[/media-credit] Aram Compton poses with Joe Monsen at a student event.
This is the first time in many years of Orem High’s history that a Special Needs Representative has been on student council. The positivity between the special needs program and other students is currently at an all-time high, as proven by this historical change.
Aram Compton was elected last year. Since then, his stage presence has been noted in several assemblies and promotional school videos. Each time Aram gets shout-outs and standing ovations.
Marie Glahn, the Special Needs instructor, said this encouragement is due to exposure. Special needs students participate in classes along side other students. Further, in the Peer Tutor class students learn how to help students with special needs. In Peer Tutor, each student has a partner they focus on mentoring. Communication, social, and practical skills are emphasized. Together students strengthen their abilities.
Marie Glahn continues, “My area is the only class in high school where your focus is not on you. […] People catch on to what’s important about life when surrounded [in a selfless environment].”
Such interaction has an impact on the school in general. One peer tutor, Lily Day, says that her positivity toward her partner helps her be positive towards all students at Orem. While not all students have room in their schedules for peer tutor, Best Buddies is a once-a- month club students can join to interact outside of school. Students can talk to Marie Glahn to sign up.
Emma Jacob
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