Oct. 9, 2024-- High School East teachers Rachel Barry and Colleen O'Donnell attended a DEAM (Disability Employee Awareness Month) awards event at Ocean County College Oct. 8. They were there to celebrate John Malone, HSE Class of 2023, who graduated from the school's 18-21 Multiply Disabled program.

Upon graduation, John interviewed at Panera in Toms River and was hired. He started out cleaning tables and taking out the trash, but has since been promoted to the kitchen. John's hard work, success, and ability to overcome obstacles ultimately motivated his employers at Panera to nominate him for DEAM recognition.

The teachers were invited to attend the event by John's family.

"Brie and I want to thank you again for how much the 18-21 program helped John," wrote Dad. "The program championed for him to be included in work opportunities. Those experiences and his life skills class have allowed him to be mostly self sufficient."

Congratulations, John! Keep up the great work.