by Keshet Parents Elena Trujillo & Michael Springer
This year marks a meaningful and joyous milestone for our family as our daughter Emerson Springer completes Keshet’s High School Program at Ida Crown Jewish Academy. Emerson’s journey with Keshet began when she enrolled in the Keshet Day School in Northbrook after another program came to an end. From those early middle school days through her transition into the high school program in Skokie, Keshet made every step seamless and deeply supportive—ensuring Emerson always felt safe and exactly where she belonged.
Throughout Emerson’s high school years, she was surrounded by exceptional educators who truly saw her and believed in her potential. We are endlessly grateful to Nina, Kaylee and Josh, three wonderful teachers who supported Emerson with patience, creativity and genuine care. Each one played a meaningful role in helping her learn and gain confidence along the way.
Equally important to us was the incredible network of support beyond the classroom. Emerson was supported by an outstanding team of therapists, paraprofessionals, social workers, nurses and school administrators all of whom worked together to ensure she was cared for. Knowing there was such a coordinated, compassionate team focused on her well‑being gave us tremendous peace of mind and allowed Emerson to truly thrive.
One of Emerson’s absolute favorite parts of her time at Keshet was participating in outings. She loved getting out into the community, exploring and spending as much time outdoors as possible. These experiences were made even more special by Keshet’s amazing paraprofessionals, who were not only supports but true friends. They took her on endless walks outside, encouraged her independence and shared so many joyful moments with her that meant the world to Emerson—and to us.
And while Fridays are often everyone’s favorite day of the week, Fridays held a special place in Emerson’s heart. She especially loved Fridays because she looked forward to the Rabbi’s music, which filled the space with energy and celebration. Those moments captured so much of what made Keshet feel like home, rooted in a deep sense of community and warmth.
Keshet is more than a school—it is a community built on inclusion, respect and a deep belief in every individual’s potential. Emerson’s experience is a reflection of what happens when people lead with kindness, intention and heart.
As Emerson looks ahead, we are grateful that her journey with Keshet continues. Next year, she will be part of the Keshet Transition Program in Highland Park, allowing her to remain in the supportive,and nurturing environment that Keshet so beautifully provides. Knowing that Emerson can continue to grow, learn and thrive within the Keshet community means everything to our family.
We are profoundly grateful to everyone who is part of Keshet and all who support its mission. The care, dedication and humanity shown to Emerson will stay with us forever. We feel incredibly fortunate to be part of such a remarkable community, and we will always be thankful for the role Keshet has played—and continues to play—in Emerson’s life.
Thank you, Keshet, for helping Emerson shine and congrats to all the 2026 graduates!
