New principal named for Tobinworld’s school of autism

Fourteen years ago, when Ray Hairapatian was in his early 20s, he was working as a teaching assistant at Tobinworld school in Glendale helping developmentally disabled and autistic students when he knew he wanted to spend the rest of his career as an educator.

“It wasn’t until I started working in the population that I knew this is what I wanted to do the rest of my life,” Hairapatian said.

Now 38, he has been selected to be principal of Tobinworld’s Brill School of Autism, overseeing a program for 80 autistic students.

The majority of the students, ranging in age from 6 to 22, do not speak, while others are working to improve their speech skills.

“It’s an honor for me to work with them and help them and have a place in their life,” Hairapatian said.

Judy Weber, executive director of Tobinworld, said Hairapatian will drop whatever he’s doing to help when needed, no matter how busy he may be.

“His skills with making parents feel comfortable about their child are unmatched,” she said.

The Glendale-born resident attended R.D. White Elementary, Wilson Middle School and Glendale High. He then received an associate’s degree from Glendale Community College and later a teaching credential in special education from Cal State Northridge.

As principal, he said he is looking forward to assisting students and his co-workers, who work to help students meet their goals through individualized learning plans.

“As challenging as it is, it’s rewarding at the same time,” he said. “It drives me to do what I do: come to work and help them out, and go home with a big smile in my face.”