Autism and Broadcasting
​​News from a Different Perspective

Schoolhouse Prep Network (SPN

SPN Political Commentatator Christopher Tellez
Autism is not a problem...It's a journey.
For these young men, their journey began as early as 18 months old when they were first diagnosed.
Meet the Wolfpack!
They are Awesome Teenagers with Autism!
PictureSPN News Crew
Schoolhouse Preparatory is a school for students with Asperger's Syndrome, Hi functioning Autism, and other learning differences. Many of these students are emerging journalists that only need an opportunity to get in front of the camera to demonstrate their talent. During the Summer of 2015,  I built for them a broadcast studio at Schoolhouse Prep.

I conducted a summer program for  these future journalists to teach them how to produce a student run news show, design the graphics, as well as use green screen technology. Through a few fundraisers, I was able to raise the funds needed to purchase the equipment needed to produce their show. I am presently the moderator for Schoolhouse Prep Network (SPN) and plan to train them to compete at the state level next year.
The Learning Links School
After much success with SPN Studios, I reached out to the Learning Links School to help them build a TV studio. The Learning Links School is designed for students with moderate Autism. This project brought with it more challenges because of the population of students I would be working with.

Follow our journey as we build the WLLS Studio!

Talking to my future News Crew about the plans for their studio.

Service

"Different is not less and sometimes it only takes one person to open the door to endless opportunities"
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The act of volunteering is more than just something nice that people can do. The impact one's service has on the lives that you touch is what really matters. Giving back to my community began before I entered high school. My service to children with special needs began in elementary school as I have volunteered in my parent's schools and non-profit organization. I have been raised in a world surrounded by children with disabilities, watching their struggles, admiring their parent's courage, and learning to appreciate their unique qualities.

​Since 9th Grade I have accumulated over 1000 service hours. I have taught, mentored, and supported young people with special needs and their parents. I have been able to make a child undergoing chemo smile and reassure them that they are going to be alright.

Over the years, I have dressed up as the Easter Bunny, Santa and Disney's Stitch to visit special needs children at their schools and those who are hospitalized. I have served as a peer mentor with children diagnosed with Autism to help them swim with the Dolphins and ride therapeutic horses. Giving back has made me humble, grateful for many things I often took for granted, and grounded in the things in life that truly matter.

As a journalist, I strive to look for stories that will impact my audience in a positive manner. I dare to profile persons who have had to live a life full of challenges who may inspire others to achieve greatness!

www.DrGigisRMUF.org            

Superheroes For A Cause

On January 11, 2017 I invited several of my Columbus Football Brothers to dress up as Superheroes and visit cancer patients at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami. The children were very excited to meet their favorite Superheroes and many stood outside the doorway waiting for us to arrive. However, it meant even more to us to be able to help these children forget for a brief moment the procedures and treatments they have to endure.