is much closer for them.

“Karis is smart, kind, compassionate, funny, and thoughtful,” says Angela. “She is such a blessing to our family.” She loves her teachers and being at her brother’s basketball games, which she has practically grown up in a gym. The Johnsons love spending time with their basketball families. Lastly, Angela says that you know your child better than anyone else and trust your gut, and don’t take no for an answer. “We are passionate that early intervention and allowing her to be fully included at her school have given Karis the ability to thrive academically and socially.”