With the help of SSD staff, Ethan Rahn has become more independent, gained confidence and is finding his own voice. Now in his senior year at Lindbergh High School, Ethan has taken numerous honors courses and is in the St. Louis Regional Program for Exceptionally Gifted Students (PEGS). Along the way, Ethan has been receptive to support and information to help him overcome challenges and utilize his many gifts to become a successful, well-rounded student.

According to his speech-language pathologist, Ethan had great difficulty interacting with others, knowing how to have conversations, and understanding the give and take of social interactions. Never lacking in friendliness or humor, Ethan had a strong foundation on which to grow. Eventually he learned how to have more reciprocal conversations. When in person at school, he enjoys playing games with other students, including the card game he created.

Outside of the classroom, Ethan enjoys music, and he’s a member of the Lindbergh High a cappella choir and plays the piano. He also works and participates at the World Martial Arts Academy, where he earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. His position there also requires him to answer phones, keep attendance records, participate in online instruction videos, lead class warm-ups, and more.

Ethan has been accepted to the Missouri University of Science and Technology, where he plans to study aerospace engineering. He received an academic scholarship and has been invited to join the Honors Academy.