 Eight-year-old Chase Smith diagnosed with Level 3 nonverbal autism has experienced a remarkable transformation since relocating at his new school. Chase coming here and Miss Hall not giving up on him has completely, it's changed his life. With her unwavering dedication, Miss Hall has nurtured a safe and inclusive environment for Chase, treating him with the same love and encouragement as any other child. He had never gone to school for a full day. He had a hard time at his last school so we we had to relocate. You know when Chase first came it was not roses and it was rough. When Chase first stepped into her classroom the road to progress was not easy, requiring Tom dedication and a development of a strong teacher-student relationship. He's come so far from where he was initially it's like a different kid. I remember her saying that she was invested in him and she wasn't giving up on him. And to just hear about that she didn't even know us when we first came here and to say that she's invested in him. It as a parent it means I can't even put into words how much it means. Cancer it's a very scary word but an outstanding treatment facility was here at home. I was led to the Lawson Cancer Center. As a nurse practitioner at the Lawson Cancer Center we are champions for our patients. I am so happy for Robert. The treatment worked. Last year all Chase wanted for his birthday was to have friends. Through Ms. Hall's dedication and guidance Chase's wish has become a reality. He's made friends here. He's had the opportunity to make friends because he goes to lunch. He gets to go out to the playground. He gets to be around other kids. The positive changes Chase has experienced at his new school have begun to transcend his educational environment and influence his behavior at home. I always want to make sure that when something happens to me that Chase is going to be okay and Ms. Hall is giving him the best chance. It makes me feel good like knowing that Bethany appreciates it and that she will take my advice when I give it to her to try to help her at home because you know if we can bridge that gap between school and home and keep it consistent it will help him. Chase's story serves as a powerful reminder of the influence educators can have on their students' lives. I know she doesn't think it's his hard time seeing it but she's uh he has so much joy now because of her he doesn't walk into school he runs in the school. I love you Chase. I love you Ms. Hall. I love teaching. I've got seven years left so I hope to like you know touch a lot more lives in that seven years. Reporting for Mountain Top News, I'm Ethan Miller.