C— Julian Kantor, 22, left, sits with his best friend, Anthony Li, 21, outside A.P. Giannini Middle School in San Francisco, California, on Monday, June 1, 2026. Each Monday, Julian returns to the campus to visit a paraprofessional who played an important role during his years in school. Anthony, who interns at the school, often spends time talking with Julian before heading into work. For many students with cognitive disabilities, the transition into adulthood means leaving behind not only familiar routines, but also the teachers, aides and mentors who have become part of their daily lives. “I go and see Mr. Stevens, and sometimes I don’t like it,” Anthony said with a laugh. “Sometimes I tell him to go.” Despite the teasing, Anthony said he is looking forward to seeing what comes next for his longtime friend. “I feel excited for him to move on to another journey.”

