Where every light matters
Kaleidoscope Crew brings inclusion to life at
By Ciera Balfe
» Austin Prep Class of ’27
Austin Prep has taken a bold step toward living its Augustinian mission with the launch of the Kaleidoscope Crew, a new program that employs adults with disabilities to support various school departments.
The initiative, developed in partnership with BrightBridge Neurodiversity Workforce Partners, reflects the motto, “With each unique light, together we shine,” a phrase chosen by students and faculty last year.
The program’s name was inspired by the kaleidoscope’s ability to transform individual fragments into a unified, radiant design.
“Just as the shifting colors and patterns of a kaleidoscope form one radiant design, the Kaleidoscope Crew represents how the distinct gifts of every individual combine to create something extraordinary,” Head of School Dr. James Hickey shared in a recent email to the school community.
The collaboration with BrightBridge aligns with the Austin Prep commitment to Veritas, Unitas, and Caritas, as well as the Augustinian belief that “God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.”
That fitting quote from St. Augustine was included in Dr. Hickey’s email and further emphasizes that the program transcends being labeled as just an employment initiative; it is also a verification of the inherent dignity of every individual, created in the Image and Likeness of God.
According to the Special Olympics website, “Only 44% of adults with IDD aged 21-64 are in the labor force,” a statistic that underscores the inherent urgency of programs like the Kaleidoscope Crew.
BrightBridge’s mission to empower individuals with differing abilities mirrors that of the Austin Prep goal of forming students with Augustinian-like hearts and a deep compassion and sense of empathy.
For Marla Pascucci-Byrne (aka Mrs. P), a crucial faculty member of the Art and Design Department, the program has brought both practical support and emotional fulfillment. She recalls
Austin Prep
her first meeting with Casey O’Donnell, a crew member who assists with costume organization for arts productions such as “The Nutcracker.”
“Meeting Casey was a really meaningful experience,” Mrs. P said. “We connected right away. He has bright blue eyes and a glowing smile. We had so much in common because he’s a dancer too, and he performs in ‘The Nutcracker’ with his company, too.”
O’Donnell’s involvement backstage during last year’s performance was a highlight for Mrs. P, who emphasized how his presence added a new layer of joy and connection to the school community.
The program’s impact extends beyond the arts. Assistant Director of Technology Todd Ackerman said he has witnessed firsthand how Mia
Kruppa and Leia Brown, two of the Kaleidoscope Crew members, have brought energy and organization to the Tech Department.
“They’ve helped tidy up our space, refill paper and toner, and are great with people who come in for tech help,” he said.
“Their curiosity about how the equipment works was really genuine,” he added. “You could see they were proud to be contributing.”
For Mr. Ackerman, the program’s greatest success is its ability to create a welcoming environment.
“When someone walks into the Tech office and is greeted right away, it sets a positive tone,” he explained. “It helps people feel comfortable asking for help.”
The Kaleidoscope Crew goes
beyond filling roles; it is Austin Prep’s first step in creating a more inclusive future for students, faculty, and crew members. Mrs. P said she sees the program as a living embodiment of Austin Prep’s values.
“The Kaleidoscope Crew is all about unitas,” she said, articulating that “together, we’re connecting our school community with new friends who make Austin an even brighter place.”
She urges students to take the initiative to foster inclusion.
“The very simplest ways can mean the most. Just start by saying ‘hello,’ introduce yourself, and welcome our new friends to the community,” she said. “Be inclusive and treat others with respect, patience, and kindness.”
Mr. Ackerman echoed this
sentiment, noting how the crew’s presence has softened some barriers and humanized the ideas of disability for students and faculty alike.
Mrs. P said Austin Prep’s “students have Caritas in their hearts,” adding that “connecting with people from the Kaleidoscope Crew can show them that diversity and inclusion are important in our everyday lives.”
As the program enters its first full year, both Mrs. P and Mr. Ackerman are optimistic about its growth.
Mrs. P implies that she envisions future collaborations with the Crew and students, which will be an exciting addition to the theater program. Mr. Ackerman hopes to expand the program into other departments where structured, routine tasks could benefit from the crew’s contributions.
COURTESY PHOTO
Mia Kruppa, a member of Austin Prep’s Kaleidoscope Crew, assists in the Tech Department as part of the school’s new initiative supporting adults with disabilities through meaningful employment and community inclusion.
