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School Becomes Like Family
Shimek Stokes-McQueen’s face lights up when you ask if he’s excited about his next adventure. The 22-year-old, will graduate on June 2 from Haynes-Inman Education Center, the school his mother, Khristy Scales, says that has been like a second family to him.
“They always included him in all the activities even though he cannot physically, independently do them. I know that made him feel so special,” she said.
Stokes-McQueen lives with cerebral palsy and can’t move his arms and legs. He communicates through a computer, but those challenges don’t stop his bright personality from shining through. While he may not be able to speak, he does have a head switch he uses to activate his computer.
“He answers questions and also programs it to say silly quotes and phrases,” said Scales. “One of his favorite things to do is collecting the money at lunch. He uses his switch to tell people to pay. He loves seeing everyone and being in the midst of everything.”
The computer can do more than just communicate. During his time at Haynes-Inman he also used the computer to operate machines and appliances, including computer games, power tools like saws and sanders, blenders, mixers and sewing machines. When asked about those experiences, he broke out into a giant smile.
His mother said one person who made a huge difference in Shimek’s life was his teacher, Christina Collins. “They just seemed to click as soon as they met, and they have been inseparable ever since. He carried the ring for her in her wedding some years back. I remember when he would have surgeries and have to be out for months, she would come to my home and have class with him so he didn’t miss anything. I definitely appreciate her and Haynes-Inman so much for that.”
Next year, Stokes-McQueen will start on a new adventure at Lindley College, and his mother says he’s excited to try something new and meet new people. “I hear they do a lot of outings, which I believe he will enjoy the most. He loves being out and about.”
Scales says she wants to encourage other families to take advantage of all Haynes-Inman has to offer. “Whether you have mild Autism or a more severe condition like Shimek, they definitely can help you grow and be successful. They treat every child like their own. They put 150% in everything they do. We will be forever grateful and will miss them so much.”