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 [...]
How NewHope Academy Supports Twice-Exceptional Students
Twice-Exceptional Students: Unlocking Potential Twice-exceptional (2e) students often find themselves at a unique intersection: they possess high intellectual potential, yet also face school or learning-related struggles. This duality can make their educational experience challenging, as these students may excel in certain areas while grappling with difficulties in others. At NewHope Academy, we recognize and celebrate the complexity of twice-exceptional learners, offering a safe, nurturing environment where their potential [...]
Jayden’s Journey at High Road School: a Path to Achievement
This fall, after attending the High Road School of Wallingford for five years, 11-year-old Jayden will start sixth grade in a public school setting. His journey is a testament to his resilience and determination, and the transformative power of specialized support, says the person who knows him best – his mother, Michelle. Jayden faced challenges that made traditional classroom settings difficult, such as trouble [...]
The Graham Academy Expands Its Northeast Pennsylvania Footprint With Opening of New Location in Mayfield
PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 03, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Specialized Education Services, Inc. (SESI), a division of FullBloom, a premier provider of education services for K-12 students who require additional educational and positive behavioral supports to overcome challenges that impede success in a traditional school setting, today announced the expansion of The Graham Academy to a new location, in Mayfield, Pennsylvania. Located at 1300 Old Plank Road, the new school is currently enrolling [...]
Helping Your Child Transition from Summer: Tips for Parents to Reduce Back-to-School Anxiety
Helping Your Child Transition from Summer: Tips for Parents to Reduce Back-to-School Anxiety As summer ends, many parents deal with their child's anxiety about returning to school. Transitioning from a relaxed summer schedule to a structured school environment can be challenging, especially for middle and high school students with emotional challenges. At NewHope Academy, we understand such transitional challenges. Here are some practical tips for parents to help [...]
Excel Academy students gain job experience and learn new skills
This summer, Excel Academy of Chicago students, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, participated in the city-wide One Summer Chicago program. Over the course of six weeks, more than 110 students across Roseland, South Shore, Southwest, and Englewood Excel Academy schools explored new areas of the city, engaging in activities and opportunities that many had never been exposed to before. The One [...]
Spirit Week – Summer 2024
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Valedictorian Tyra Dixon’s Story of Perseverance
Tyra Dixon’s time at Excel Academy of South Shore, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, has been marked by strong academics, student leadership and extracurricular achievements - shaping her into a well-rounded young woman. Her hard work and dedication resulted in being named the class of 2024 valedictorian. A member of student government, Tyra was elected Executive Bronco, a position that [...]
SAFE Achieve Academy students build confidence through hair education
Eight students from SAFE Achieve Academy of Chicago, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Option Network, recently visited Yvenetta "Midge" Welch, the dedicated owner of Issues Barber & Beauty Salon, for a tour and Q&A session at her salon. The students, part of a cosmetology class at the school, had the opportunity to meet stylists and chat with them about their profession, as well as practice some of what [...]
Exciting End-of-Year Events at High Road School of Wright City
As the school year winds down, students at the High Road School of Wright City have been treated to presentations on several important topics. Destiny (Mantia) Klimaszewski shared her powerful story about the dangers of drinking and driving, following her tragic experience as a childless widow at 21. Also helping highlight the dangers of driving under the influence were Christopher Pate, an underage drinking prevention specialist with Mothers Against [...]
Arien’s High Road Journey
Table of Contents Academic gains Ready for success beyond the High Road School Finding the right educational setting for a child with special needs can be an exhaustive search. Ashley Negron, the mother of Arien, knows this all too well. From the time Arien was just 3 years old, Ashley found herself struggling to get him the support he needed at [...]
Summer’s Success at BEST Academy
Table of Contents Finding the Right Fit Unwavering Support and Preparation for the Future When Mary enrolled her daughter, Summer, at BEST Academy in 2017, she hoped for a supportive environment where Summer could thrive. Today, nearly seven years later, Mary reflects on how BEST Academy has exceeded her expectations, providing her daughter with the tools to grow academically [...]
School of the Week: Excel Academy Central prepares students for high achievement
After the student population at Excel Academy South reached 400 students last year, a plan was developed to downsize the school. The result was opening another school in a different location with the same programming. Excel Academy Central opened its doors this school year at Grover Washington Middle School at 201 E. Olney Ave. Just like Excel Academy South, Central is an accelerated school program that provides students who [...]
High Road School students learn about crime scene investigation
Students at the High Road School of Wright City met with Amy Lesch of the Lincoln County Sheriff's Office to learn about careers in forensics and how crime scene investigations are conducted.
Specialized Education Services, Inc. Grows Educational Offerings in Arizona with Acquisition of Two Lexington Life Academy Locations
SESI broadens mission of supporting more students through specialized education and therapeutic services PPHILADELPHIA, June 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Specialized Education Services, Inc. (SESI), a division of FullBloom, a premier provider of education services for K-12 students who require additional educational and positive behavioral supports to overcome challenges that impede success in a traditional school setting, today announced the acquisition of two Lexington Life Academy locations in Arizona. [...]
Excel Academies Prom 2024
On Friday, May 10, at the Radisson Hotel Philadelphia Northeast, over 140 students from Excel Academies in Philadelphia graced the red carpet at the 2024 prom. It was a great night filled with formal attire and fun for all! Keep Reading
Excel Academy of Southwest students checkmate the opposition to win chess tournament
Excel Academy Students from across Chicago recently gathered at the Excel Academy of Southwest for a day of competition. The school hosted the third annual Excel Academy chess tournament, where teams competed three-on-three-style.Jake Benke, director of the Southwest campus, extoled the virtues of chess as important activity that fosters critical thinking skills amongst his students.After four heated rounds, Excel Academy of Southwest took home the trophy with [...]
Specialized Education Services, Inc. Unveils 2024 Staff and Teacher of the Year Winners
Third annual awards program recognizes team members’ commitment to special and alternative education students PHILADELPHIA, May 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Specialized Education Services, Inc. (SESI), a division of FullBloom, a premier provider of education services for K-12 students who require additional educational and positive behavioral supports to overcome challenges that impede success in a traditional school setting, today broadly announced Shannon Searles as its 2024 Teacher of the Year [...]
Showing understanding through art at the Sierra School of Sonoma
Elementary school students in Room F (aka The Wild Things) at the Sierra School of Sonoma recently exhibited their creative skills with a project on South African symbolism and abstract art. As part of their academic work Sierra students, ages 6 to 10 years old, studied several cultures in their social studies class, including South Africa. They created a variety of art and replicated [...]
Lexington Life Academy’s Prom 2024
Lexington Life Academy hosted their Prom 2024! Check out the pictures below to see our students enjoying the dance floor! Learn more about our school today.
Empowering the next generation through the art of storytelling
After weeks of meticulous post-production and an outpouring of support, 2023 SESI Teacher of the Year Kristi Hoffman and students from the Academic Six high school classroom at the High Road School of Wright City proudly present their Women's History Month podcast. The special project podcast features interviews with some of the remarkable women who help lead SESI.The spark for this project ignited when Executive [...]
Excel Academy leaders and students participate in United Black Male Educators of Chicago Public Schools inaugural conference
Several members of the Excel Academy community recently participated in an important event hosted by the United Black Male Educators (UMBE) of Chicago Public Schools. Students along with Dr. Anthony Haley Jr., regional director, Chicago, and Tyree Booker, school director, Excel Academy Roseland, who are members of the UBME, attended the organization’s inaugural student empowerment conference. The landmark event, held at Olive Harvey Community [...]
Sierra School of Solano’s May Spotlights
Staff Spotlight Ms. Lili is our staff of the month for May! She always goes above and beyond for the students and staff in room one and two, but also for the whole school general. She is willing to help in any situation with a smile and has a calm presence about her. The staff and students know they can always count on her! Student Spotlight [...]
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 [...]
Celebrating creative expression at Excel Academy of Englewood
At Excel Academy of Englewood, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, a recent event celebrated spoken words, music and the visual arts. The "Express Yourself" showcase provided a platform for both students and staff to share their talents. "Express Yourself" stemmed from English and art department lessons, where students including delved into the areas of poetry and painting. What [...]
Pacific Beach teen wins award in financial literacy contest
Congratulations to Gabriel Trepashko, our very own 17-year-old student at the Sierra School of San Diego! Gabriel recently received Honorable Mention during the third annual Financial Literacy Superheroes Competition for his entry, "Luna The Super Saver Cat," who was created to encourage good financial habits. We could not be more proud of him! Read the Whole Story! Learn more about our school today.
Student Spotlight: Ely’s transformative journey
Creating a positive environment for students with autism is essential for their academic and social development. Learn more about the effective strategies that encourages positive social interactions between students and educators.
Quenice Davis: From college basketball star to Sacramento school admin
Quenice Davis is a former San Diego State standout basketball player. Now, she's impacting lives as an administrator at Sierra School of Sacramento SACRAMENTO, Calif. — When it comes to shooting your shot, Quenice Davis gets buckets. The former division 1 college basketball star turned school administrator is scoring at life and dishing out plenty of assists along the way. "I've always known I wanted to go into education," [...]
Graham Academy Students Honored in Wilkes-Barre
WILKES-BARRE, LUZERNE CO. (WOLF) — April is World Autism Awareness Month. To celebrate the City of Wilkes-Barre honored five students from the Graham Academy. Students and their loved ones visited City Hall Friday morning to officially be declared Fire Chief, Police Chief, Councilperson, and Mayor for the day. The students hosted meetings and helped make some important decisions for the City. The Graham Academy promotes awareness, equity, and access for [...]
Environmental groups, schools mobilize for Earth Day across Far South Side
After her brother died of asthma in 2009, Jermica Davis said she felt pulled to environmental justice work. This year, she spent her Earth Day picking up trash around Altgeld Gardens, the public housing community where she and her brother grew up. “When he passed away, that sparked something in me,” she said. “Working in the community, and actually seeing how the environment can affect the community, that is [...]
Life skills olympics help teach real world, practical crafts
Feeding off the positive energy, flashing of cameras and fast-paced competition, Mia Rooks helped her team bring home a trophy in the third annual life skills olympics. At the same time, the competition will help the 17-years-old with her transition plan of attending a four-year university to pursue a degree in social work. “It was an exciting energy, this is my second year going but my first year participating [...]
High Road athletes train for Special Olympics
High Road School students practiced their running and throwing in preparation for this weekend's Special Olympics track meet at Prospect High School. Under the direction of the school's Special Olympics Head Coach and Physical Education teacher Pat Hurst, the athletes ran a series of sprints, then practiced throwing a softball in a shot-put style motion at Maple Trail Park near the school. One athlete, Peter Fleming, who would have [...]
Taking High Road — To Special Olympics
Local students with special needs prepared last Friday for the upcoming Region B Spring Games held by Special Olympics Illinois. The Spring Games will take place later in April at Prospect High School. Students at High Road School of Mount Prospect, 580 Slawin Court, have been working tirelessly, showing remarkable dedication and enthusiasm for the Special Olympics. Students train under the guidance of PE teacher and coach Patrick Hurst, [...]
Wilkes-Barre event with live bands aims to boost autism awareness
KINGSTON — Light It Up Blue, an annual autism-awareness event, has grown into a fun community celebration this year, featuring live bands, food trucks and vendors on Public Square in Wilkes-Barre. Carol McGrane, director of Graham Academy, said in an interview at the lower school on Friday that the academy partnered with King’s College, Wilkes University and Misericordia University to make this year’s event more community-oriented and bigger and [...]
5 Tips for Fostering a Positive Learning Environment for Students with Autism
Creating a positive environment for students with autism is essential for their academic and social development. Learn more about the effective strategies that encourages positive social interactions between students and educators.
These High Road School of Bucyrus teachers celebrate their 1-year anniversary!
Help us celebrate Ms. Tammy, Ms. Ceyanna, and Ms. Alex for 1 year of service with High Road School of Bucyrus! On behalf of High Road School of Bucyrus, we want to thank you for your dedication to our school, our students, and this team! We are fortunate to have you as part of our team, and we look forward to many more years of working [...]
Honoring Black History Month at High Road School of Wright City
During Black History Month, High Road staff and students engaged in a variety of learning activities focused on acknowledging and appreciating the contributions of African Americans to our society, history, and culture. In learning about these individuals and their legacies, we recognized the struggles and sacrifices faced by African Americans throughout history, while also celebrating their resilience, achievements, and cultural heritage. Here are some [...]
High Road School of York gives back to the community!
Students delivered food items to Southern York Food Pantry. High Road School of York students participated in a food drive as part of the school wide KINDNESS WEEK! Learn more about our school today.
Empowering Students to Tackle Test Anxiety
Test anxiety is normal, but it doesn't have to hold you back. Learn proven strategies for managing stress, boosting focus, and achieving your academic goals.
Final Quarter feature: Quenice Davis teaches life lessons, and basketball
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (KTXL) – Quenice Davis is never too far from a basketball court. She even gets to play at work, at Sierra School of Sacramento, where she is the associate director. “It’s a lot, it’s exhausting,” says Davis. “But I feel like it’s my purpose. It’s my calling.” Quenice Davis has worked at the school for six years. She has a bachelor’s degree from San Diego State and [...]
High Road School of Fairfield County Read Across America
High Road School of Fairfield County celebrated Read Across America this month by hosting Judge Yamini Menon to read to our K-6 students. Thank you for joining us! Learn more about our school today.
Roseland’s Rising Star: Chicago Excel Academy graduate embarks on her college journey
Chloe W, an extraordinary student from Washington Heights and Beverly, recently graduated from Excel Academy of Roseland. Now, at only 16-years-old, she is enrolled at Columbia College Chicago (CCC). This achievement is not only a testament to her academic prowess but reflects her family's deep-rooted belief in the power of education. For Chloe, attending CCC is more than just a personal [...]
Celebrating student success at the Special Olympics
Peter F., a fourth-grader at the High Road School of Mount Prospect, a school providing academic and therapeutic services for children, adolescents, and young adults with extraordinary needs, is an athlete and shining example of the importance of determination. The 9.5-year-old recently placed second in the 100-meter and third in the 50-meter snowshoe races at the 2024 Special Olympics [...]
The Child Advocacy Center Honors Ms. Zoellner
The Child Advocacy Center (CAC), an organization whose mission is to deliver excellence in child abuse response, offer a path toward healing, and educate the community, recently chose to honor High Road's social worker, Kathryn Zoellner, for her outstanding partnership over the years. Over the past five years, Kathryn has invested herself in providing not only resources for families but also tools for our students to protect themselves [...]
Sierra School of Solano’s March Spotlights
Staff Spotlight Ms. Sam, is the Staff of the Month for March!Everyday Ms. Sam does a great job at supporting the staff and students in her classroom, as well as any other rooms or students that need anything throughout the day. She does all things from van runs to getting school lunch and does it all with a smile. Student Spotlight Able was picked for Student of the Month [...]
High Road School of Fairfield County’s Black History Month Door Competition
Our staff and students "opened the door" to important conversations during the month of February. Learn more about our school today.
Sierra School of Solano’s February Spotlights
Staff Spotlight Ms. T is Staff of the Month for February! Recently, Ms. T became our teacher in Room 2 with elementary students. Since beginning her new role, she has done fantastic. She is very supportive of her students and shows patience and grace with each one of them. Student Spotlight Ulisses was picked for Student of the Month for February! He comes to school [...]
High Road School of Wright City Staff Spotlight: Meet Mr. Casey
Casey, Teacher, High Road School of Wright City High Road School of Wright City would like to acknowledge Casey Hutchison for his notable contributions to our school. Casey came to High Road ready to learn and do. He humbly welcomed any experience available to him, quickly establishing himself as a flexible and enthusiastic member of our school community. Casey's quest to learn and his openness to feedback have [...]
Excel and Safe Achieve Academies of Chicago Host Black History Quiz Bowl
In a spirited celebration of Black History Month, students from each Excel Academy (Englewood, Roseland, Southwest, and South Shore) and the Safe Achieve Academy competed in the annual Black History Quiz Bowl last month. The Academies are part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network. During the exciting “Jeopardy”-style showdown, team members showcased their knowledge of influential Black Americans and their significant contributions [...]
Celebrating Success: Excel Roseland’s First Semester Awards + Luncheon
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).
Welcome to Sierra School at San Bernardino City!
Welcome to Sierra School at San Bernardino City! Enjoy a quick photo tour of our school! Learn more about our school today.
Sierra School of San Diego’s Dalvin smiling his way to Student Spotlight
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Sierra School of San Diego’s NFAR Grant Winner!
The Occupational Therapy department at the Sierra School of San Diego has attained the National Foundation for Autism Research (NFAR) grant, aimed at supporting educators and therapists working with individuals with Autism. This grant will fund an upgrade for the therapy mats in the Motor Lab, ensuring safety of students during direct OT treatment sessions and student’s sensory regulation breaks. During these sessions students utilize [...]
When a haircut provides much more than a new “do” to a child with sensory needs: Tristan’s story
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).
Ukraine Tour at Lattice Educational Services
Today Lattice Educational Services hosted 2 educational members from Ukraine in partnership with Sebastopol World Friends. Svitlana Skliar is the Director of the Inclusive Resource Center (special educational needs) of the Cherkasy City Council and Hanna Yefimtseva is the Chief Specialist EdCamp Ukraine, a worldwide teacher training resource. They are part of Open World, a Congressionally sponsored program that brings people from former Soviet and developing nations to the [...]
Sierra School at Liberty hosts Liberty ESD SPED staff for a Professional Development training with Dr. Diane Myers, Senior Vice President-Behavior, Specialized Education Services, Inc.
Sierra School at Liberty was pleased to hosts Liberty ESD SPED staff for a Professional Development training with SESI Senior Vice President-Behavior, Dr. Diane Myers. Learn more about our school today.
Sierra School of Gilbert hosts Spring ’24 Lunch & Learn
Sierra School of Gilbert was pleased to hosts our valued district stakeholders for a Lunch and Learn event with Dr. Ellen Gaske. Learn more about our school today.
Sierra School of Peoria hosts a Lunch & Learn with Dr. Ellen Gaske
Sierra School of Peoria was pleased to host our valued district stakeholders for an afternoon of learning and networking with Dr. Ellen Gaske, Senior Vice President-Academics for Specialized Education Services, Inc. Learn more about our school today.
High Road School of Mt. Healthy Staff of the Month: Ms. Boseman!
High Road School of Mt. Healthy's staff of the Month for November/December was Ms. Boseman. Ms. Boseman goes above and beyond to ensure that all students have a supportive learning atmosphere. We are always excited when Ms. Boseman arranges special meals for students and staff, such as her Labor Day grill out and coordinating our Thanksgiving Feast. We are proud to have Ms. Boseman as part of our team! [...]
Say “Hi” to Sierra School of San Diego’s Student Spotlight: Trenton!
Learn more about our school today.
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).
Sacramento River Cat’s Mascot, Dinger, Visits Sierra School of Sacramento
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).
Tech Adventure at Google for Excel Academy of Englewood Students
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).
Ms. Marcelin is the most SAFE Staff of the Month!
Ms. Marcelin won our most SAFE staff of the month for December. Ms. Marcelin always puts others first and is genuinely supportive of everyone in the building. When you need someone to listen, you know she actually cares and it's not just a job to her. Thank you Ms. Marcelin for all you have done for our staff and students. Learn more about our school today.
Ya’Hira’s the most SAFE Student of the Month!
Ya'Hira won the most SAFE student of the Month. She provides a safe place for others to be themselves and is always kind and supportive of others. She’s a positive big sister role and overall has shown character development these last few months. Learn more about our school today.
Spotlighting our “Gold” student, Jay’ron!
With a unanimous vote, Jay'ron has been nominated as most Accountable student of the month of October. He has maintained "Gold" status this school year, which occurs when you maintain over 90% of your daily behavior points. Students with this privilege can go into the hallway independently and help staff with tasks. Staff reported that Jay'ron is very respectful and is demonstrating that he can be responsible. He has [...]
Happy Holidays from the staff at Sierra School of Weld County!
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Happy Holidays from the staff at Sierra School of Alhambra!
Learn more about our school today.
Happy Holidays from the team at Sierra School of San Diego
The team at Sierra School of San Diego wishes everyone a happy holiday season and healthy 2024! Learn more about our school today.
Sierra School at Sonoma Transition Lab
Transition Coordinator Ms. Spice runs an incredible facility where students can learn valuable pre employment skills and create awesome merchandise using screen printing, laser engraving, heat press and other equipment. Learn more about our school today.
Multi-talented artist returns to alternative school in Elkton that changed his life
ELKTON, Md. — The guest of honor at an alternative school in Elkton is greeted by the staff like a long lost friend. “My name is Rakeem Miles. I work through the music and the fashion, also TV as well. We have a TV show coming out next year.” The credits, appearances and endorsements just keep coming for Rakeem Miles—-a multi-talented artist who established his own brand after graduating [...]
High Road School of Fairfield County’s Holiday Fair
High Road School of Fairfield County held our first holiday fair on 12/20/23. Students were excited to shop for loved ones and have their gifts wrapped and labeled. Learn more about our school today.
High Road School students deliver holiday cheer to residents at local assisted living facility
PACE, Fla. (WKRG) — Students from the High Road School in Santa Rosa County took to the Victorian Manor assisted living facility in Pace to spread a little holiday cheer. “It was very nice. A big surprise because we were not expecting it,” Susan Steward, a Victorian Manor, resident said. The staff and special education students gave gifts and hand-made holiday cards to residents, collected at a school holiday [...]
Sierra School of Sonoma County Students Star in Play About Behavior and Choices
Elementary students at the Sierra School of Sonoma County recently took center stage in a play examining choices and behavior. The production, “Future Star: The Perils of Bad Choices and the Rewards of Positive Choices”, was student-driven. Originally the idea of a student with a passion for writing who personally saw the impact o