Submitted photo Trumbull County Educational Service Center students who attended an ESC classroom at Lordstown High School, from left, Christopher Foreback, Austin Forkin and James Davis, stand with their instructor, Nicole O’Neill. Although TCESC students typically participate in commencement activities at the school districts in which they reside, Foreback, Forkin and Davis were invited to participate in Lordstown’s May 31 graduation alongside their friends and classmates.

LORDSTOWN — Graduating from high school is a monumental moment for any student.

For Christopher Foreback, Austin Forkin and James Davis, the experience held extra special meaning. Even though all three were special needs students of the Trumbull County Educational Service Center, they were able to share the spotlight and celebrate earning their diplomas alongside the friends they made while attending Lordstown Local Schools.

Trumbull County ESC students typically participate in graduation at the districts in which they reside, explained Michelle Tul, TCESC Director of Pupil Services.

Foreback, Forkin and Davis, however, were invited to participate in Lordstown’s senior activities and May 31 commencement. All three are residents of Niles City Schools, but were students of the TCESC’s multiple disabilities class housed at Lordstown.

“Many of these students have attended school in Lordstown for several years and have developed meaningful relationships with peers and staff,” Tul said.

As a result, participating in Lordstown’s graduation was even more meaningful for both the students and their families, she added.

Lordstown High School Principal James Vivo worked with teacher Nicole O’Neill to include the three students. O’Neill, TCESC Intervention Specialist, taught all three students their senior year.

“They’ve attended here. They’ve made friends here and gotten to know the other students and the staff,” Vivo said. “Why shouldn’t they also celebrate here, at Lordstown, with all of us?”

O’Neill said the ceremony becomes “not just a formal event, but a community milestone that honors individual stories and the collective effort that helped the students reach graduation day.”

“The Trumbull County ESC Governing Board is incredibly proud of the accomplishments of our students and the work our staff does every day to help them meet and surpass their goals,” said TCESC Superintendent Robert Marino. “The board greatly appreciates the Lordstown community for embracing our students and for working in collaboration with the ESC to ensure our programs are successful. ”

All three students pointed out the significance of being able to graduate with their friends.

“That’s important to me,” Davis said. “To walk across the stage and receive my diploma and graduate with my friends.”

Forkin said he was happy to graduate, walk across the stage and get his picture taken with his family.

Foreback liked that he was among his friends and family.

“The students were recognized by the people who truly know them … their strengths, struggles, character, and growth,” O’Neill said. “Graduating in their district of service is special to students and families because it represents more than just earning a diploma, it reflects years of support, growth, and connection. Students are surrounded by the teachers, staff, classmates, and families who have witnessed their progress and encouraged them through challenges and achievements. That familiarity creates a sense of belonging and pride that makes the accomplishment feel deeply personal.”

All three students plan to secure employment now that they’ve graduated.

“These students have taught me the value of resilience and perseverance,” O’Neill said. “Watching them continue to work through challenges, build confidence, and make progress has been both inspiring and motivating. Their determination has strengthened my own commitment to creating a supportive and encouraging learning environment where every student feels capable and valued.

“Christopher has taught me to keep going and persevere. Austin has taught me never to give up no matter how difficult the battle is. James has taught me to always do everything with a smile. Even if it’s hard.”