When covid started, I was a single mom trying to teach two special-needs children with two very different abilities by myself. Trying to juggle work, teaching, and taking both my boys to their different therapies alone was defeating. But I knew they could not reach their full potential with just my help.

I started looking into alternative education opportunities for my non-verbal son Eli as he was about to transition to kindergarten. I found the Lighthouse and knew it was the best place for him. He may not learn and understand the same things as other children his age, but I didn’t want him isolated. I wanted him to be in an environment where he could learn to his ability but be around other children who would love and accept him.

I worked extra hours on the weekends while my sons visited their dad in order to pay tuition. I told myself I would work as many hours as I could for Eli to stay, but ultimately I knew I could not do it for his entire educational experience.

Getting the Succeed Scholarship, and now the LEARNS educational freedom account, was a weight lifted off my shoulders and such a blessing! Like any parent, I want my child in a place where he will benefit the most. I want him to be safe, understood, and loved. The EFA program allows that to happen where he is. It allows him to be exactly where he needs to be.

– Christina Johnson, Jonesboro