Danelle Keyes

Danelle joined Waves in August 2022. Originally from Grand Rapids, MI, she lived in several parts of the country before returning to Tennessee in 2020.

Danelle’s passion for working with children and families began 17 years ago when her daughter was born with Down syndrome. As a parent receiving TEIS services, she experienced firsthand the impact early intervention can have on children with disabilities and their families. That experience changed the direction of her career and inspired her to learn more about early intervention and special education.

Danelle began her career in Special Education as a teaching assistant before returning to college to earn her master’s degree in Special Education. She went on to work in elementary Special Education as a teacher before joining Waves. She especially enjoyed working with parents and participating in IEP meetings, and she continues to value building relationships with families and supporting them throughout their child’s developmental journey.

Outside of work, Danelle enjoys gardening and growing flowers and vegetables, reading by the pool or at the beach, hiking, and traveling internationally to experience different cultures.

“14 years ago when my first child was born with Down Syndrome, my whole life and career trajectory changed. As a parent, the early intervention services I received provided me with support and a foundation to help my daughter. As she began school, it was important for me to give back to the community and I also went back to school and began working in special education.”