Finding the Perfect Fit for Wyatt

For Jessica Evans, finding the right school for her son Wyatt was challenging. After difficult experiences during kindergarten, she knew he needed a supportive environment that could help him grow and engage with the world. Sierra School of South Mountain turned out to be exactly what Wyatt – and the Evans family – needed.

“What made me love Sierra School of South Mountain with all of my heart was the fact that we would be out in public and people from the school would shout, ‘Hi Wyatt!’ when they saw us at the grocery store, said Jessica. “There is a true, caring community in place at Sierra School of South Mountain and it has surrounded me with so much hope.”

At Sierra School of South Mountain, Wyatt has thrived in ways Jessica – a fierce advocate for her son and other children with autism – never expected. Wyatt, who is nonverbal, uses his Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device to communicate more effectively and has made great progress in activities like using the bathroom independently, a milestone his family had worked towards for years. Jessica attributes these strides to Sierra School of South Mountain’s dedicated staff and personalized approach to educating students with autism, which has helped Wyatt feel secure and understood, fostering growth in his social and play skills.

For example, Wyatt, who once struggled with basic play, has embraced activities like coloring, building and painting. These creative outlets have allowed him to express himself in new ways, connecting with both his teachers and his younger brother as he colors alongside him at home. Wyatt’s excitement for these activities marks a big change, giving Jessica confidence that he’s found a place where he can thrive.

The Sierra School of South Mountain community extends beyond the classroom, providing a network of support for parents like Jessica. She has found connection and camaraderie with other special needs families, easing the isolation that can come with parenting a child with autism.

“It can be very lonely being a special needs parent,” said Jessica. “I am one of those parents that wants to help and support others. I’ll help a mom struggling with her child who is having a tantrum and won’t get off of the floor. We need to help support one another and I am always introducing women from my moms’ group to Wyatt’s school.”

Sierra School of South Mountain has not only given Wyatt the structure and encouragement he needs to grow, but has also created a sense of belonging for the entire Evans family.