Last year, we had the privilege of talking to students, teachers, and families across the country in Room to Run. They shared stories of life-changing classrooms where great teachers honor students’ aspirations for the future and provide challenging, inspiring lessons every day. As we recognize Autism Awareness Month and the crucial work of special education educators and advocates, we return to one of those stories —that of Theresa Trowbridge, and her mother.
At two and a half, Theresa—who was non-verbal at the time—was diagnosed on the autism spectrum. Today, as an exuberant first grader, the little girl who three years ago wasn’t saying much more than “mom,” “dad,” and “juice” is considered on par with her peers, thanks to the help of a great teacher and a supportive school.
Click to listen to Theresa’s mother tell her story.
For Theresa Trowbridge, academic success—and from her mother’s perspective, independent living—once seemed almost impossible.
“She had about a dozen words in her useable vocabulary,” says Theresa's mother, Jamie Norlock. “That was our first clue that something wasn’t right.”
Theresa was diagnosed on the autism spectrum. “I thought, this can’t be. This isn’t my daughter,” says Ms. Norlock. “What really scared me was when I’m 90, is she still going to be living at home?”
Theresa started preschool in a program for students with special needs. The teachers there were perfectly nice, says her mother, but it wasn’t the right setting for Theresa.
“I don’t want to say it dumbed her down, but there wasn’t enough stimulation for her. Academically, she’s very intelligent."
Despite some anxiety about mainstreaming Theresa, Ms. Norlock enrolled her in Diedrichsen for kindergarten. Today, as an exuberant first grader, the little girl is considered on par with her peers.
From Ms. Norlock’s perspective, there’s no question that Theresa has excelled as a result of a great teacher and a challenging academic environment.
“She lacks on the social skills sometimes,” Ms. Norlock acknowledges. “But when it comes to what she’s learning, Theresa has benefitted from being held to higher standards.”
