New special education school in Frederick offers individualized support

High Road School of Frederick County, a new school that’s part of the national organization Specialized Education Services Inc., is serving special education students in the county. The school is not part of Frederick County Public Schools, but the district can refer students to the school through their Individualized Education Programs (IEP). High Road serves students living with emotional disabilities, autism and other health impairments. Cullen King, the education director for High Road School of Frederick, said it focuses on academic progress while also providing behavioral support through social workers, behavior analysts and other staff members trained in verbal de-escalation. [...]

New special education school in Frederick offers individualized support2024-10-31T10:27:57-04:00

Forming strong bonds for student success at the High Road School of Fairfield County

Caleb, described by his mom, Shannan, as a bright and creative 9-year-old, is finding success at the High Road School of Fairfield County after facing significant challenges while enrolled in public school. Diagnosed with autism, Caleb struggled to stay focused and required more one-on-one attention than his elementary school could provide. “The district was wonderful and really tried to support him,” said Shannan. “But despite their best efforts, they acknowledged Caleb needed a more personalized environment with additional staff and smaller classrooms.” Since enrolling at High Road during the 2023-2024 school year, Caleb's experience has been transformative. Initially, he faced [...]

Forming strong bonds for student success at the High Road School of Fairfield County2024-11-07T10:38:54-05:00

Pretty in Pink: Buehrle Academy Unites for Breast Cancer Awareness

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the staff at Buehrle Academy showed their support by engaging in a variety of activities including joining the annual local walk, “Pink Lancaster”, organized by Advantage Lancaster. For many at Buehrle Academy, students and faculty alike, this cause is personal. It holds special significance for those who have lost loved ones or are supporting friends and family battling cancer. Every Wednesday throughout the month, the staff proudly donned pink t-shirts to raise awareness for breast cancer and show solidarity for those affected by this disease. The vibrant pink shirts serve as [...]

Pretty in Pink: Buehrle Academy Unites for Breast Cancer Awareness2024-10-31T10:21:57-04:00

Cooking up social skills at Sierra School of Angleton

Students in Brandy Scott’s social skills class at Sierra School at Angleton recently enjoyed a deliciously educational experience. Every Wednesday, they enhance their social skills by preparing “the most important meal of the day.” This week, they tackled pancakes, bacon, and eggs, even making enough to share with staff members. Each student worked individually and, in the process, practiced math concepts like measuring, proportions and calculating cooking times, while also exploring the scientific principles of heat chemistry and chemical reactions that transform ingredients. Beyond cooking, the activity fosters teamwork, communication, patience, and turn-taking. By managing their cooking times and sharing [...]

Cooking up social skills at Sierra School of Angleton2024-10-25T19:23:42-04:00

Legacy of Leadership: NewHope Academy Celebrates Dave and Brandy Larrance’s Decades of Service and Impact

On September 24, 2024, leadership at NewHope Academy hosted a heartfelt celebration to honor Brandy and Dave Larrance, former owners of the school with over a decade of dedicated service. As they officially ended their consulting agreement with SESI on October 1, the event served as a tribute to their many successes and lasting impact on the NHA community. In recognition of their contributions, NewHope Academy announced plans to launch a scholarship in their honor early next year, ensuring that their legacy continues supporting twice exceptional students for years to come.

Legacy of Leadership: NewHope Academy Celebrates Dave and Brandy Larrance’s Decades of Service and Impact2024-10-25T18:29:11-04:00

Lancaster Area Schools Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Buehrle Academy hosted a special event bringing students together to honor the rich history and culture of Hispanic and Latino communities. The day was filled with exciting activities including bingo and history trivia, led by social studies teacher Mr. Falcone. As part of the celebration and lesson of the day, students researched and presented on various countries, deepening their understanding and appreciation of Hispanic heritage. Students and teachers also enjoyed delicious meals highlighting authentic Latin dishes prepared by Gran Sabor Latino Restaurant in Lancaster City. The menu featured empanadas, rice and beans, papas rellenas and [...]

Lancaster Area Schools Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month2024-10-24T16:58:26-04:00

Sierra School of San Diego – Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournament

The energy was high at Sierra School of San Diego’s all-school rally this month, where the staff-only “Rock, Paper, Scissors” tournament brought lots of excitement and laughs. It was also a great way to boost morale and model teamwork for the students. Teachers were heard in the halls saying it was the “best Friday yet!” Big congrats to the winner, Ms. Andrea Preciado, elementary assistant teacher, who earned the grand prize of a free lunch!

Sierra School of San Diego – Rock, Paper, Scissors Tournament2024-10-24T16:26:19-04:00

The Importance of Executive Functioning Skills: How NewHope Academy Prepares Students for Life Beyond School

At NewHope Academy (NHA), we work with students who are bright, talented, and capable of achieving great things in college and beyond. However, many of our students face internal challenges that make success difficult, including struggles with executive functioning. We provide services for students in grades 6-12, along with a transition program for young adults, helping them overcome these obstacles and reach their full potential. Located in Arlington Heights, IL, we are proud to offer a nurturing environment that focuses on both academic growth and personal development—and we are currently enrolling new students. Mentor Classes: Building Daily Habits Our students [...]

The Importance of Executive Functioning Skills: How NewHope Academy Prepares Students for Life Beyond School2024-10-18T14:24:02-04:00

Mary DiCarlo: How Our Family Navigates Life With A Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Families with children on the Autism Spectrum face unique challenges and experiences. Each family’s journey is different, filled with both struggles and triumphs. We want to share their stories, insights, and advice to help and inspire other families going through similar experiences. As part of this interview series, we had the pleasure to interview Mary DiCarlo. Mary DiCarlo is a mom of two daughters, Sabrina, 27, a special education teacher, and Summer, 19. She has devoted to her life to being a stay-at-home mother to care for Summer who has autism and other medical issues. Mary lives in East Haven, [...]

Mary DiCarlo: How Our Family Navigates Life With A Child With Autism Spectrum Disorder2024-10-09T19:23:19-04:00