Karye Brockert takes on the role of director at our Academy at Riverdale with a clear mission in mind – to transform it into the “best school in Arkansas for children with disabilities.”
Her approach is hands-on and collaborative. She actively engages with students on a one-to-one basis, working alongside teachers and paraprofessionals to ensure each child receives a tailored, high-quality education. Karye’s dedication goes beyond just providing support; she empowers educators with information, training, and modeling to help them maximize their skills.
In Karye’s words, “I support the teachers and paras to increase their abilities and I provide the information, training, and modeling that will allow them to maximize their skills.”
From General Education Teacher to Special Education Advocate
Karye’s educational journey took a significant turn when her daughter, Maddie, was born with Autism Spectrum Disorder. As Karye fondly recalls, “My husband and I knew she was something special from the day she was born. She has opened my eyes to a world and a community that I can’t imagine being without. She has taught me so much about being a teacher, mother, and friend and it is that experience that led me to special education.
At first, I wanted to be better at teaching her, but as time went on, I realized how rich my life was with such a wonderfully diverse and unique group of students. Although it was not my initial path, I can’t imagine my life without these kids.”
Empowering Educators Statewide
Karye’s passion for special education extends beyond the Academy’s walls. She also teaches a class at Henderson State University and has been providing professional development to educators across the state for the past three years.
Despite the challenges that come with this journey, Karye is resolute in her calling. “Just like the rest of life, it’s had its ups and its downs, but I know it is my calling and I will teach as long as I can,” she says.
Inspiration from the Heart: What Drives Karye
At the heart of Karye’s motivation to stay in the special education field are the children. Karye reflects, “I am motivated by how genuine these kids are and by the opportunity to see their courage and their joy every day. I have the opportunity to celebrate what most consider insignificant events because of how huge it is for these kids. If life is about the simple pleasures, I am blessed with tons of them every day.”
A Vision for Riverdale Academy and Special Education in Arkansas
Karye’s aspirations for Riverdale Academy are grand. She envisions it becoming the epicenter of special education in Arkansas.
“I want kids and parents from all over to feel they have a place that will accept them for who they are and work to provide them an education that will allow them to grow. I want the Academy to be a place that kids want to come to school and parents want to send their children. I want the Academy to be a place where teachers and administrators come from all over the state to improve their skills and grow as professionals in teaching students with special needs. I want for the children of Arkansas what I want for my own child.”, she adds.
Life Beyond Education
Outside her professional life, Karye is committed to spending quality time with her family. She cherishes moments with her daughter Maddie and her husband of 13 years, Ben. Karye sums it up perfectly, saying, “Sometimes I think that we are our own reality show. Life is always an adventure with my family.”
Karye Brockert’s journey is an inspiring testament to the power of personal experience and dedication to transform education and enrich the lives of those she touches, both in and outside the classroom.
