Imagine a small boy sitting in an office, listening and looking out of the window, and watching his classmates play.  This was not the first time 8-year-old Jonathan Romero had been separated from his peers for causing physical harm.  This was not the first time he was a bully.  Jonathan’s mom, along with the school administration, feared that he would hurt someone else.

In January 2018, Jonathan and his mom enrolled in HPAL’s Get It Straight Program.  During a 6-month period, mom and son were involved in youth and parent training and intense case management sessions.  According to Jonathan’s mom, “We very much appreciate how dedicated the GIS staff was.  I learned how to be a better parent and support my son in and out of of school.”  Jonathan was able to see how his “wrong choices” were negatively impacting him, his friends, and his family.  HPAL is happy to report that Jonathan was named his school’s “Student of the Month”.  He is now back on the school playground, having fun with his school friends, and no longer bullying.  Congrats Jonathan!