Education
Bill Barry, Rock Haus Foundation administrative director, said one of the most underserved groups in Texas is those diag- nosed with an Intellectual and Developmental Disability, or IDD. The Rock Haus Foundation is a nonprot organization that prioritizes connecting New Braunfels’ students and transitioning adults diagnosed with an IDD to the resources they need. Barry said that individuals with an IDD have di culty in areas such as learning, language, behavior and physical challenges, not just those with one specic condition. “Our job is to help teach them,” Barry said. “To learn and understand what’s available and to get our community working together to be able to meet those needs.” The big picture Barry said individuals with an IDD have di culty in learning, language, behavior and physical challenges, not just those with one specic condition. Employees of the nonprot host a variety of community events and workshops, which aim to reduce the stigma surrounding those who have an IDD. The Rock Haus Foundation oers a variety of enrichment programs, such as music, art and dance classes and social events. “We also have a big community wide dance,” Barry said. “It’s amazing, everybody comes in, the music is blasting and most of our people look forward to it.” Rock Haus Foundation supports local students
The Rock Haus Foundation is located at 511 E. North St. in New Braunfels and has plans to expand its campus.
COURTESY ROCK HAUS FOUNDATION
Assessing the need Barry said the number of students with an IDD in New Braunfels ISD and Comal ISD has necessi- tated the growth of the Rock Haus Foundation. New Braunfels ISD had 1,481 students utilize special education services in the 2023-24 school year. In the 2024-25 school year that number increased to 1,628 students, according to an email from NBISD's Director of Communications Michelle Harwood. Comal ISD also saw a similar uptick in stu- dents using special education services. In the
The nonprot also has a parent advocacy group that educates families on resources avail- able in Comal County in addition to networking and emotional support opportunities through- out the year. “This isn’t just about individuals, it’s about individuals and their families as well—it’s very important that those two go together,” Barry said. Additionally, a service providers coalition brings together healthcare workers in the area to help compile resource guides for families to utilize.
PRCA Rodeo Thurs/Fri/Sat 7:30 pm • Backyard Bull Riding Sun 2 pm Heart of America Shows Carnival • Live Music in the Comal Corral and Dutchman Den Live Stock Show • Games For the Kids
For More Details and to Buy Tickets
New Braunfels, TX Sept 24th-28th
www.comalcountyfair.org
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