Aaron Phelps graduated from Rodriguez High School in Fairfield, California, in person, having previously attended classes virtually using a telepresence robot. Phelps has Type 1 spinal muscular atrophy, a rare childhood disease described as devastating and causing motor neurons to die.

Phelps's mother, Meri Stratton, noticed his condition at a pediatrician's office in Davis when he was 2 months old. She was subsequently referred to a neurologist, who delivered a diagnosis described as heartbreaking news. Despite the condition, Phelps was determined to overcome expectations that his disability would hold him back.

A teacher at Rodriguez High School stated that the robot helps bring students closer to the class. The teacher expressed love for having Phelps in class every day, emphasizing the person behind the machine. Phelps is now celebrating his graduation after attending classes via robot due to his disease.