Jesse Audix is a tall and tenacious student at Homestead High School, and Àutism is part of his everyday life. Jesse and his aide Ms. Diane described Àutism as “a disorder that causes a disconnect between the brain and the body. Jesse’s brain might be thinking ‘don’t do that’ and meanwhile his body already did it. It’s very frustrating and overwhelming. [Jesse has] no way to filter out all the extra sights, sounds and smells of his world. His body is constantly on sensory overload.”

Since Jesse is non verbal, it’s hard for people to know his wants and needs, so Jesse communicates through a letter board.

Ms . Diane is a one-one aid with Jesse. “It’s a rollercoaster most days. I never know. moment to moment.” She shared that Jesse has taught her about love, patience and determination. Ms Diane has watched Jesse grow and succeed and has been through Jesse’s ups and downs. To help Jesse complete his homework, Ms. Diane writes for him.

Jesse is treated just like any other student at Homestead, and Ms. Diane pushes Jesse to do his best in his classes. She helps Jesse interact with students and teachers; she never gives up on him.

Jesse has two brothers: Daniel and Jason. Daniel has a different bond with Jesse than he does with Jason. Daniel said, “I feel more responsible for Jesse than I do for Jason. Like most brothers, they like to wrestle and laugh together. Daniel said his friends love Jesse and treat him like a rockstar.

His mom is the most important person in his life. Jesse typed his explanation why using his communication board: “because she helps me to be more determined to be a person with the right priorities.”

His favorite school subjects are English and history. Jesse is a very smart and determined student who is in regular education classes. Jesse tries his best at everything. To start his school day, he does yoga. His favorite activity in gym is the parachute.