Homecoming King
A senior at Coolidge High School, Leland is now fully included for all
of his classes. He is also very active in extracurricular activities.
In addition to being elected Homecoming King, Leland represented Coolidge
High School in the state Future Farmers of 
America
finals and became a representative with the Arizona Department of Education's
Arizona Transition Leadership Team. This team is dedicated to support
youth and young adults through their transition years of 14 to 22. Leland
also works as a youth mentor in the local Head Start program.
|
Visit the Arizona
Department of Education website to learn more about the |
Exceptional
Student Transition Services along with other resources available
within the Educational Services and Resources division.
 Ann
Jones reaffirmed what others have come to see in Leland, that is "Being
able to overcome obstacles and not letting anything stand in his way." |
Moving Forward
Through his own hard work and the support of his grandparents, his teachers, his therapist and classmates and the advocacy of professionals like Cece Michalegko, Leland now has plans beyond high school. Starting his higher education at a community college and eventually transferring to a four-year college, and opening his own web site design business are just the start of Leland's future plans.
When asked about Leland's strengths, Ann Jones reaffirmed what others have come to see in Leland, that is, "Being able to overcome obstacles and not letting anything stand in his way."
As impressive as any of these achievements are, perhaps Leland's self-advocacy
is the most impressive. For the past two years Leland has actively participated
in his IEP meetings. He meets with all of his teachers at the beginning
of the school year to discuss his strengths and needs, review his accommodations
and answer any questions. 
