When you first meet Christman, you notice his calm, easygoing nature. He’s quiet at first, someone who tends to hang back and observe. But get him talking about art or computers, and you’ll start to see that spark. Around people he trusts, Christman lights up, sharing his interests and letting his creativity shine.
In his early school years, Christman was making progress, but those around him began to notice he needed more. His family and educators saw his potential and also recognized that a traditional learning environment wasn’t meeting all his needs. He needed a setting that could support him in connecting socially and build on the strengths he already had. With that in mind, they pursued evaluations and worked closely together to understand what would help Christman thrive.
That process led them to the doors of ALL Academy. Christman’s mom remembers his first days at ALL Academy clearly, “The environment felt calm and student-centered. Teachers spent time with the students, really engaging with them and connecting in ways that felt genuine.” It was reassuring for Christman and his parents to see how easily communication flowed between staff and families. “They were always in touch,” his parents shared. “They took the time to really get to know him.”
Art became a meaningful outlet for Christman at ALL Academy, growing his confidence by the day. Soon, he was engaging in new ways and initiating conversations with staff and peers. These strides opened his eyes to what was possible for his future and he turned his sights to a new goal: attending college.
Since returning to public school, Christman has kept that goal top of mind in everything he does and uses the foundational skills that he built at ALL Academy to get closer every day. His transition back to public school was a shared decision guided by Christman’s progress, his goals, and his growing confidence in navigating new challenges. He’s now in general and special education classes, has become the highest-level reader in his class, and is exploring summer job opportunities with the support of his guidance counselor.
Reflecting on the journey, Christman’s parents see how much growth has happened for their son and their whole family. “Aspire taught us to focus on the positives and support Christman in ways that bring out the best in him,” they said.
When asked what they’d say to another family considering ALL Academy, they didn’t hesitate. “Christman found a place where he could grow into himself. He discovered his voice, his strengths, and his path forward. Every child deserves that kind of opportunity.”
If you’re exploring a more personalized, strength-based learning environment for your child, the team at ALL Academy is here to help. Visit allinc.org/educational-services to learn more or reach out with questions.