Spotlighting an Awesome Soon-to-Be Graduate at Lara Academy

Meet Ismael, an outstanding member of the Lara Academy Class of 2025! This graduating eighth grader is known for his hard work, openness, and ability to achieve whatever he sets his mind to! Ismael is proud to share with others that he is autistic; for National Autism Acceptance Month in April, Ismael spoke about what autism means for him, how autism is different for everyone, and how important it is to never underestimate others.

“Ismael has grown immensely throughout his time at Lara,” says Assistant Principal Patricia Hernandez. “He has gone from having a 1:1 SECA and being in resource classes to becoming fully independent and no longer needing a paraprofessional at all. This year, he is graduating at the top of his class! We are so proud of him.”

This fall, Ismael is headed to his dream high school: Lane Tech College Prep! Learn more about him and his journey below.

What do you like doing inside and outside of the classroom?

I like science and social studies, but my absolute number one subject is math because there are patterns everywhere. This year, I joined the drama club and I love it because it’s like a little community inside of a community. We’re doing Alice in Wonderland, and we’re almost finished! My character is a March Hare.

What is one highlight from your time in elementary school?

I love helping teachers with the incentives. Last time, we did bingo for the little kids and I was helping roll the numbers and select the winners.

What is something you’ve accomplished that you’re proud of?

I am really proud of finishing Lexia, which is a program that helps students learn reading. It took me over two years, and I started slow, but I sped up and I felt so relieved when I finished it!

What is one lesson you’ve learned that you can bring with you to high school?

If you work hard enough, you’ll get your rewards easier!

What about high school are you most excited for?

I’m excited to join the community. I will probably join their drama club and maybe a handball team or soccer team.

If you could describe your time at Lara in one word, what would it be and why?

Inspiring. At Lara, there are supportive rooms everywhere. If you ever need something, you can always go there and ask for help.