Students with Autism Celebrate Achievement

      Wearing Cap and Gown During Stepping Stones Event

 

The annual Spring Celebration musical at Stepping Stones Center in Indian Hill on Thursday (May 15) included the first 12-grade completion ceremony for the new Step-Up program for students with autism.

Eric Cain of Hartwell  and Frank Tolliver of Westwood donned caps and gowns and received their certificates of completion of 12th grade from Stepping Stones’ Step-Up coordinator Pam Schimweg.  

The students are now eligible to transition to the adult portion of the Step-Up program. Step Up started four years ago for students with autism who have been removed from typical school classrooms because of their challenging behaviors. It is the only program of its kind in the region.

Step-Up is a unique educational alternative that includes peers, social involvement and a school atmosphere where the student can succeed. Each student works at his or her own pace and ability level. Students receive one-on-one attention in an environment that encourages communication, positive behavior, physical activity, academic and cultural development and social skills.

The completion ceremony concluded the annual Stepping Stones Spring Musical featuring performances by participants from all programs, including toddler, preschool and adult day programs for children and adults with an array of disabilities. Music Therapist Meghan Watkins staged Goldilocks and the Three Bears, with songs ranging from a Teddy Bear lullaby by the toddlers to a Beatles song by a chorus of adults.

Stepping Stones’ Camp Allyn campus in Batavia holds its Spring Musical at noon, Monday, May 19.

Stepping Stones Center is a United Way partner agency and has a tradition of filling gaps and meeting needs no one else meets. It started the region’s first summer camp for children with disabilities in 1963. This year’s summer camp sessions start on June 15 and include day and residential programs to children and adults. It is accredited by the American Camp Association. Stepping Stones programs work to increase independence, improve lives and promote inclusion for children and adults with disabilities.

For information on programs or volunteering: www.steppingstonescenter.org or call 513-831-4660.