End-of-school celebrations are a special milestone for students across the region. And among them is Palmview State Special School graduate Liliana Suanez, 18, whose journey reflects the value of inclusive support.
Liliana, who was born with Down syndrome, is known for her strong will and honesty, her mum Rebecca Suanez says.
She loves music, singing, dancing, movies, theatre and swimming and “never refuses a hamburger and strawberry milkshake”.
Her week is full, with three personal training sessions at Future Fitness and hip hop and contemporary dance classes with the Madelaine Stuart Dance Company in Caloundra.
She also enjoys outings through Saircare’s weekend and holiday social club, though Rebecca admits she does not like “getting up before 11am”.
Liliana’s schooling began in mainstream education at Chancellor State College before she transitioned to Currimundi Special School at the end of Year 2.
“Her start in mainstream school was a success, but I felt special education was better suited to her long-term outlook,” Rebecca says.
Liliana later became a foundation student at Palmview State Special School when it opened in her Year 8.
Rebecca says the school created an environment where her daughter has been “encouraged, challenged and supported”.
“Their commitment to inclusion has helped her grow – not just academically, but socially and emotionally,” she says.
Liliana has worked hard to read basic communication and simple sentences, participate in whole-class lessons and become more independent in everyday routines.
“Each achievement might have taken a little longer, but when it came, it was incredibly rewarding – a reminder of how capable she is with the right support,” Rebecca says.
As Liliana’s graduation arrives, Rebecca says the moment is filled with mixed emotions.
“I am so proud Liliana has finished her school journey successfully, but also unsure of what the future holds,” Rebecca says.
“It’s a very involved process working out her options, and a much different journey to her brother and sister.”
A highlight of the year was the Palmview Year 12 formal, where six graduates celebrated.
“They danced up a storm with the DJ. There were so many smiles and so much laughter,” Rebecca says.
Liliana is already shaping her post-school pathway through Saircare’s work experience program. She thrives at a local childcare centre, where staff affectionately call her the “baby whisperer” and contributes to Micro Business Day by sewing tote bags for market sale.
During Disability Action Week from November 23–30, Rebecca hopes communities continue strengthening pathways for students with disability.
“Building inclusive communities is essential,” she says. “Young people like Liliana deserve opportunities to participate, grow and belong.”
