OptimALL Services Reshape Merrill Family’s School Experience

February 28, 2025

In the last few years, Tony and Bobby Merrill, parents of three energetic boys—Julian (14), Ferris (11), and Gus (9)—have seen their family’s educational path transformed by OptimALL Services. 

“Tony and I have three boys: Julian, Ferris, and Gus,” Bobby said. 

The couple chose Guardian Angels school for its close-knit atmosphere and strong Catholic roots. Located in the Mount Washington neighborhood of Cincinnati and founded in 1895, Guardian Angels is consistently rated as one of the best K-8 Catholic schools in the region. It’s also a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence recipient. 

 “We picked Guardian Angels for the tight community,” Bobby says. “Catholic education matters to us because we want faith woven into our kids’ daily lives. It helps them really grasp what being Catholic means and how to live it.”

However, their son Gus needed additional academic help, and the Merrill’s were concerned their youngest son wouldn’t be able to attend GA. That all changed when school leadership partnered with OptimALL.

“We first heard about OptimALL when they visited Guardian Angels,” Bobby said. “I went to an info session, and that’s how I got introduced to it.”

The program’s impact was immediate and deep. 

“OptimALL has helped our family in so many ways,” Bobby said. “Most importantly, Gus gets the support he needs while staying at the same school as his brothers. Guardian Angels is a huge part of our lives, and I’d hate for Gus to miss out on that.”

The support from OptimALL went beyond what Tony and Bobby had hoped. 

“It’s been way more than we expected,” Bobby said. “They’ve figured out what Gus needs before we even ask and set things up so he can succeed. His teachers have gone all out to keep him happy and on track with his classmates.”

Bobby admits she wasn’t sure what to expect at first.

“I didn’t know how it would go with OptimALL,” she said. “You hear stories of parents battling for their kids’ services, but that’s not what happened here. We’ve teamed up with Gus’ teachers and specialists to stay ahead of things. The communication’s always open, so we know exactly how he’s doing. It’s been smooth, and we’re thrilled.”

The Merrills hope their experience encourages others.

“I want people to see how OptimALL makes it possible for kids to stay at the school they love and still get the help they need,” Bobby said.

 For the Merrill family, OptimALL has ensured Gus can thrive alongside Julian and Ferris in a community they hold dear. Their story highlights a simple fact: with the right backing, every child can shine where they feel at home.

Interested in learning more about how OptimALL Services can change the outcome at your school? Visit our website!