A Life-Changing Lap

Dublin residents were busy preparing for St. Patrick's Day festivities early Saturday. By 7 a.m., there already was a line outside Fire Station No. 16 for green pancakes. Folding chairs lined Dublin Boulevard to hold spots for the parade. The time had arrived for the city known for embracing green to show off its colors.

But at the same time across town, a small group of students, teachers and parents were preparing to witness an event one young man will likely never forget.

Robby Houghton, 18, is a senior at  and is autistic. His mom, Susan Houghton, said her son, who has always loved music, knows the words to every Disney song. 

Robby, and his fellow students in special education, have been allowed this year to leave their class each day to observe band class. 

"Everyone loves Robby, we all welcome him," said Dublin High junior , the drum major. "He is really positive and always happy to see everyone." 

Because of Robby's love of music, special education teacher Peter Dragula and music teacher wanted to do something special for him. So Everts set up a low-key event in which Robby would lead the band around the track Saturday.

"We've really been talking about this since October," said Everts.

In the two weeks leading up to the march, Shiell taught Robby how to play the role of drum major.

"To watch Willie work with him, it was just cool," Everts said.

Robby's parents, and his brother, Trevor, who is a sophomore at Livermore High School, said Robby practiced at home and talked a lot about the big day.

"I just couldn't believe it. It's not like I asked them. I mean, it was the school's idea. These students have just embraced him," said Susan Houghton.

Robby was given a band outfit, which he tried on Friday.

Everts said that when Robby came into the classroom in the drum major getup, everyone started clapping.

Then, early Saturday, Robby stood on the track in front of his fellow students. After weeks of preparation, it was time to march. His mace, or staff, in hand, Robby held his head high. His smile said what words can't.  

The band performed a medley of Irish tunes as members made their way around the track, following Robby.

When they arrived back where they had started, the teenager concluded his march and said, "Great job, Robby." Everyone erupted in applause. Great job indeed, Robby.

School board trustees Dan Cunningham and Sean Kenney attended the event.

"It was a very special day and one of the things that makes Dublin High School such a special place," Cunningham said. "The kids are truly accepting of all the students in the school and really were excited for Robby to lead the band." 

Kenney said the event was emotional and inspiring.

"This was one of those life lessons that you cannot get out of a book and I saw lives changed today," he said.

Robby later was given a trophy and his own mace, which had belonged to , Associated Student Body president and former drum major.

"This is a memory for my son that he'll never forget," Susan told members of the band. "You are all to be commended and this is what it's all about — giving back. So thank you for making a difference."

Robby and the band made one lap around Dublin High's track Saturday. The distance was a mere quarter of a mile. But this wasn't about the distance. It was the difference the march made in the lives of Robby and his fellow students.

Everts said he's already received an e-mail from a student saying how much the experience meant.

"He (Robby) is loving life and that's what I want the students to learn," said Everts. "It's really was a win-win."

Click on the video to watch Robby as a drum major.

To read a Letter to the Editor from Robby's teacher, click .