Congratulations to Lainie Wilson!
Earlier this spring, Franklin 7th grader Lainie Wilson was named Illinois’ Jr. Teen Miss Amazing 2023! As part of her new official role to be an advocate for girls and women with different abilities, Lainie has already enjoyed some incredible experiences like singing the national anthem at Soldier Field, leading the Best Buddies Walk, engaging in volunteer service hours, and public appearances wearing her sash and crown. Later this summer, she will participate in Miss Amazing’s National Event in Rosemont where she will receive a special award for the time she volunteers in her community.
The Miss Amazing competition draws inspiration from pageantry to teach vital self-advocacy skills, spark connections, and open up pathways to leadership. Lainie says the most nerve-wracking part of the competition was singing “You Make Me Brave” in front of the judges. When asked how she handled it, Lanie said, “Well, if I’m going to sing about being brave, I guess I better act like it, right?”
Lainie’s Mom, Leah, who is a teacher in District 200, attributes Jefferson Early Childhood Center and early therapies and interventions to so much of Lainie’s success. Leah also encourages parents not to limit what they think their child is able to do. “All different abilities have great things to offer this world,” says Leah.
Lainie is really enjoying this incredible experience and wanted to thank several of her teachers including Ms. Kris at Jefferson, Ms. Moses at Emerson, Ms. “G” Glavanovits at Franklin, Ms. Lovelace at Franklin, and the two principals, Mr. Bendis and Mr. Kish, at Franklin for encouraging and supporting her childhood.
Great job, Lainie! #YourCommunitySchools are proud of you!
The Miss Amazing organization invests in girls and women with disabilities. The options available to girls with disabilities should reflect their boundless potential. But because of widely-held myths about their capabilities, girls with disabilities are often held back from taking risks that could enrich their personal development, deprived of opportunities to make friends, and granted less access to resources.
