BGC Brief Spring 2024

Embracing Inclusivity

To the great benefit of Kern County, a remarkable leader is making waves in the realm of afterschool programs for intellectually and developmentally disabled (IDD) students. Meet Warcester “Cest” Williams, a program coordinator with a passion for inclusivity and a background in working with the unique needs of IDD children. Currently leading the new IDD afterschool program at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County, Cest is working hard to create an environment of joy, growth, and belonging for every child in the Club’s IDD program.

Cest’s journey into the world of special education began early in his career. Armed with a bachelor’s degree in speech/language pathology and audiology from the University of Illinois and a master’s degree in speech pathology from Southern Illinois University, in 1986 he came to Bakersfield to work in neurological rehabilitation. As a speech/language pathologist, Cest worked with children and adults addressing a wide variety of disabilities from articulation errors to traumatic brain injuries. After receiving his education credentials from CSUB, he served as a principal in the continuation schools, court schools, and community schools here in Kern County. Sadly, he commented, “many of the students in those programs have undiagnosed disabilities which contribute to their issues in the traditional school setting.” Cest also worked as the director of alternative education and the division administrator of special services with the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office. And before his retirement, he was a special education coordinator with the Panama Buena Vista Union School District.

One of the key components of Cest’s approach is customization. Recognizing that each child has unique abilities and challenges, he has implemented a personalized program that addresses diverse needs.

From sensory activities to adaptive games, every aspect of the program is carefully designed to nurture the individual strengths of each participant. “Since beginning to work here at the Club, I have been very impressed with the passion and dedication the staff has for the families and the community. I like the attention given to the programs for the students, allowing them the opportunity to be exposed to experiences that may not be available to them otherwise. Making the afterschool program available to the IDD students shows the commitment to the students and the community,” Cest said.

Inclusivity is not just a buzzword for Cest; it’s a way of life. He fosters an environment where neurotypical and special needs children play, learn, and grow side by side. The afterschool program has become a microcosm of a world where differences are celebrated, and friendships blossom irrespective of abilities. Cest stated that, “Including IDD students in the afterschool program is groundbreaking in Kern County. I am not sure that any of the afterschool options for IDD students allow the level of socialization and enrichment activities necessary for the overall growth of the students. I can see this program being a catalyst for other programs because what is being offered at the Club is desperately needed for the overall developmental growth of students with disabilities.”

As the program gains recognition, more parents are finding solace in knowing that there is a dedicated space where their children can not only be cared for but also flourish. Cest’s vision of inclusivity has turned the afterschool program into a beacon of hope for families who have often felt isolated in their journey.