14-year-old Jessica McCartney was a high school student at Shadow Hills. Like other students, she’s highly involved; she gets good grades, earned a black belt in karate, and by the way, she’s autistic.

After watching high school movies and seeing how cheerleaders stand-out in schools, Jessica was determined to be part of the cheerleading squad.

Her mom was initially concerned that Jessica will be overwhelmed with the new challenge.  “She has to keep her grades up and she’s in regular classes with everybody else,” she explains.

However, the unstoppable teen has never let the challenges of autism limit her. “She’s been doing exceptionally well, and I’m very proud of her,” her mom also adds.

After trying out and making it on the squad, Jessica has been taking things in stride, learning how to become more social in the process.

“You would’ve never imagined, she fits completely right in,” explains one of her squad mates. “She’s just a good kid.”

As for Jessica, she continues being positive. “I love cheerleading.” She adds, ” And I love being autistic.”