“In 6th grade, there was a music class where one of our ASD students felt really overwhelmed; Mela stepped in immediately, befriended the student, and that was only just the beginning,” explains Wheeling Middle School Autism teacher, Mrs. Tiffany Barnes.
Mela, in addition to two other WMS 8th graders, Tegan and Cor’Dayzha, have a unique simulated workplace: they assist in the WMS Autism Classroom, and it’s had a profound effect on their lives. “It’s a different kind of work,” they explain, “Honestly, it’s so fun. Other people may not understand these kids, but to our ASD students, this is their normal, and we love them.”
“These girls are all so excellent,” explains Miss Tiff. While Mela’s experience began in music class, Tegan and Cor’Dayzha started assisting by volunteering for the WMS Autism Awareness Walk. Working with ASD students is now one of the favorite parts of their day. Mela plans to pursue a career in special education, Cor’Dayzha is interested in nursing, and Tegan remains undecided. Seeing them interact in Miss Tiff’s class shows that no matter their pathway, it’s most certainly bright!
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