Tonight was a big event in Austin's life. For the past 2 months, Austin has been part of a gifted and talented program called the "Wings Mentoring Program". In the fall and spring, 25 students are chosen to work one-on-one with a mentor on any topic of interest, creating a project and then presenting it at a reception and then to their class. Unfortunately, due to severe budget cuts only 19 students were permitted in the program for the whole year. Austin's mentor, Mrs. Nancy Murphy, is an endocrinology nurse. She shared with Austin all the areas of her expertise and other topics she has shared in her many years as a program mentor. After some discussion, Austin decided he wanted to learn more about the heart. I wasn't sure this was the right topic for Austin, as he is VERY squeemish when it comes to blood. But in the end, it turned out to be the perfect topic! Austin was quick to pick up on how the blood circulates through the body, all its components, how to keep it healthy, etc. After 8 weeks, a reception is held for the students at the Board of Education where they are able to display their projects and answer questions. Austin made a model of the heart, which most was sewn (he loves to sew). He was able to correctly answer any questions presented to him about the function of the heart (his mentor was there to help if needed - but he didn't). It was an evening where Austin could be proud of himself and accomplishments. The next day, he made a presentation of his project to his class, mentor, teachers, health room nurse, assistant principal, and head of the Mentoring Program from the Board of Education! We are very proud of Austin and all that he has accomplished. I wish the school system had more programs like this one - and that they were ongoing instead of just one time. Many thanks to everyone who came to Austin's reception - Austin's mentor Mrs. Murphy, without her, a whole new world would not be open to Austin, to his teachers Ms. Rosin and Ms. Schultz who always show their support and to Aunt Tammy, who is always cheering him on.
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