The Reach for the Stars Learning Center recently celebrated a major milestone with the graduation of four students. The hard work and tremendous progress of these children, was a true reason to celebrate.
In 2005, Barbara Matalon and Nancy Levy, while working with autistic children in a Sunday program, saw the community’s need for a school for children with autism.
Their husbands, Dr. Bob Matalon and Alan Levy assisted in raising the necessary funds to get the school started. Through their hard work and dedication, Reach for the Stars became a reality.
“Thank you for being here today. Our children are now ready to spread their wings. They would not be soaring without their wonderful teachers,” said Barbara Matalon.
Educational Director Sharon O’Neill presented each student at the school with special achievement awards, for their progress all year.
“When you reach for the stars, you will find yourselves there. We will always be there to share in their futures,” she said.
The four graduates sat by the stage, proudly adorned in caps and gowns. Each graduate addressed the crowd, of classmates and family members, with speeches they wrote themselves. Through continued hard work, the children will now be mainstreamed. Each wrote of what they would miss at Reach for the Stars, as well as what they learned. One boy poignantly read a farewell to his friends telling them how much he will miss them.
Many came to the school without the ability to speak, read or write. Their dedicated educators made this day a reality. In appreciation to the teachers and therapists, the families of the graduates presented them with a plaque in their honor. Walking through the halls of the school, and watching how each child is cared for specifically to meet their needs, you can feel the warmth and dedication.
You can’t help but to be enlightened watching the children reach for the stars, each in his or her own way.
Thank you to Mark Greenberg for the beautiful pictures.
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Randi Shomer is a community member, mother of four children and a freelance writer for IMAGE Magazine.
