Damar Charter Academy student heading to UIndy in the fall

A couple of years ago, Cassie Wolfe’s life changed dramatically. A teenager on the autism spectrum, she moved from her grandmother’s house and rural schools in South Carolina to her aunt’s house and a big-city high school in Indianapolis. Though she was still passing her classes, she was struggling in her new school.

“There was a noticeable backslide,” said her aunt and guardian Amy Munguia. “The school was just pushing her along through an IEP, but she wasn’t thriving.”

But now, after moving to Damar Charter Academy, Cassie is graduating and heading to the University of Indianapolis in the fall.

Damar’s public charter school provides intensive, customized educational programs alongside behavioral support services for students with developmental, intellectual and/or behavioral challenges.

Cassie first started thinking about college in Laura Hinz’s class on life skills, which helps students learn how to navigate the world and prepare for their future. They go on weekly outings, learn things like banking, driving and using public transportation, as well as explore options for life after high school.

“I’m very fortunate to be in this role,” Hinz said. “There are no teachable moments when we’re only teaching to the test—in my world, those teachable moments, I run with it.”

She also has the flexibility to help students like Cassie consider college as an option.

“Cassie has exceptional family support and a great personality,” Hinz said. “She is a self-motivator and a self-advocator.”

Cassie said, “I didn’t know if I have the right mindset to go to college, but my great-grandmother encouraged me to go. Some of the schools I explored didn’t have special programs for people like me. I don’t look disabled, but I am disabled.”

But the University of Indianapolis has the Build program, which is designed for people with disabilities that affect their learning. It provides academic, social and emotional supports for students.

“Mrs. Hinz got me interested in the program and my guardian, Amy, thought it would be a good fit,” said Cassie.