By Cindy Adams

When Shaun Warren came to Roanoke Minnick, he came with a history of documented behavioral issues and negative interactions with educational staff. But it took just one principal to recognize that Shaun wasn't defiant, he was lost.

Minnick educators were familiar with Shaun's disruptions, outbursts and refusals from his previous school records. They soon discovered his skill at running away, fleeing school grounds multiple times, leaving his mother wondering if this was yet another failed placement.

"He was doing okay in most settings," explained Michelle Warren, Shaun’s mom. "I knew he was capable. There was just something about school."

Michelle, Shaun's IEP advocate and Minnick principal Becca Bays began investigating with fresh eyes. As they did, they started believing his defiant behaviors actually communicated desperation.

"Ms. Bays shadowed Shaun for a week," Michelle said. "She recognized that he couldn't do what other students his age could academically. When frustrated, behaviors quickly followed."

Finding what was happening with Shaun was like searching for a needle in a haystack. Yet, Becca methodically observed and eventually discovered his behaviors weren't triggered by past trauma, as previously thought, but by his inability to retain information and accomplish assignments. When she examined his records closely, his IQ tests confirmed her suspicion that beneath the behavioral smoke signals was an undiagnosed intellectual disability.

"Shaun’s new class has been transformative," Michelle said. "Most kids his age aren't excited to go to school, but he is!”"

Shawn is now reading. Before, the mere mention of reading would prompt a meltdown. Now, his response is "let me try it."

On the adapted curriculum, Shaun is developing essential skills and working toward specific goals. He has one-on-one learning and practice time around each of these goals and supportive accommodations as needed. He has also learned how to request a break when frustrated instead of shutting down and how to ask for help rather than giving up.

"Shaun is making great progress," said CarDesheia Anderson, Shaun's new teacher. "I tell him every day that all he has to do is try. We are always here to help. Shaun is a phenomenal student, and it is a pleasure teaching him and helping him grow."

Shaun's new placement has also allowed Michelle to advance her career. Previously confined to jobs that accommodated her frequent need to leave at a moment's notice for Shaun, she has now accepted a promotion.

"Minnick educators truly care, and their dedication has made a major difference in our family's life," Michelle said. "We were often told that Shaun would never hold a meaningful job. Becca tells us he is good at this and he’s good at that and there will be many opportunities available to him."

Sometimes it takes keen eyes and intuition to discover hidden gems waiting for someone to look from the right angle. Then comes a glint. The tiniest adjustment reveals the shining treasure that was there all along, its brilliance now on full display.