Deion Butler is a second-grade student at Early Beginnings Academy Charter School. He began attending EBA for preschool when he was 3 years old. Even when he was little, Deion was a kind and curious kid who loved exploring, building things, and singing songs. Our instructional team worked closely with his mother Dashaun to provide the support she needed after he was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Deion struggled with communicating his wants and needs throughout the day and frequently would repeat whatever words or phrases he heard. Although there were communication and social challenges, it was clear that Deion was bright, had a huge heart, and positive attitude. Deion has always been full of smiles and laughter, something that all the teachers, therapists, and staff at the school have come to love about him. 

Over the years, Deion has become one of our strongest second grade readers. He loves Pete the Cat books and can memorize entire stories from start to finish! Deion is still drawn to music and enjoys listening to favorite songs used in class for phonics, math, and science activities. He can memorize information quickly, especially when it’s put to music, and you can often hear Deion singing to himself while doing other tasks around the classroom. Everyone at UCO Miami knows who Deion is! His laughter is contagious and it’s impossible to not admire how both Deion and his mother Dashaun bring so much warmth and compassion into our school community. Dashaun is currently a parent member of our EBA Charter Board and continues to be a phenomenal partner to our school and organization. We are so thankful that Deion has been a part of our school family for the past five years and we can’t wait to see all his accomplishments in the years to come.