Many high school students participate in extracurricular activities to build resumes or simply have fun. For some, those activities become a source of confidence, belonging, and personal growth. Becky Sever, a senior at Lakewood High School who receives services from the Cuyahoga Board of Developmental Disabilities (Cuyahoga DD), has found all of that and more as a member of the school’s Sparkle cheer squad.

Becky began cheerleading during her sophomore year after a friend encouraged her to try out. Her inspiration came from the Disney movie Zombies, which features a cheerleader as its main character. “I was like, I really want to be like that,” Becky recalls. Although she had always dreamed of joining a cheer team, she never imagined it could become a reality—until an opening appeared on the Sparkle squad, an inclusive program designed to meet students’ individual needs. “I didn’t think that could happen to me,” she says. “But then it did!”

 Watching from the sidelines are Becky’s biggest supporters: her mother and father, Carole and Jim Sever. “It’s interesting that she gravitated toward cheer because fast, choreographed movement has been challenging,” Carole explains. Despite those challenges, Becky has embraced the experience. “She didn’t shy away from it,” Carole says. “Something might make her anxious, but when given her own timeline, she accomplishes it.”

Becky now performs choreographed routines at football and basketball games, supported by teammates who have become close friends. “The cheerleaders are so kind and supportive,” Carole says. “It’s amazing to see Becky be part of a football game. It fills my heart with joy.”

Outside of cheer, Becky stays busy exploring her many interests. She works at the Friendship Café, participates in sports through Empower Sports, and takes classes at the Beck Center. She has played basketball and pickleball and hopes to try kickball next. Her current activities include a theater class called Scene Makers, traditional art classes, and weekly line dancing.

Like many teens, Becky enjoys listening to Taylor Swift and watching anime. As graduation approaches, she is excited—but understandably nervous—about what comes next. To help with that transition, she works with Hayley Giesige, support administrator for youth and transition at Cuyahoga DD.

“The move from high school to adulthood can be especially challenging,” Giesige explains. “Sometimes, young people with disabilities don’t realize they have options, and that can be scary. But there are opportunities like working, volunteering, or attending adult programs.”

Cuyahoga DD provides families with guidance and resources to ease this transition. Becky hopes to pursue employment or further education after graduation and eventually live independently. “There are things for people to do that give them meaning,” Giesige says.

 Cuyahoga DD uses a person-centered approach, focusing on each person’s unique goals, needs, and preferences, and putting the correct supports in place.

With her determination, wide range of interests, and strong support system, Becky is well prepared for what lies ahead. From cheering on the sidelines to building independence, she continues to shine and live life on her terms.

For more information about services for people with developmental disabilities, please visit CuyahogaDD.org or call 216-241-8230.

~Article and photo by Sophia Filipiak