Graduation is a special moment for these seniors, who have overcome academic and behavioral challenges to make the dream of walking across the stage come true. Students are referred to TPC School from their local school districts to address the symptoms of anxiety, stress, depression, autism spectrum disorders, attention deficit disorder and other diagnoses that pose difficulties to learning in a traditional environment. TPC School’s special education program combines behavioral supports, academic instruction, therapeutic interventions and family support services. The goal is to equip students with the skills to successfully transition back to their community school, to a less restrictive program, or to graduate from high school.

In personalized tributes for each graduate, TPC School teachers and staff spoke of the students’ growth during their time at the school and their accomplishments. Presentations included examples of how students improved communication skills, overcame obstacles and encouraged their classmates. Staff described how students discovered personal interests such as music and theater and expanded their knowledge through senior projects.

Speaking about a graduate’s dedication to mastering a lesson in his tribute, high school teacher John Cippolini said: “As a teacher, there is no greater joy than to hear ‘I want to learn this—can you help me?’”

TPC School’s graduates receive diplomas from their local school district as well as certificates of completion from TPC School. Students’ post-graduation plans include continuing their studies at college and joining the workforce.