Jeremy was born into a loving and nurturing home, with parents who continue to care about his happiness and well-being. At a young age, Jeremy was diagnosed with autism and suffered from severe anxiety and depression. Jeremy demonstrated struggles in interacting with his peers. These struggles worsened through elementary school of which Jeremy would act aggressively, run out of class and sometimes off school campus.
Due to his struggles, Jeremy was transferred from his local elementary school to the San Diego Center for Children Academy to receive the proper supports needed to address his behavior. Jeremy made positive strides while attending the Academy over a year and was then transferred to a different school. Over this time period, Jeremy unfortunately reverted back to his behavioral struggles and was then admitted to the Center’s Residential Treatment Program at 9-years-old.
When Jeremy first came to Residential, he experienced additional difficulties in learning and following direction. Jeremy realized during his 9-months in receiving therapeutic treatment and residential care that his misbehavior was not helping him, so he decided to make a conscious effort to follow directions and change his life around.
“One of my favorite childhood memories is returning home from Residential. I cannot imagine what I put my parents through during this part of my life. I know I caused them so much trouble. It was a very stressful time for everyone in my family. Despite this stress, my parents always stuck with me and helped me along the way. I am extremely grateful for this.”
Since returning home as a young child, Jeremy has remained a student at the Academy. Jeremy still had his struggles in the beginning and would isolate himself and not participate in school activities. However, now as a high school senior, Jeremy has blossomed into a mature student who considers himself a life-long learner and takes responsibility for his words and behavior.
From the young child he was of having difficulties in learning and interacting with others, Jeremy now holds a high GPA, and is an active member in the Academy’s team athletics and National Honor Society, which recognizes students for their excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Jeremy credits his positive change to his parents, family and the supportive teachers and staff of the Academy.
“Over the years, I have learned more about myself. I know my strengths and weaknesses. At SDCC Academy, I learned how to control my anger. I want to take this skill into my future to help me succeed. I also learned that I know how to persevere. When I am determined to do something, I will not stop until I complete it. This determination will help me succeed in my future.”
The positive change that Jeremy has experienced over the past years has been remarkable. Jeremy’s maturity, sportsmanship and leadership are not only inspiring to staff of the Academy, but also to his peers who see him as a role model. Jeremy has big plans on the horizon of attending college and entering the healthcare field after he receives his high school diploma this June. We congratulate Jeremy on all of his accomplishments thus far and know there are many more to come in his bright future.
*The child’s name has been replaced in order to protect their identity.
