Finding Purpose in Special Education

For Isaac Kim, teaching wasn’t part of his original plan. With a degree in philosophy, he didn’t set off seeking a career in education, but his experience with kids at his church’s vacation bible school and camps since age 13 made stepping into the classroom feel natural. “I was used to working with young people,” he said. “The population was different, but the principles were the same – building relationships, earning trust, and making sure they feel safe.” Now, five years after being hired at the High Road School of Hartford, Kim has found deep purpose in his work. Starting [...]

Finding Purpose in Special Education2025-03-26T18:08:03-04:00

Students at High Road School Celebrate Read Across America Week with Therapy Dogs

In a heartwarming celebration of Read Across America Week, students at High Road School in Hartford had the unique opportunity to read to a therapy dog. The K-8 school, which serves students with special needs, partnered with therapy dogs to help build children's confidence and reduce anxiety. Studies show that reading to therapy dogs has a positive impact on students, offering both a calming influence and excitement for learning. The students eagerly anticipated the day, even selecting special books for the dog to enjoy. Watch the videos to see the joy these therapy dogs brought to the classroom and how they [...]

Students at High Road School Celebrate Read Across America Week with Therapy Dogs2025-03-21T12:09:16-04:00

Celebrating a Decade of Impact

This fall marks Jennifer Johnson’s 10-year anniversary with High Road Schools of Connecticut and B.E.S.T. Academy. Johnson knew from an early age that she wanted to be a teacher. Inspired by the educators in her life–especially her sixth-grade homeroom and science teacher –who helped solidify Johnson’s decision to pursue a career in education. That passion led her to a career in special education, where she has dedicated herself to helping students overcome challenges and achieve success. Today as regional director, Johnson helps lead multiple schools, shaping the lives of both students and educators. We sat down with her to reflect on [...]

Celebrating a Decade of Impact2025-03-13T16:21:12-04:00

Caterpillar Celebration at Hartford Primary/Middle School

It’s a Caterpillar Celebration at Hartford Primary/Middle School! This spring at High Road School of Hartford Primary/Middle School, students got to participate in a two-week unit of learning about the lifecycle of caterpillars and butterflies. With the help of our related services team, students worked on: vocabulary, sequencing and describing attributes by observing their class caterpillars every-day and taking notes on their changes. Students especially loved naming their caterpillars; we had some very creative names ranging from Cali to Chicken! There was a lot of excitement when each caterpillar finally created their chrysalis and were [...]

Caterpillar Celebration at Hartford Primary/Middle School2024-05-15T10:34:19-04:00

Comfy for a Cause

Between our 90 standalone day schools and 90-plus In-District Classroom partnerships across 17 states, SESI serves nearly 8,000 special education students every year—many of whom have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Comfy for a Cause2024-01-19T09:53:00-05:00

Mr. Blanton: Strong Support

Mr. Blanton has been with the High Road team for 10 years. He is a team player and willing to help in any capacity, including sharing his experience with staff. He has fulfilled many roles such as 1:1, teaching assistant, and other necessary roles. He goes beyond supporting the students in their academics, taking time to build rapport with students in all classrooms. Mr. Blanton is a quiet yet supportive presence for the entire school - staff and students alike. "Mr. Blanton takes the time to build rapport with the students and is a constant positive support when assisting [...]

Mr. Blanton: Strong Support2020-11-30T21:32:36-05:00

Ni’zhi is September’s Superstar

Ni'zhi started at High Road in February 2020. This year, as a 9 year old 3rd grader, he has been a model student. Ni’zhi has been completing his work, helping peers, and displaying good sportsmanship during recess time. He is a hardworking young man, who respects his peers and staff. Let's keep up the good work Ni'zhi! "Ni'zhi has shown a tremendous amount of growth since starting at High Road in February 2020." - Mrs. McGlone, Operations Manager "Ni'zhi is always pleasant, greeting staff when they walk in the classroom, and very polite." - Mrs. Canty, Speech and Language [...]

Ni’zhi is September’s Superstar2020-11-25T15:56:23-05:00

Thank You Mr. Bancroft

Mr. Bancroft joined the Hartford Primary team after the school year was already in full swing but appears as a staff who has been here for a long time. Mr. Bancroft is assigned to one of the elementary classrooms and can often be found taking students on their breaks and working on engaging activities with his assigned student. Mr. Bancroft has a positive and calm energy when dealing with all of the students at Hartford Primary. He has been able to de-escalate many situations by utilizing his training and calming mannerisms. Mr. Bancroft has also been very open to learning [...]

Thank You Mr. Bancroft2022-01-18T00:28:24-05:00

February Student of the Month – Yanniel

What has this student done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Yanniel started at High Road School in November. Yanniel has made a great effort both academically and behaviorally. Despite having a brief set back, he bounced back with a positive attitude to get back on blue level. Yanniel has demonstrated excellent behavior in the classroom, setting an example for his peers. He attends all of his academic rotations, participates and is always willing to try whatever is presented to him. Yanniel is a hard working student and we can’t wait to see him continue [...]

February Student of the Month – Yanniel2020-03-26T16:57:02-04:00