The news is filled with stories about increasing mandates for public schools, the rare negative experiences, bullying, and lawsuits. Very seldom do the benefits get a shining spot in the lime light. In 2012, Howell High School introduced a program for students to have the opportunity to mentor a peer with special needs. This program was named T.I.E.S. which stands for Teaching, Interacting, [and] Encouraging, Students.