Two seniors at Sport and Medical Sciences Academy have displayed outstanding kindness, compassion, and perseverance while conducting their Capstone project. Angie Echevarria and Rihana Foote are working with children on the autism spectrum for their capstone, inspired by their younger sisters who both have autism. In addition to volunteering at CONNECTicut Families, a center for children with autism, Angie and Rihana applied for a grant to purchase a Kebbi Robot, an educational robot that helps children on the spectrum learn facial expressions, body movements, and communication skills. Their first attempt at the grant was denied, but the two students persevered and were awarded a grant on their second attempt. Angie and Rihana are currently receiving training with the robot so they can hold sessions for their sisters and other members of the community.
Angie and Rihana will also be featured in an upcoming “Great Kids” segment on WFSB with reporter Wendell Edwards. Keep an eye out for that story!