In Springfield Local Schools, we take pride in our mission to support the whole child—academically, socially and emotionally. But sometimes, a story reminds us that our work reaches far beyond curriculum or instruction. It reaches into the heart of family life, of advocacy, of resilience.
Recently, Springfield Local Schools’ Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer Ryan Lockwood and his family were featured in a media story that gained national attention. The spotlight was on a customized Ford Bronco—affectionately named Bluey—built for Ryan’s daughter, Evie, who is non-verbal and autistic. While the vehicle has been at the forefront, it’s the deeper story that matters most.
April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month—a time to share, reflect and uplift the voices of individuals and families affected by autism. For the Lockwood family, the journey has not always been easy, but it has been filled with love, strength and moments worth celebrating.
“My family is beyond grateful to receive media coverage about our daughter Evelyn’s autism diagnosis during Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month,” Lockwood shared. “Like many families of children with disabilities, we, too, have our good and bad days. Know that you are not alone in the struggles that come with raising a child with disabilities.”
That simple truth—you are not alone—is at the core of this story. It’s what moved a plant manager in Michigan to pause the high-speed rhythms of automobile production and prioritize building something special for a teenager in Ohio. It’s what continues to move us as a school district to support every child, every day, in every way.
The story is a reminder that the world can, and should, make space for neurodiverse voices. “I want the world to adapt to my daughter’s uniqueness and not the other way around,” Lockwood said. “The world around is surprisingly accommodating, and we’ve met many great people along the journey.”
Through his openness, Lockwood has ignited conversations not only in the Ford production plant—where workers took extra care and precision in assembling Bluey—but also in homes and hallways across our community.
“Never be afraid to share your personal story,” Lockwood encouraged. “For years, I felt like the only dad struggling with an autistic child— even though I know it’s not true. In the last couple of weeks, I’ve had many other parents reach out sharing their personal stories. I know now that I’m not alone.”
At Springfield, we believe deeply in the power of that connection—parent to parent, educator to family, student to community. Every child’s success is worth recognizing, and for families like the Lockwoods, that includes celebrating what they lovingly call “flare-up free days.”
“Even the smallest success is worthy of celebration,” Lockwood emphasized. “We celebrate each ‘flare-up free’ day with immediate praise, love and attention. It costs absolutely nothing to say these four simple words: ‘I’m proud of you.’” In public education, we have the privilege of “riding” beside families through the triumphs and the challenges. Lockwood’s advice to other parents resonates deeply: “If you find yourself or your family struggling with some aspect of your child’s disability, do not hesitate to reach out to your public school district. Most public schools have a team of individuals on staff who can help with supporting your child’s behavioral, physical and cognitive needs.”
We are proud to be that team for all families who trust us with their child’s learning journey.
This month and every month, Springfield Local Schools stands committed to inclusion, empathy and building a culture of understanding for all students. We invite our community to reflect on stories like Evie’s—stories that shine a light on the everyday beauty, struggle and joy that accompany life with autism.
To parents who may be walking this road: you are seen. You are supported. And you are not alone.
“Please do not hesitate to reach out to me to have a parent- to-parent talk about autism,” Lockwood offered. “I welcome hearing your own successes and challenges.”
You can connect with Lockwood directly at ryan lockwood@ springfield -schools.org.
At Springfield Local Schools, we are reminded of what really “drives” us on a daily basis: compassion, connection and the belief that every child, no matter their ability, deserves to be celebrated.
