TEXARKANA, Texas -- On Wednesday morning, a group of adults with developmental disabilities at Opportunities Inc. completed a six-week course to help develop further leadership and teamwork skills.
The B.L.O.S.S.O.M class was led by Miss Texarkana Elizabeth Smith, who created the curriculum to pass on skills she learned.
"Becoming the best version of yourself is different for everyone," Smith said. "I wanted to make a program that is accessible to everyone, whether you're a kid in kindergarten or someone with Down syndrome -- you're able to become your best self and live your dreams."
B.L.O.S.S.O.M. is an acronym for seven principles --
B: Believe anything is possible.
L: Live every day learning new things.
O: Optimize bad situations.
S: Strive to do your best always.
S: Surpass your expectations.
O: Obtain your goals and do what you love.
M: Maintain your vision and plan.
Smith taught the class once a week at the nonprofit to a group of about 20 adults with developmental disabilities. Smith gave her final lesson, which focused on having a positive mindset in the face of difficult times, with a gift to remind her students that she would always be there for them.
"Each of you has a little flower pot," Smith said. "Written on the side is your goal, so as you see your plants grow, you can show your growth too."
Willie participated in Smith's class and said he had a good time and learned lots of good things.
Adult services director Zoe Nakashian said the response to the class has been incredibly positive.
"The clients have loved it," Nakashian said. "They've been asking me every week when the class is, so they will definitely miss her (when she goes to college)."
Smith embraced and took photos with every student, spending extra time with a fellow Texarkana Independent School District alum. After they each went to their next activity, Smith lingered behind and reminisced on her time with them. She spoke about a bond between herself and an older woman who she became close with after her own grandmother passed away.
"It has been a wonderful experience," Smith said. "I love each and every one of them. I'm thankful that I got this opportunity to be here."
Miss Texarkana Elizabeth Smith speaks with B.L.O.S.S.O.M. student Gary about how she is going to be a Razorback in the Fall when she goes to college, Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022, at Opportunities Inc. in Texarkana, Texas. (Staff photo by Mallory Wyatt)
B.L.O.S.S.O.M. student Willie shows off the potted plant he put together to help him grow with his goals Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2022, at Opportunities Inc. in Texarkana, Texas. Willie said he had a good time and learned lots of good things. (Staff photo by Mallory Wyatt)