With the right support system, lots of hard work and determination to better oneself, anything is possible. Cendria Brumfield was referred to Academic and Behavior School (ABS) West by Brenham Independent School District and has made great strides in overcoming the challenges of her emotional disability and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
On May 21, Brumfield crossed the stage, received her diploma and was named class valedictorian as campus staff, parents, family and friends cheered her on. She was joined by a handful of graduates who also face their own trials with life skills or behavioral handicaps.
“You are all skilled, and I see that in your daily work,” Principal Jatata Hutton said to graduates during the ceremony. “As I look at you all, I see nothing but potential and possibilities.”
Educators described Brumfield as extremely reserved when she first arrived on campus, struggling to control her emotions or express herself to peers. When they learned more about her home life, they realized the teen had endured trauma and needed to be surrounded by women who showered her with love.
“Some of the other female teachers and I really took her under our wing and gave her all the extra love that she needed, and we quickly started to see changes in her behavior,” said Christina Aggison, Brumfield’s current teacher, who has known her from day one. “She has come a long way. Now, she can call out her problems or mistakes, apologize or say, ‘Let me breathe.’ She knows her techniques and uses them daily.”
While enrolled in the life skills program, students link academic lessons to real-world experiences through volunteer opportunities at the Houston Food Bank, Goodwill and partnering ISDs. The work creates a space for developing critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and job training.
That hard work paid off for Brumfield, who shared during the commencement address that she secured a job with Brenham ISD after graduation. She credits the opportunity to ABS West educators and staff who helped her achieve her potential.
“I’m blessed to have Ms. Aggison as my teacher; she was always nice to me and helped me,” an excited Brumfield said. “I want autistic students to know that if they are nice and don’t make bad choices, they can be like me, graduate from school and get a job.”
Brumfield looks forward to earning real wages, opening up a bank account and working with her new colleagues. She promised to return to ABS West to visit and serve as an inspiration and a reminder to students that anything can happen when you put your mind to it.