Y.A.L.E. School’s Transition Program Fosters Student Success

Cherry Hill - The educators at Y.A.L.E. School, a private school serving students with autism, Asperger’s, ADHD and other social learning challenges, are celebrating the accolades recently received by Matthew Brennan, a 2016 Y.A.L.E. graduate.

The American Staffing Association recently honored Matthew as the Engineering, IT and Scientific Sector All-Star. Upon graduating from Y.A.L.E., Matthew began a contract position at a national telecommunications company as a QA tester and quickly advanced to an IT automation expert. He recently secured a permanent full time position there as a data analyst. Matthew began his career journey in IT through a collaboration between Y.A.L.E. School and Rangam, a staffing services recruitment company committed to inclusion for people with disabilities and veterans.

Prior to joining the employment force, Matthew was a student at Y.A.L.E.’s Cherry Hill Campus, where he explored his technology talents as a member of the robotics team. As a student representative nominated by staff to serve on the school’s advisory board, he gained experience presenting ideas, constructing plans and implementing solutions throughout the school year within a team of peers and administrators.

Peggy Chapman, assistant director of Y.A.L.E. School, observes that giving students purposeful opportunities to cultivate interests and showcase talents has strong future benefits.

“Students with disabilities need to enter the working world with experience, self-confidence and the conviction that they are ready to compete,” observes Chapman. “Effective transition preparation is a hallmark of Y.A.L.E. School, and success stories like Matthew’s show its value to young people and families.” She adds, “Matthew absolutely made the most of his time at Y.A.L.E. and we are all incredibly proud of him for earning this well-deserved honor!”

During the award ceremony, Matthew expressed his gratitude for Y.A.L.E. School having helped him find employment. Rangam President, Hetal Parikh, extended his support to Y.A.L.E. School offering assistance in helping students access future employment through his company.

Y.A.L.E. School is a state-approved private school serving students with autism spectrum disorder, Asperger’s syndrome, social learning challenges, ADHD and other disabilities. Since 1976, school districts and parents have relied on Y.A.L.E. to educate students who need more than public schools can offer. Today, 560 students with disabilities are placed by 80 area school districts, and attend at no cost to parents. For more information and to learn more about Y.A.L.E.’s innovative transition programs for individuals ages 18-21 go to www.yaleschool.com.