This fall, after attending the High Road School of Wallingford for five years, 11-year-old Jayden will start sixth grade in a public school setting. His journey is a testament to his resilience and determination, and the transformative power of specialized support, says the person who knows him best – his mother, Michelle.

Jayden faced challenges that made traditional classroom settings difficult, such as trouble focusing, constant frustration with learning, being misunderstood, and issues with navigating transitions such as changing classes or working with multiple teachers. He expressed his emotions through tantrums, which often included throwing objects and being physically aggressive.

“Dread would fill my entire body when the phone rang during the day because I knew it would be the school calling to say Jayden did this or Jayden hurt someone,” says Michelle. “I almost lost one of my jobs because I had to keep leaving to get my kid. That’s when I decided I needed an overnight job so that I could be available during the day for Jayden.”

After a rocky start in preschool and kindergarten, administrators told Michelle that her son would be better suited in a school for students with special needs. So, she toured a couple of schools and decided the High Road School was the right environment for her family.

“It just stuck out to me,” Michelle said about The High Road School of Wallingford. “It stuck out to me how much the staff and teachers cared about the students. I knew I was going with the High Road placement.”

From the very first day, the High Road School staff embraced Jayden with open arms. They took the time to understand his unique needs, creating a customized education plan that catered to his learning style, says Michelle. This individualized approach was crucial, as it allowed Jayden to progress at his own pace while receiving the attention he needed. The small class sizes and one-on-one support were instrumental in helping him develop both academically and socially.

One of the most significant aspects of Jayden’s time at High Road was the collaborative partnership between the school and his family. They provided resources and guidance, empowering the family to support Jayden’s learning journey at home. This holistic approach made a world of difference, helping Jayden in all aspects of his life.

“They provided a nurturing environment where he felt safe and cared for,” says Michelle. “They celebrated his achievements, no matter how small, fostering a sense of confidence and accomplishment in Jayden. Their commitment went beyond academics; they taught our entire family coping strategies and social skills that were vital for his overall development.”

As Jayden prepares to transition back to public school for the start of the new school year, there is a palpable sense of pride and excitement within his family, as well as with the learning community from which he is graduating. The progress he has made at High Road School is remarkable. He is not only more academically prepared but also equipped with the social and emotional tools needed to succeed in a new environment.

As he embarks on this new chapter, we celebrate his achievements, wish him well on his education journey, and look forward to his continued growth and success.