Positive Outcomes of High Point Graduates Featured in NAPSEC 5-Year Outcomes Report

The 2006 NAPSEC Legislative Conference on May 4-5 in Washington, DC, will feature a "Wrap Up of NAPSEC 5 Year Outcomes Study" by Barbara Strickarz, High Point's Head of School, and Dr. Millicent Kellner. In addition, the vital role of special education services in the private sector will be presented to Congressional Representatives on Capitol Hill in an effort to support special education legislation.

Among the many graduates participating in the NAPSEC Outcomes Report, the following High Point graduate success stories were presented to Conference attendees and Congressional Representatives: 

Chris B, a 2001 graduate, had difficulty keeping up in public school due to a limited attention span problem, which was fueled by difficulties with social interaction. The person who turned him around was his teacher Don, who provided the one-on-one support that made all the difference. According to Chris, Don helped him realize that you have to be patient with people…you have to give people a chance… and what you give is what you get. So, if you give respect, you get respect. Other life lessons learned via support groups were: to take it one step at a time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Today, Chris is using his interpersonal skills as a waiter in a busy Italian restaurant. His dream is to continue his education in the nursing field, specifically trauma nursing in a busy hospital environment.

Bruce C. had behavior problems that were fuelled by teasing from public school students. He also had a tendency to run away. His teachers, counselors and therapy group helped to change these behaviors. He attended both the High Point Elementary and Adolescent Schools until his graduation. According to Bruce, his teachers focused on his specific needs and enforced the “no teasing” rule. It was important to him that High Point’s teachers did not allow teasing and made everyone feel equal. Reflecting on his High Point experience, Bruce shared that he would recommend it to any student who wants to overcome behavioral problems and gain self-confidence to get involved. It worked. He attended the Monmouth County Career center and learned supermarket skills which lead to a part-time job at ShopRite grocery store. Today, he has a full-time job as a service clerk at ShopRite. He is also an assistant usher at his church and enjoys square dancing and camping.

Kevin M. came to the High Point School because of his academic needs. He required personal one-on-one attention from his teachers in order to comprehend tasks and complete the required work. Kevin said High Point’s teachers helped him when he needed it most by taking the time to explain the concepts in ways that he could understand, especially his teacher Ann, who made the connection between academics and life skills. One of these life realizations for Kevin is that he’s not ashamed about who he is because there are many different people like him. The world can adapt – there is a place in the world for everybody. Today, Kevin works in the detailing department of Shrewsbury Hyundai/Chevrolet. He was hired at this busy dealership based on his five-year detailing experience at another dealership.

4/5/2006