ASU Prep Digital grad Austin Johnson is proud to join the Class of 2025
Graduation milestone: accomplished
By Stefanie Contreras
For five remarkable years, Austin Johnson has thrived as a student at ASU Prep Digital, benefiting from our accredited online school known for providing personalized learning experiences tailored to learners with a range of learning styles and special education needs.
This year, Austin proudly walked across the stage at ASU Prep’s commencement ceremony as part of the Class of 2025. His journey is a testament to the power of personalized learning, dedicated support from his family and Learning Success Coach (LSC) and his unwavering spirit and determination.
A tailored learning experience
Heading into eighth grade, he was looking for a school setting that could accommodate his special education needs. He chose ASU Prep Digital.
“My mom saw something about that program and she signed me up for it during COVID-19,” Austin shared. This decision opened doors to a virtual learning experience perfectly tailored to his needs.
Austin particularly appreciated “the interactivity of all the online courses and that I could go at my own pace.” He fondly recalls his favorite classes, a mix that speaks to his multifaceted interests: ALEKS for math, the intricacies of anatomy and chemistry and the creative lens of Digital Photography.
Support that makes a difference
Austin acknowledges the incredible support system that has guided him. “I want to thank all the awesome teachers for helping me to learn,” he said. “I also want to thank my speech and writing support therapists and, of course, the LSCs.”
He specifically calls out his LSC, Mrs. Parsos. “It felt great for me to be at ASU Prep Digital, and the most impactful person of my journey here would be all the teachers and my LSC, Mrs. Parsons, who has helped me a lot during my high school years. Mrs. Parsons, you are the most grateful person to me.”
Kelley Parsons, Austin’s LSC, speaks highly about Austin as well. “He is wonderful! They are celebrating in big ways for this huge accomplishment,” she said.
She said Austin’s story is significant. “Here is a young man who has defied all the odds of his autism diagnosis—non-communicative three years ago—and with the support of his teachers and family, has achieved his goal of graduating high school and moving on to bigger and better things. Such an inspirational story of a team of people coming together to help this young man achieve his dreams.”
Austin’s parents, Tom and Christene Johnson, echo this sentiment with profound appreciation for the special education services provided by ASU Prep Digital.
“Despite struggling with autism and speech language issues, Austin has progressed so dramatically since his first year at ASU Prep Digital, that we believe the intense curriculum was the ideal educational therapy he needed,” they said.
Austin’s parents attribute this remarkable growth to “the incredible communications by the IEP teams, teachers, the interface with the LSCs and all support services to include our team at home.”
As ASU alumni, they express their pride in the opportunity to witness Austin’s graduation at their alma mater, extending heartfelt thanks to everyone involved. On graduation day, Austin and the ASU Prep graduates walked across the stage at Desert Financial Arena on the Tempe ASU campus, and his parents proudly cheered him on.
For students with autism or other learning challenges like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or dyslexia, having a team of special education teachers, IEP teams and family support can transform their educational experiences.
Did you know there are free online education options available for learners with IEPs, including special needs students and those with autism or learning disabilities? Discover how online learning can support students from elementary to high school, providing a flexible and personalized way to help your child excel in their education from home.
Beyond the classroom
Beyond academics, Austin has a vibrant array of passions. He’s an avid follower of the World Ninja League and American Ninja Warrior competitions. He also enjoys playing classical piano and Cup Stacking, a Junior Olympic sport where his fastest cycle time is an impressive 6.697 seconds.
Looking ahead, Austin is filled with anticipation. “I feel really excited about graduating from ASU Prep Digital this year because my family is so happy about finishing up my senior year.”
After graduation, Austin plans to pursue some of his varied interests. “After I graduate from high school, I am going to take a certification of completion online course in SFX makeup on Online Makeup Academy because I have seen how special effects makeup is done from one of my favorite TV shows, Walk the Prank, and my favorite makeup artist, Jennifer Aspinall.”
He was also excited to attend the World Ninja League Championships in June as a senior gift from his family, who planned a road trip to the event. He said, “I am going to the World Ninja League Championships in person this year in Greensboro, North Carolina, at the Greensboro Complex to do photography and take action shots of the athletes.”
Your journey awaits
Austin Johnson’s journey at ASU Prep Digital is a powerful illustration of how a supportive and flexible learning environment that values personalized learning can empower students to not only overcome challenges but also to flourish and pursue their passions.
Congratulations, Austin, on this incredible achievement! The entire ASU Prep community celebrates your success and eagerly anticipates the amazing things you will undoubtedly accomplish in the future.
Ready to create a flexible and supportive learning environment for your student?
Enroll today and discover how ASU Prep Digital can help your child achieve their dreams.
