Tyler
When Tyler came to Eliada’s after-school program, he was a child who often struggled to manage his anger. He walked through the doors with a fierce look on his face that seemed to dare his peers and teachers to do something he didn’t like. He was known to throw temper tantrums at the drop of a hat, and anything that didn’t go his way would likely result in an angry outburst. Afraid of change, Tyler couldn’t tolerate disruptions to his schedule. He constantly blamed others for his bad behavior, and couldn’t take accountability for his actions.
Over the years, Eliada’s afterschool staff worked with Tyler and his unique needs. They recognized a caring, intelligent child beneath Tyler’s tough exterior and knew that it would take consistency, love, and discipline to break through his defenses. Though he often fought the strategies they used to reach him, Tyler came to love the staff as much as they loved him.
His peers also have come to appreciate Tyler. As he has overcome the mountain of anger he initially struggled with, Tyler has grown into a responsible and mature young man who can take responsibility for his actions and act as a role model for younger students to do the same. He has particularly been a role model for his sister Syerra, who also experienced many of the same challenges that Tyler worked through during his time at Eliada.
Today, when Tyler arrives at Eliada, it is with a smile on his face and a positive attitude. He enjoys playing baseball and football with his peers and looking out for younger children. The young man who once had such difficulty in relating to others now has many friends who happily greet him each day.
Congratulations, Tyler! We are all so proud of you and look forward to seeing you continue to learn and grow.