The past eight years have been filled with joy for all of those who worked and interacted with Caleb Murphy. Murphy earned his certificate of completion of the CAP program, while surrounded by friends, teachers, and family on December 19.

“He has made so many accomplishments. He talks a lot more. That is a big thing for him. He asks questions… A lot of people with special needs will kind of get into the habit of responding to people all the time, but not seeking out [answers]; it is called self advocating. He has become a much better advocator for himself,” special education teacher Kaitlyn Martin said.

Martin, who has worked with Murphy for two and a half years, will never forget the times she has spent with Murphy.

“I really like it when he talks to me. He will just randomly come up to you and say something you are not expecting or respond in a way you are not expecting,” Martin said. “He has the best smile in the world. When he laughs at things it is super contagious. He makes people around him feel really good. That is what I will remember about him.”

At his graduation Principal Thomas Mead presented Murphy his certificate and now Murphy will be educated and assisted through the Department of Developmental Services, DDS.

“Caleb is going to [adult services] called JRI [Justice Resource Institute]. He will get some vocational coaching. He goes out to different sites and will work there. It is kind of like what he does now in the CAP program, but it is through them instead of us,” Martin said.

Murphy is known for his sweet disposition and his ability to make any situation lighter.

“He is hysterical and he is really curious about things. He loves people, socializing, and being active,” Martin said.