A Mother's Fight for Fairness, Dignity, and Equal Graduation Opportunities

In 2020, our son, Thelonious “Theo” Stoner, a profoundly autistic and nonspeaking student, earned his diploma .  His cap and gown were purchased, and his graduation was planned.

But Theo never had the opportunity to walk with his graduating class.

After years of advocacy, Theo finally received his graduation recognition in 2026. No family should have to fight for years for a moment their child has already earned.

What Is Theo’s Law?
Theo’s Law is proposed Georgia legislation designed to protect graduation recognition opportunities for students who have earned their diplomas but were unable to attend commencement because of circumstances beyond their control.

The updated proposal would:

Establish clear eligibility: Address documented medical restrictions or hospitalization, restrictions imposed by licensed care or treatment facilities, and officially imposed public-health emergencies or government measures.
Require a fair process: Provide individualized consideration following a written request with supporting documentation.
Protect graduation recognition: Provide one reasonable opportunity to participate in a future commencement ceremony or receive equivalent, dignified ceremonial recognition.
Establish accountability: Require clear procedures, designated school responsibilities, and written decisions.
Remain cost-neutral by design: Use existing school resources, graduation regalia, previously collected graduation dues, and minimal administrative coordination rather than requiring new ceremonies or additional state funding.
Why Does This Matter?
A diploma represents years of hard work. Graduation is the moment that achievement is publicly recognized.

For students with profound disabilities, that moment can carry extraordinary meaning for both the graduate and their family.

Theo’s Law does not change academic graduation requirements or guarantee participation in a particular ceremony. It establishes a fair process for recognizing students who have already earned their diplomas.

This is not about special treatment. It is about fairness, dignity, and equal opportunity.

Our family’s experience inspired Theo’s Law, but our hope is that it will help protect future generations of Georgia students.

Please sign and share our petition to support consideration of Theo’s Law by Georgia lawmakers.

Theo earned his diploma. Every graduate deserves recognition.

— The Stoner Family

Names and story shared with permission. Contact information available upon verified request from media, lawmakers, or education officials.