By Shelbey White

Lincoln North Star’s special education program is one of a kind; full of great students with tons of different personalities. One Gator has brought a new challenge upon himself and has made a fellow student feel like he’s just another one of the guys.

Junior Brook Bolles is seen periodically talking or walking in the hallways with freshman Kaycee Choma. Choma is part of the special education program and has a very outgoing and unique personality. “I started walking and talking with him in early January when he was up in the weight room one Monday because he waved at me and gave me a hug,” said Bolles. Behavior like this, especially from a well-known student, can be contagious in a good way. When students see someone they look up to or are good friends with being kind to other students and meeting new people, it tends to catch on. “A lot of my friends in Weight Training have noticed that he’s a cool kid and have come around and said ‘Hi’ to him and the other special education kids.”

Choma’s personality is unique just as any individual’s personality is. “I’ve learned he’s a really outgoing kid and he’s funny in his own way. He’s a really good dancer and he loves basketball,” Bolles said. “He’s always talking to the other special education students going ‘Hey that’s Brook! That’s my friend!’ Then the other kids will come up and get a little more proactive with other students.”

Getting to know Kaycee has made an impact on not just Choma, but on Bolles as well. “He’s made a very big impact on me, he’s a really cool kid! He can be shy sometimes but once you get to know him he’s really outgoing! It’s just cool to be around them it’s fun and they really look up to you!” said Bolles. “They just put a smile on your face when you see them and talk to them, they’re cool kids you just have to open up to them to really see it!” Be respectful to everybody, you never know when a simple gesture can make somebody feel important and special.