Teacher consultant, Sarah Hresko, shared a story about a student who recently exited the special education program. Sarah is a teacher consultant for students who are deaf and hard of hearing. Read what Sarah wrote below!

"Ashton Maynard is a 5th grade student at Hart Middle School. Ashton was born with a moderate to severe sensorineural hearing loss. He wears a hearing aid and a cochlear implant. Ashton advocates for his own needs in the classroom and is able to tell others with confidence about his hearing loss. Ashton is a great student to have in class. He attends to the teacher, is respectful, completes his work, and works well with his peers.

In the past Ashton has received speech services. He has also received direct services from myself, Sarah Hresko, the teacher consultant for students who are Deaf and hard of hearing. Working with Ashton over the past 7 years has been such a positive experience in my career. When I met Ashton he was struggling academically. It has been truly amazing to see Ashton's progress over the years. He has made significant academic gains, and he is currently on the honor roll. It is bittersweet to exit Ashton from special education services. Ashton is a wonderful role model for children with hearing loss and I know that he will continue to amaze us all."

At the West Shore ESD, we're passionate about walking with students of all needs and abilities, and are always glad to celebrate alongside our students and families! Congratulations, Ashton, and thank you for sharing, Sarah!