Michael’s Growth at the NWCA at High Road School

Early Challenges and Safety Needs

Michael first enrolled at the Northwest Center for Autism at High Road School as a 4-year-old preschooler in October 2022. During his first year, most days were marked by escalation, including frequent work avoidance through sleep and periods of self-injurious behavior that required the team’s full support to help him regulate.

Early on, Michael relied exclusively on a stroller, and later, a scooter, to transition safely through the building. Walking the hallway was too overwhelming and unsafe for him. Each morning, he entered the school and immediately completed five laps on his scooter up and down the ramp.

Building Structure Through Visual Supports

To help Michael’s growth progress and build safer routines, his paraprofessional at the time, Ms. Selena, introduced a scooter contingency map. The visual plan required Michael to walk safely to the bathroom and remain regulated before earning a scooter ride. If he became unsafe, he could try again later. The map quickly became a foundational support: Michael understood the structure, and over time, his safety and consistency in both the classroom and bathroom improved.

Increasing Walking Independence

As he mastered these expectations, staff gradually increased walking opportunities to preferred locations. Eventually, the scooter no longer needed to stay stationed nearby. When Michael returned for Extended School Year (ESY) in June 2025, the shift was dramatic – he walked into school independently and went straight to the classroom, ignoring the scooter that once defined his day. Today, he uses it only occasionally for sensory breaks. He now navigates hallways safely without holding an adult’s hand, often carrying his favorite blanket tucked over one arm.

Visible Growth in Communication and Daily Regulation

Teachers and clinicians say the progress is visible in every part of his day.

“Michael is smiling more than ever,” said his teacher, Ms. Theresa. “He has more moments without his helmet, he uses his communication device meaningfully, and he even tells us when he wants his glasses on. Before, the device was something he would just throw.”

Social Development and Peer Connections

His social development has been equally notable. Michael, who once kept his distance from peers, now seeks them out. This week, he shared a laugh with a classmate and playfully nudged him toward a bag of marshmallows – an interaction that would have been unthinkable a year ago.

Improvements in Self-Regulation and Outdoor Play

Michael’s ability to self-regulate has also strengthened. He once required the full team’s support to calm down during escalations. Now he often settles independently by rocking on the swing with his blankets. Outdoor play, once avoided, has become a preferred activity; he now pushes himself on the swings, demonstrating both confidence and physical independence.

Relationship Building and Consistency

Staff members credit part of Michael’s progress to his increasing engagement with others. “He’s building relationships now,” said BCBA Ms. Bethany. “He’s seeking connections and showing that he cares about the people around him.”

Consistency has also played a key role. “Making sure he recognizes staff and feels anchored by familiar faces has been really important,” said Assistant Teacher Ms. Alexis.

Academic Growth and PEAK Achievements

Academically, Michael’s growth has been remarkable. After previously being removed from PEAK programming, he has now mastered 10 PEAK programs, including four full programs during the four-week ESY term, with at least two rounds of 10 stimuli each.

“Staff patience and meeting him where he was made all the difference,” Ms. Bethany added. “We continued to increase expectations as he was ready, and he kept rising to the challenge.”

Continuing Michael’s Growth Progress

Today, Michael is thriving, often giggling, smiling, and engaging with those around him. His teachers describe him as fun, playful, and full of personality.

The transformation from a child who once avoided eye contact to one who now seeks connection, communicates his needs, and moves confidently through his day reflects the powerful impact of strong teamwork and belief in his potential.

Michael’s team is excited to see what he accomplishes next.