Cover Story
Helping Hand In 1st grade, Bryan Riley could walk. By 7th grade, Bryan had metal rods inserted in his spine for support. Now, in 9th grade, Bryan needs a power chair to get around. Bryan Riley has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, a degenerative genetic disease. While Bryan’s mobility continues to decrease, his passion for education and love for robotics grows. Bryan is a member of the FIRST Robotics Team at Spruce Mountain High School in Jay where teacher Rob Taylor says he thrives, competing recently with the school’s team at an event in Lewiston. “Throughout all of this, Bryan has maintained a positive attitude and has continued to be the gifted student and wonderful friend that many in his school and community have come to know,” said Taylor. Taylor has been Bryan’s mentor since he entered school. When he struggled to walk, Taylor pushed a wheel chair behind him for support.
“There was no way in hell he was getting in that chair, he's the most independent guy,” said Taylor. When Bryan missed a lot of school because of his illness, Taylor found an alternative way to get him the instruction he needed and craved. “He’s made all the difference in the world,” said Bryan’s mom Tina of Taylor. “When you talk about kids reaching their potential, you need the right person to do that and Rob has been that person. Most kids in Bryan's situation fall through the cracks but Rob and his school picked him right up. They have been instrumental in making sure no barriers exist—they knock them down at every turn—Rob has been the leader the whole way,” said Tina Riley.
Bryan Riley 12
Maine Educator • June 2015
So, when Bryan lost most of his strength and mobility in his upper body, unable to even give a high-five or a fist pump, it was no surprise to anyone that teacher Rob Taylor stepped up again, and this time he brought his local association with him—the need now was far greater than before.
