Tamzyn’s Growth and Independence at High Road School of Wallingford

Supporting Student Growth and Independence

When Tamzyn started attending the High Road School of Wallingford two years ago, she struggled with emotional dysregulation and behavior challenges. The transition from her previous school was not easy at first, but through her time at High Road, she has come to realize that her teachers are truly supportive of her growth.

Academic Progress Builds Confidence and Independence

Over the last six months, Tamzyn has made remarkable progress, becoming a 4+ student, the highest step a student can achieve. This milestone reflects her new confidence and independence, both in and outside of the classroom. Academically, Tamzyn is thriving, making strong gains with mastery of IEP goals and progress with her behavior intervention plan

Developing Independence Through Daily Coping Skills

Tamzyn regularly uses coping skills to help her stay focused in the classroom. She’s great at using adult support and advocating for herself, clearly vocalizing what she would like, needs and when she wants to try something on her own. She lights up while walking through the hallways, happy and smiling, and she has earned the trust of the staff to do so independently.

This growth has not gone unnoticed. Tamzyn’s classroom staff describe her progress as mature to excelling and kind. “Tamzyn is always helping friends instead of telling them what to do,” said Ms. Carrano, Tamzyn’s teacher. “She’s independent, thoughtful, generous and loving.”

Life Skills and Responsibility in the School Community

One way Tamzyn demonstrates her helpful nature is by supporting the school community – she assists with bringing the snack cart around the primary and middle school side and by working in the transition coffee shop. Through her responsibilities in the café, Tamzyn has gained valuable life skills, including cooking and sequencing skills such as properly using coffee machines and preparing hot chocolate step-by-step; customer service skills that emphasize being kind, polite and better communications with others; and responsibility as she has to request and maintain key safety for the snack closet.

Student Growth and Independence Through Community Service

Recently, Tamzyn and her peers participated in a service project supporting the Wallingford Animal Shelter. The class created pictures to send to the shelter, helped deliver donated items, toured the facility and engaged with the staff there.

Tamzyn feels that every staff member she knows has been supportive in helping her succeed. She especially enjoys welcoming new students, noting that they help her become a better friend.