Jonathan Lambertson, who received the President’s Award, was also acknowledged with an award from the American Legion.

Jonathan Lambertson received the President’s Award for Academic Excellence and was also honored by the American Legion at the IEA graduation. Submitted photo

By Michelle Bonner

Graduation day is a special time for any senior and their families. But for the parents of children with special needs who graduated on Friday, June 19, from West Hartford’s Intensive Education Academy (IEA) the day holds even greater significance, with the eight graduating seniors receiving more than just a diploma but validation that they conquered the challenges of their academics struggles.

Commencement speaker Lavonne Womack, an IEA Board member and parent of an IEA alumnus, reminded students, “Persevere even when things aren’t going well. Yes, there will be challenges, but there will also be great rewards.”

Eight students graduated from West Hartford’s Intentive Education Academy on June 19. Submitted photo

One of IEA’s graduates, Jonathan Lambertson, was recognized for outstanding achievements this past year, receiving the President’s Award for Academic Excellence, which was accompanied by a letter from President Obama. Lambertson was also acknowledged with an award from the American Legion for Courage, Honor, Leadership, Patriotism, Scholarship and Service.

“Jonathan is a brilliant young man,” says Head of School, Jill O’Donnell. “I can’t wait to see all that he will achieve.”

Through assessment and development of individualized education programs, IEA’s nurturing environment encourages each child to reach their full potential. IEA provides programs for students diagnosed with: Autism, Developmental Delay, Dyslexia, Mild Emotional Disturbance, Intellectual Disability, Specific Learning Disability, Visual or Hearing Impairment, Orthopedic Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury, Multiple Disabilities, and/or OHI-ADD/ADHD.

Gabriel Little shows off his diploma from IEA. Submitted photo

“I’m going to miss everything about IEA,” said graduating senior Gabriel Little.  “It’s the best school with the best people.”

About Intensive Education Academy

Since 1971, the Intensive Education Academy (IEA), a nonprofit, State of Connecticut-approved special education facility, has helped students reach their full potential through a nurturing and individualized learning environment. IEA currently serves students ages 5-21 from 29 school districts in CT and western MA. For more information, visit ie-academy.org, or contact the school at 860.236.2049.

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