A Positive Call Home: Trevor Finds Autism Support

For years, parent-teacher phone calls meant only one thing for Dawn: Trevor was having trouble at school.

Trevor is a bright, caring teenager who is on the autism spectrum. In traditional public-school settings, packed hallways, loud classrooms, and other sensory challenges could become overwhelming for him, sometimes leading to misunderstandings and high-stress situations. Trevor faced frequent disciplinary referrals and suspensions, while his anxiety increasingly worsened. Dawn began considering homeschooling, as it was the only way she felt she could keep him safe.

Then they found High Road School of Santa Rosa.

Finding Autism Support That Fits Trevor’s Needs

With smaller class sizes, predictable routines, and dedicated behavioral specialists in the classroom, the school offered the exact structure and empathy Trevor needed to feel understood. Now, when he becomes frustrated, staff members provide support and guidance in the moment, helping him work through the situation while still holding him accountable.

A Positive Call Home

A few weeks into Trevor’s first semester at High Road, Dawn saw the school’s number pop up on her phone. Her stomach dropped, and her mind raced: What did he do now? She answered, expecting to hear about a problem.

Instead, the voice on the other end was warm: “We just wanted to call and tell you what an amazing student you have.”

Dawn was caught completely off guard, even asking if they were sure they were talking about Trevor. She had received positive phone calls about her other children, but never Trevor. This one brought her to tears. When Trevor got home that afternoon and heard the news, his face lit up with a massive smile.

Looking Ahead With Confidence

Today, 16-year-old Trevor looks forward to going to school every day. He has made good friends, earned a student leadership role, stopped taking his daily anxiety medication, and gained the confidence to dream about his future. After earning his high school diploma, Trevor plans to pursue his passion for auto mechanics and blacksmithing.

When asked what advice she has for other parents seeking the right educational setting for their child, Dawn emphasizes the importance of partnership: “Advocate for your student to get that referral, and then stay involved. Get to know the teachers and keep that communication open. They go alongside the parent to help, building a stronger front so your child knows that even when life gets scary, they’ve got this.”

To parents who feel overwhelmed, Dawn offers a message of comfort and hope: “It has been one blessing after another. He is in the right place, and it’s been an answer to prayer. I appreciate all the hard work they do because they really care about his success.”

Hear Directly From Dawn

Watch the videos below to hear Dawn share her perspective on Trevor’s journey, the challenges they faced, and the positive impact High Road School of Santa Rosa has had on their family.