Bynum School recently reflected on the success of its Smash 2025 Tennis Tournament, held at the Midland Country Club from October 15-16. The school attributed part of this success to the sale of artwork created by one of its students.
The private nonprofit institution, which serves special-needs students, shared a video on October 18 featuring Juan Carlos and Angelica Gaona, parents of a student artist. In the video, they discussed the positive impact Bynum has had on their daughter’s life.
Angelica Gaona said that Bynum is more than just a school; it is her daughter’s “happy place.” Juan Carlos agreed, saying that Bynum allows their daughter to feel loved and acknowledged.
According to Angelica, much effort goes into tasks that many consider simple. “It’s a big deal, and we celebrate every little milestone,” she said.
Juan Carlos described these milestones as victories. “I think over time, the journey changes you as a parent,” he said. “It makes you stronger. It makes you lean on the Lord a lot more than you normally would, but it’s a beautiful journey I wouldn’t trade for the world.”
One reason the Gaonas chose Bynum was for its educational opportunities and classroom sizes. Angelica noted that the classrooms are spacious enough for their child and equipped with resources to support her needs.
According to Juan Carlos, his daughter receives more than an education at Bynum. “It’s a sense of belonging … knowing that she belongs, that’s one of the main reasons we decided Bynum was the right school for us,” he said.
He encouraged others to visit the campus to witness how Bynum significantly improves its students’ lives.
Proceeds from the tournament will support Bynum School’s initiatives in providing individualized education for special-needs students. The funds will also aid adults in job training and life skills acquisition, offer tuition assistance grants, provide on-campus therapy for qualifying students, support vulnerable community members, and facilitate professional development through research-based programs.