A Lincoln Public Schools
Library Services Production
An Introduction
Neurodiversity is the natural variation in how human brains function…
while often misunderstood due to stereotypes and misinformation, it is a fundamental part of human experience. In this Seat Beside You series, Neurodiversity: Our Inside Stories, we explore this topic through the lens of one family’s journey. Jennifer Frye is a Lincoln Public Schools early childhood educator and mother who first encountered the concept of neurodiversity through her professional education and work. Her understanding of the topic deepened significantly after her oldest daughter, Philomena, was diagnosed as autistic in the 6th grade. During this journey of self-discovery, Jennifer realized that she is also autistic. Soon after, the family learned that her younger daughter, Maggie, who had already been identified as ADHD, is also autistic. Our Inside Stories brings together their three unique voices, alongside friends, co-workers, and educators, to share the authentic reality of their lived experiences.
"Autism is an invisible disability. You don't know what my struggles are unless I tell you."
“
For me as a teacher, I think if I think about the individual and what they bring to the classroom and how we can all learn from each other… that allows us to view it a little more joyfully.
— Jill Oetken
Different Together
Jennifer Frye and her daughters, Philomena and Maggie are all members of the autistic community, each discovering their neurodivergence at different stages of life. Jennifer offers a unique perspective to this conversation as an Early Childhood Educator as well as a mother of two neurodivergent children. Dedicated to supporting young students, as well as her daughters, Jennifer understands how parents and teachers feel in finding and providing support. In this family interview, Jennifer, Philomena, and Maggie sit down together to share their personal experiences. By combining their roles as students, an educator, and a family unit, they provide an insightful look at what it means to live as a neurodivergent family.
Why I want to tell this story is because people need to know more about autism and females.
“
I have a blended view of the parent and the teacher perspective.
— Jennifer
Maggie
Maggie is an observer, learner, storyteller, and a friend. Sharing insights from her elementary and middle school years, Maggie puts into words the unique way she perceives and feels the world around her. As an AuDHD (autistic and ADHD) individual, she offers her lived experience navigating classroom and social situations that can be both confusing and challenging. Alongside Maggie, educators discuss their own learning journeys and the collaborative process of creating affirming environments and individualized strategies that allow Maggie to have a positive school experience.
I may be different, but I'm not incapable of doing anything that you're doing.
“
I think a majority of the time I was wishing that the world was different, but there were also a few times where I wished I was different.
— Maggie
Philomena
Philomena discovered her autistic identity in middle school. Now, a high school student, she shares her story to give voice to neurodivergent youth. Philomena highlights the challenges, support strategies, and accommodations that shape her educational experience. By sharing her journey, she demonstrates how a culture of acceptance and inclusion can transform the busy, often overwhelming world of high school into a place where neurodivergent students belong.
No one judges me because of my disabilities anymore. So I enjoy school.
“
Now it’s just a part of who I am.
— Philomena
Masking
Masking is a strategy that many neurodivergent individuals use, both instinctively and intentionally, to navigate social expectations or ensure safety in a world designed around neurotypical standards. Jennifer, Philomena, and Maggie discuss their personal experiences with masking and the vulnerability that comes with the decision to unmask. They share their thought processes behind revealing their inner worlds and sharing their authentic “inside stories” with peers and family.
I cannot count the number of times I have hidden who I was to be able to get into a room, to be able to get into a conversation, to be able to sit at a table.
“
We need to know that the other person sees our differences as strengths, not weaknesses.
— Jennifer
Classroom Calling
Jennifer Frye is an Early Childhood Educator at Huntington Elementary School. In this story from our series Classroom Calling, Jennifer shares the story of uncovering autism as an adult. Her unique perspective provides insight about working successfully with a team, leaning into strengths, and how autism isn’t an obstruction for adults or children seeking a positive, fulfilling life.
What do you do with the kid who wasn't what I expected? You love them and you figure out how to meet them where they're at.
“
You’ve just got to figure out where your strengths are and where you’re going to make a difference in life.
— Jennifer
Explore More Stories
The Seat Beside You is a video series with the premise that behind every student at LPS, there’s a story. With a better understanding of the person in the seat beside you, the stronger our schools and community become.
Education Equity
The Lincoln Public School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, age, genetic information, citizenship status or economic status in its programs, activities and empldoyment.
Accessibility Statement
Lincoln Public Schools is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for all persons, including people with disabilities. Learn more
