The Heart of Westview: Stories of Growth and Belonging

One of the most meaningful moments, year after year, at the Westview Fundraising Luncheon is hearing directly from a student or family whose life has been shaped by a Westview education This year, our community had the opportunity to hear from both sides of the Westview experience: Kelly and Robbie Frost, current Westview parents, and Jackson McGinnis, a proud alumnus who began Westview when he was just three years old

Kelly and Robbie shared their son Willie's journey. Diagnosed with autism as a toddler, Willie came to Westview with limited speech and difficulty connecting with others. Through years of speech and occupational therapy, patient guidance, and a community that truly understood him, Willie has grown into a confident, kind, and self-aware 10year-old.

"To be liked is nice, but to be understood? That's everything," Kelly said, capturing the essence of what made Westview the right place for their family.

Robbie shared, "This school has given our son so much more than just an education. It's given him confidence, belonging, and purpose."

Jackson McGinnis reflected on his own time at Westview. He spent all his early school years at Westview. From nonverbal at three to nine years later, when he played the Mad Hatter in the Upper School play, Jackson's memories at Westview spanned over nine years, including his participation in school sports and social clubs, as well as his contributions to classroom projects that helped build his communication and leadership skills.

“I was non-verbal and struggled with my motor skills,” Jackson shared. “But through hard work, and with the help of Westview’s teachers and therapists, I was able to overcome those early setbacks.”

He grew not only academically but also socially. He formed meaningful friendships and gained the confidence to advocate for himself. Now a graduate of the PATHS program at Texas A&M, Jackson will start full-time employment this fall at Westview as an Instructional Assistant. His story illustrates how early support and a sense of belonging can significantly shape a child's future.

"My parents say I'm a success story," Jackson said. "That success started at Westview."

Together, their stories reminded everyone that generosity at Westview's Fundraising Luncheon truly supports real families, real futures, and real change.