School is about to start for the county. For some students, however, this summer has been full of early mornings and day classes.

Clanton Intermediate was the place for special education kids to be this summer as many graduated from the “We Can” Summer Learning Capsule.

The summer program was created to help students with disabilities practice their classroom behaviors for the next year of school.

“Keeping the kids in a classroom environment helps them to understand how they have to act when school is in session,” said Dr. Benita H. Cahalane, Chilton County Board of Education special education coordinator.

This year’s group consisted of 18 students ranging in age from 4 years old all the way through 16.

Together the kids participated in arts and crafts and learning games. The kids were able to enjoy lots of one on one time with volunteers from local agencies that showed their support for education by donating their time and help.

“This program is really good for the kids because they are already ready for when school starts back and they don’t have to feel left behind or lonely when it comes time to sit in the classroom. They get to feel like part of the group, which helps them in coping with their own disabilities,” Cahalane said.

The community and Board of Education have been working to make the special education students in our county the best they can be to help in giving them a brighter future.

“These kids can do anything that they want to. We just have to help them in getting there,” Cahalane said.