Aubrey’s Story: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities

It was overwhelming for Aubrey at first. 

Transitioning from the quiet of home-based services to Little City’s Center for Education introduced her to a world of classrooms, students, and staff she wasn’t used to. She struggled to communicate and manage emotions triggered by the new experiences and stimulation. 

“She was pretty scared coming into a new school and being around new people. She didn’t have the skills to help her be in a school,” said Imani Roberts, Aubrey’s social worker. “She’d display some aggression and had a hard time with emotions.” 

Aubrey began in the THRIVE Program, designed for students with the highest level of support needs. Small classrooms, one-to-one support, and a half-day schedule helped her adjust. 

Over time, it became clear that she could be independent and make significant strides when given direction and space to work. For someone who once relied on constant support to regulate emotions, this was a major transformation. 

“I didn’t work with her right from the beginning, so I was really surprised to see how independent she was and how good she was at following directions based on her history,” said Kevin Medema, Aubrey’s Board-Certified Behavior Analyst. “She still has things to work on, but she went from always needing that physical contact from other people to help regulate emotions to doing it pretty quickly on her own.” 

Though only in seventh grade and at the school for less than two years, her progress has been so remarkable that she is on track to thrive in her home school district’s special education program. 

“Based on the progress she has made and the skills she has developed, I have no doubt she will move past the need for Little City and be able to go to school in her home district,” Kevin said. “She’s progressed so quickly and has done such a great job here.”