Meet Owen: From the Sidelines to Center Stage

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From his very first days, Owen’s path was not an easy one. Born with complex health challenges, he was slow to reach his childhood milestones. With help from a team of specialists, a series of diagnoses would soon emerge. However, even with years of medical treatment and rigorous therapies, his behaviors were increasingly difficult to manage and his needs were mounting. 

School was its own battle. Frequent hospitalizations kept Owen out of the classroom, and when he was there, he was overwhelmed and unable to process his emotions. His behaviors escalated until, in high school, he found himself being frequently monitored away from the other students. With his learning significantly impacted and unable to participate in class activities, his mom knew it was time for a completely different path. 

She turned to an advocate, and together they toured TERI’s non-public schools in Oceanside. What happened next told Owen’s mom everything: Owen latched on to the place, jumping into the ball pit, and declaring he didn’t want to leave. Something clicked.

At TERI’s Learning Academy, a dedicated BCBA worked alongside Owen. The road wasn’t without its raw moments. With trained staff and evidence-based approaches, the team focused on understanding the why behind every behavior. Owen began to change: emotional appropriateness and regulation, frustration tolerance, flexibility, and significant academic growth.

Five years later, he graduated from TERI and moved on to an adult transitional program (ATP) in the Temecula school district. He worked 2 hours weekly at Walgreens, Armstrong Nursery, and his personal favorite - Chick-fil-A through the WorkAbility Program. His shining moments were being honored with an award for his achievements in the ATP program and being nominated to speak at the Temecula School District’s Community Action Committee, where he shared highlights of his experience. 

The boy who faced one challenge after another and struggled navigating the public school setting, is now a confident, creative, compassionate adult who is everyone’s cheerleader. He enjoys being out in the community and has even braved rides at Disneyland and the SD Fair; something which in the past was overwhelming and not possible.

His years at TERI Learning Academy opened the doors for Owen, and his family, and gave him opportunities for a brighter future.