The Calais School believes every student has the potential to exceed their possibilities, and we are committed to nurturing that potential in every student. James Weakland is a shining example…

As a young child, James didn’t realize that a neurological disorder was shaping the way his body and emotions responded to the world around him. All he knew was that something felt different inside—something he couldn’t name or explain. When anger was triggered, it would rise up stronger than his ability to stop it, leaving him feeling powerless and confused. Even though he never wanted these outbursts to happen, they often took over, and what looked like a tantrum on the outside was, for James, an exhausting battle within himself. 

It wasn’t until James came to The Calais School in 4th grade and crossed paths with Mr. Vitaletti, Head of the Calais Counseling Department that he started feeling hopeful.  Mr. V not only believed in James, he gave him hope and the validation he needed to uncover what was actually happening to his brain and body. Together they determined that James’s outbursts weren’t caused by a power struggle like most anger responses and was in fact out of his control. This realization set James on a path of healing when it was determined that his behavior was neurological and could be managed with a combination of therapy, coping skills and medication. 

Calais proved to be the right environment at the right time. James also credits other Calais faculty members for shaping his journey. Music Teacher, Mr. Aquino, taught him to play the trumpet, sparking his passion for music. Behavior Specialist, Ms. Territo, showed him how to apply coping skills in everyday life. Science Teacher, Mr. Amaya, was a positive role model who encouraged him to make healthy choices.

With this strong Calais support system, James found his footing and eventually returned to his home district at Hanover Park High School. This spring, he completed his Senior Service Project and is now a proud high school graduate. 

James shares these words of encouragement to other students who may be struggling as he once did:

“There will always be fear of the unknown, but you’ll get through it. In my eyes, you never give up. Giving up means not trying, and it’s always worth trying.”

With a promising future ahead, James gratefully credits Calais for “saving his life.” Through individualized support in a nurturing environment—and the tools, skills, and knowledge to thrive—he finally found peace. As for the future, he hopes to pursue a career in the medical field.