From High School to Nursing School: Hassaanah Chandler’s Inspiring Journey
Hassaanah Chandler’s Path to Nursing At just 17 years old, Hassaanah Chandler is already making incredible strides toward her future. A recent graduate from Excel Academy Central, she earned an impressive scholarship to attend the University of Mount Saint Vincent in New York City, where she will pursue a degree in nursing. Her journey is one of determination and a passion to help others. Having attended [...]
Students enjoy a Fun Friday bowling event at Fat Cats
Gideon and his classmates who achieved step 4 last week earned a trip to Fat Cats for some bowling and and fun outside of school. Gideon and his classmates who earned step 4 last week earned a trip to Fat Cats for some bowling
Ms. Jenn is our Staff of the Month
Please help us celebrate our Staff of the Month for February 2025 Ms. Jenn Gonzales! Ms. Jenn is such a valued member of the Sierra Gilbert team. She cares deeply for all of our students and always looks to help.
January Student of the Month
January Student of the Month: Charlie January Student of the Month: Olivia
Arts and crafts club sparks student expression at NewHope Academy
At NewHope Academy, a school dedicated to supporting twice exceptional students, creativity flourishes thanks to the efforts of teachers Sara Wodarski and Cassidy Aragon. The duo established a vibrant arts and crafts class and club that not only nurtures artistic skills but also fosters collaboration and community spirit among students. The extracurricular advanced crafting class offers students a unique opportunity [...]
Staff Spotlight: Alvin Sims Goes From the Court to the Classroom
A Team Player On and Off the Court From basketball arenas around the globe to the quieter halls of the High Road School of the Quad Cities, Alvin Sims has always been a team player. A former professional basketball star, Sims now channels his passion and discipline into helping students thrive as a behavioral specialist. Raised in Kentucky, Sims’ journey to working with students has been [...]
Horticulture Class Plants Excitement at NewHope Academy
How NewHope Academy’s Horticulture Class Cultivates Growth At NewHope Academy, a school dedicated to supporting bright students with an array of exceptional needs, the horticulture elective has blossomed into one of the most enriching and hands-on experiences available. The course is much more than just becoming proficient in gardening – it offers a therapeutic, educational journey that helps students grow academically, socially, [...]
Student Government Heads to the Capital!
Mr. K took the student government participants to check out the state capital in January! They loved the opportunity to learn more about our government!
Creating a Collaborative Support System: How NewHope Academy Works with Parents to Support Students
At NewHope Academy, we recognize that a student’s success is deeply rooted in the support they receive both at school and at home. That's why we place a strong emphasis on building a collaborative partnership with parents to ensure a comprehensive support system. By working together, we can address both academic and emotional needs, creating an environment where students thrive in all aspects of life. 1. Caregiver Family Therapy [...]
Sierra School of Solano County Art Show
Sierra School Art Show- Students from each classroom and grade level display their own art.
Sierra School of Gilbert Garden Club
It’s January, the time of year when we begin to harvest the vegetables planted in the fall in the school garden at Sierra School of Gilbert. The school garden is celebrating its 8th year of dynamic and hands-on learning for students in the Spark and Bloom classrooms where youth of all abilities contribute to our school community. The fall growing season [...]
Winter Snowball Party at Sierra Gilbert
Students at Sierra School of Gilbert celebrated a recent CASE event with a snowball party thanks to our kind neighbors at Bahama Bucks. Students ended the party with snow cones.
Ms. Chermiese is our Staff of the Month
Ms. Chermiese has a contagious smile and a heart of gold. She selflessly serves Sierra Gilbert students each day. We are so grateful for all of her hard work and dedication to our students!
Student Spotlight: Marcos Mercedes Carmona of Phoenix Academy
At just 18, Marcos Mercedes Carmona has already shown remarkable determination to succeed. A recent graduate of Phoenix Academy, Carmona spent only eight months at the school, but its impact on him and his future will last a lifetime. Carmona transferred from his home high school to Phoenix Academy because he wanted a more structured learning environment for himself. "The stricter environment was beneficial for me [...]
Operation Snowball Brings Holiday Joy to Excel Academies
The holiday season is a time for joy, community, and giving back. In December, the Excel Academies in Philadelphia, took part in Operation Snowball, a city-wide initiative, led by the Philadelphia Eagles in collaboration with the School District of Philadelphia, that aims to spread holiday cheer by providing every student in the district with a thoughtful holiday gift. Gifts That Warmed Hearts Operation Snowball visited all [...]
Dr. Brian Katz Featured in Executive Function for Educational Innovation
It is with great pride that we share an exciting accomplishment from our very own Dr. Brian Katz, School Director at NewHope Academy. Dr. Katz’s expertise and dedication to supporting twice-exceptional students have been recognized nationally with the publication of his article, "Fostering Executive Function," in the January 2025 edition of Executive Function Magazine. This piece highlights the innovative strategies NewHope Academy, part of Specialized Education Services, [...]
High Road School of Belvidere Educator Named Teacher of the Week
High Road School's Saundra Hill was recently celebrated as local radio station 97ZOK’s Teacher of the Week. Administrative Assistant Rachel Lenick nominated Hill for going above and beyond for her students both in and out of school. Staff from the radio station visited the school to surprise Hill with a cake and gift card to a local day spa to celebrate her recognition. Learn how her [...]
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Celebrating Diversity
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. remains one of the most iconic figures in American history, known for his relentless dedication to justice, equality, and the celebration of diversity. His dream, famously articulated in his 1963 "I Have a Dream" speech, envisioned a world where individuals are judged not by the color of their skin but by the content of their character. As we reflect on his legacy, [...]
Introducing the Motor Lab at Lexington Life Academy: A place for students to regulate, one station at a time
The Role of a Motor Lab at Lexington A motor lab is a tool that has been implemented at the Lexington. Fine and gross motor skills are mastered through structured, purposeful activities. Sensory processing is crucial for children with ASD as it directly impacts their ability to interact with & make sense of the world around them. Sensory processing refers to how the brain receives, organizes, & [...]
Holiday Cheer at Sierra Gilbert
Some visitors from the North Pole came to wish all Sierra Gilbert students and staff a very merry holiday season
How NewHope Academy’s DVS Program Builds Executive Functioning and Independence
Preparing Students for Life: When a student struggles in school and at home, the ripple effects are felt throughout the entire family. Parents often describe feeling stuck, unsure how to help their child succeed, and searching for a place where their student can feel supported, nurtured, and hopeful. At NewHope Academy, we understand how overwhelming this time can be. Our mission is to provide students with [...]
Sierra Gilbert Staff give back
To start the new year by giving back to the community, the staff from Sierra Gilbert spent the afternoon participating in a service project at Feed My Starving Children. Through this teambuilding event the staff helped to pack and prep over 1,500 meals to children in need around the world. We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated staff for their incredible participation [...]
Exponential Growth: An Interview with Pierson L., Class of 2023-24
Interview with Pierson L., Class of 2023-24: Pierson L., a recent graduate of NewHope Academy, reflects on his transformative journey at NHA, where he overcame personal challenges, built self-confidence, and discovered a passion for astronomy. Pierson’s story is one of resilience, curiosity, and ambition. Here’s a look at how NewHope played a pivotal role in shaping his future and fueling his aspirations. Q: How did [...]
Community-building activities at High Road School of Windham County
Building Connections, One Marshmallow at a Time! At High Road School of Windham, community-building time is more than just an activity, it's a cornerstone of fostering positive social skills and teamwork among our students. Each day, our students come together to engage in hands-on, collaborative challenges that spark creativity, encourage communication, and build lasting connections. Recently, our students tackled an exciting activity: constructing structures using marshmallows and toothpicks. From [...]
The Teaching Assistant (TA) Program: Empowering Student Leaders
Introducing the TA Program Our High School teachers, alongside Associate Director Stephanie Dandos, have launched an exciting new initiative to incentivize our students: the Teaching Assistant (TA) Program. This program offers students the opportunity to take on leadership roles by supporting younger peers, assisting in classrooms, and helping others. To qualify, students must demonstrate qualities such as responsibility, accountability, safety, and engagement in their own classrooms. [...]
Getting Creative with Motivation
Innovative Strategies in the Classroom Teachers are becoming more creative in finding ways to motivate students and keep them engaged in their learning. Often, students benefit from having more choices or alternative methods to reach their goals. In Ms. Lucero's class, for example, she turned a simple student request for chips into a valuable learning [...]
College and Career Fair at the Achieve Academy of Harrisburg
The Achieve Academy of Harrisburg recently hosted its annual College and Career Fair, organized by School Counselor Kristina Ward and Team Lead Tony Ballon. The event brought together local businesses and educational institutions to provide students with insights into a variety of post-secondary paths. Fair Exhibitors and Participants Fair exhibitors included: [...]
Student Activities at High Road School of Windham County
Students at High Road School of Windham County have been busy enjoying a variety of fun and engaging activities! From picking fresh apples during a trip to the local orchard to an exciting round of laser tag, students had plenty of opportunities for adventure and connection. They also visited the Roger Williams Zoo, where smiles were endless as they explored and learned about wildlife. Back at school, students got [...]
Student Spotlight: Laffeyette T.
For Laffeyette T., the road to earning his high school diploma was far from traditional. But his journey – filled with resilience, determination, and a newfound passion for helping others – is one worth celebrating. He graduated from Excel Academy North in February 2024 and today is a role model for youth in Philadelphia, showing what’s possible when you embrace change and persevere through [...]
December 2024 Student Spotlight!
December Student of the Month: Max December Student of the Month: Preston
Sierra Gilbert Students Enjoy a Fun Holiday Shopping Trip
The holiday season is in full swing at Sierra School of Gilbert! Recently, students took a community outing to a local grocery store to gather supplies and gifts for their annual holiday party. The trip was a fantastic opportunity for the students to engage in real-world learning while celebrating the joy of the season. Manny, one of the students, had a big smile on his [...]
Excel Academies of Philadelphia Give Thanks
Students Give Thanks Thanksgiving and the holiday season offer a time to reflect, give back, and foster joy values embraced at Excel Academies in Philadelphia during recent celebrations and initiatives. From baking fun to meaningful community service, the schools offered opportunities for highlighting gratitude, generosity, and togetherness. Excel Academy South began the festivities with a pie-baking competition, showcasing staff’s culinary talents. Ten entries vied for the top spot, with [...]
Excel Academies Students Exercise Their Right to Vote
The Excel Academies of Chicago, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, held a voter registration drive earlier this fall, that resulted in in 15 new registered voters. These students proudly cast their first time ballots in the 2024 presidential election, as well as many local races. “At Excel, we believe in empowering our students to make their voices heard,” said Ashanti Brooks, school clerk, [...]
Excel Academy of Southwest Celebrates Honor Roll Students
Excel Academies of Southwest, part of the Chicago Public Schools’ Options Network, recently recognized 36 exceptional students for making Honor Roll during the first quarter. Their dedication, hard work, and commitment to excellence serve as a remarkable example for their peers. “These students have not only excelled academically, but have also demonstrated perseverance, discipline and a strong work ethic,” said Principal Moise Ortiz. “Their outstanding accomplishments reflect their drive [...]
From 10 Schools to the Right Fit for Ryan
For Ryan and his parents, finding the right school was a long and challenging journey. Adopted from Russia nearly 13 years ago, Ryan struggled with behavioral and emotional challenges. Over time, he attended 10 different schools, but none could provide the structure and support he needed. A Shift at High Road School When Ryan enrolled at the High Road School of Massachusetts, things began to change. [...]
A mother and son’s journey as a part of the Lexington Life family
Damien, a 12-year-old middle schooler, joined Lexington Life Academy - South Mountain after facing significant challenges in the public school system. For his mother, Tairy, finding a safe and supportive educational environment for Damien was crucial. Tairy’s Personal and Professional Growth Since enrolling at the school four years ago, Damien has flourished both academically and socially. His progress is deeply personal for Tairy, who now works as a teaching assistant [...]
B.E.S.T. Academy Student of the Month November 2024 Marco G
B.E.S.T. Academy Student of the Month November 2024 Marco G Marco G was nominated for BEST Academy’s Student of the Month for the month of November. Across this month, Marco has consistently exhibited Considerate, Accountable, Safe, and Engaged behaviors while in school. For example, he attended and participated in all scheduled related service sessions and classroom group activities. He completed tasks presented to him in a safe and [...]
B.E.S.T. Academy Fall Festival
BEST Academy staff and students participated in our Fall Festival this October. Ms. Dirzius and Ms. Williams greeted everyone as Mario and Luigi. Students picked pumpkins from our patch and were able to decorate pumpkins. Classrooms did fall themed read aloud and did some crafting that allowing students an opportunity to work on social skills within the classroom. FIND OUT [...]
Fall Fun with Speech and Occupational Therapy
This fall in Speech and Occupational Therapy, we embraced all things fall with festive, hands-on activities! Students participated in edible crafts, games, reading comprehension exercises, multi-step direction tasks, and engaging fine and visual motor activities. One of the highlights was creating Pumpkin Patch Pudding Cups in small groups. Small group activities encourage social interaction and peer engagement while reinforcing both speech-language and occupational therapy goals. For [...]
Making Private Education Possible
For Passion Hernandez, a lead assistant teacher at Lexington Life Academy-South Mountain, the school isn’t just a workplace – it’s a lifeline for her and her 9-year-old daughter, Serenity. Serenity, who is nonverbal and an eloper (a common behavior for children with autism is to run or wander away from caregivers or secure locations; this is called elopement), experienced an upsetting incident at her previous school. Passion knew [...]
This season, finding my gratitude in art and teaching
Educators guide and support students, but also learn from their curiosity, problem-solving skills, and unique ways of thinking Key points: Teaching isn’t a one-way street–students have their own lessons to share Here’s how schools can better support neurodiverse students Why special educators are key to behavioral equity and inclusion As an art teacher at a school for twice-exceptional students, gratitude is drawn into many moments each day. Reflecting on [...]
Honoring Family and Tradition: Día de los Muertos Ofrenda
At the Sierra School of Alhambra, Día de los Muertos (translates to “Day of the Dead”) has become a cherished annual tradition. This year’s celebration was marked by a colorful ofrenda, or altar, displayed prominently in the front office. Students and staff came together to honor loved ones who have passed, embracing the holiday’s rich cultural significance. What began as a small observance years ago, has grown into [...]
Sierra San Diego Welcomes Pro Soccer Player Kennedy Wesley
San Diego Wave FC, an American professional women's soccer team, defender Kennedy Wesley recently inspired students at Sierra San Diego during a visit filled with insights into the life of a pro athlete. Wesley shared her journey to professional soccer, her educational background, and her passion for working with the special education community. Students prepared thoughtful questions, eager to learn about her path to professional sports, her school experience, [...]
Students celebrate hitting their I Ready milestones
Mason celebrates reaching his I-Ready milestones by throwing a pie at Sierra School of Gilbert Director Mr. Matt, with both smiling after the fun moment. I-Ready Milestones Celebration Brings Laughter and Learning At Sierra School of Gilbert, we take student achievement seriously, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun! Our recent I-Ready milestones celebration was the perfect example of how we inspire students to stay motivated [...]
Shark Bites Café: Serving Up Life Skills One Meal at a Time
The Shark Bites Café at the Sierra School of Alhambra is more than just a place to grab a quick bite. Originally conceived as a small stand selling chips and drinks, it has blossomed into a vibrant hub where students and staff come together, fostering community and life skills in equal measure. At lunchtime every Thursday, the café buzzes with excitement as students eagerly anticipate their turn to participate [...]
Career Exploration Fair Day at High Road School of Wallingford Inspires Students
High Road School In Wallingford Hosts Career Exploration Fair Day The event offered students the opportunity to explore career paths and featured community members from police, music production, and media. WALLINGFORD, CT — The High Road School of Wallingford hosted a Career Exploration Fair Day on Oct. 22. The event offered students the opportunity to explore exciting career paths and featured community members Sergeant Henry Cadett of [...]
Birthday Celebrations Bring Families Together
Birthdays are more than just a date on the calendar. For children especially, birthdays are a chance to feel seen, valued and celebrated. However, for some families, hosting a party can present challenges due to intensive special needs or behavioral issues. When leadership at the Sierra School at Allen heard from families about the difficulty around birthday celebrations, they took the party planning into their own hands. Now, it [...]
Sierra School of Alhambra Aide Bridges Language Barrier
John Paul Buha joined the Sierra School of Alhambra to bring his rich background in Chinese literature and a master’s in education from California State University to support a Mandarin-speaking student. Little did he know that this role would become much more than a job – it would be a life-changing experience, for both him and the student. David, a 10-year-old Chinese native diagnosed with neurodevelopmental delay and hyperactivity, [...]
Lexington Life Academy’s Trunk-or-Treat Brings Together Halloween Spirit and Community
The South Mountain campus of Lexington Life Academy recently hosted its Trunk-or-Treat, an exciting celebration in the spirit of Halloween that brought together staff, students and families. Students and teachers enchanted everyone with their frightfully fun costumes, from spooky classics and colorful creatures to powerful superheroes. As the sun set, the school’s campus transformed with brightly decorated car trunks and plenty of delicious treats for everyone. Beyond the spook-tacular [...]
Finding the Perfect Fit for Wyatt
For Jessica Evans, finding the right school for her son Wyatt was challenging. After difficult experiences during kindergarten, she knew he needed a supportive environment that could help him grow and engage with the world. Lexington Life Academy turned out to be exactly what Wyatt – and the Evans family – needed. “What made me love Lexington with all of my heart was the fact that we would be [...]
SESI Salutes Our Veterans in the Classroom
In honor of Veterans Day, SESI thanks the dedicated educators within our family for their service. From their roles within the United States Armed Forces to classrooms throughout the country, these teachers bring unique skills and experiences to the classroom, where they foster compassion, structure, and resilience. Their stories remind us of the meaningful contributions veterans make in the world of education and the invaluable role they play in [...]
October 2024 Student Spotlight
Ross is a 9th grade student here at High Road School of Bucyrus. Ross has been at High Road since the very beginning and we have loved watching his growth year after year. Ross brings so much enjoyment to the classroom and the school. Ross enjoys movies,CDS/DVDs, Taco Bell and Cosmic Brownies. Ross's classroom would like to share a few words about why he deserves the student spotlight: "Ross [...]
September 2024 Student Spotlight!
September Student Spotlight! Isaac Smith Issac is a 3rd-grade student here at High Road School of Bucyrus! Isaac enjoys playing at the park, riding his bike, and playing games! Some of Isaac's favorite foods are chicken nuggets, straberries, carrots & ice cream! Issac's teacher would like to share a few words about his success: "Issac is a 2nd grader in the Elementary SPARK classroom. This is his first school [...]
August 2024 Student Spotlight!
Xander Riley Xander is a second-grade student here at High Road School of Bucyrus. Xander enjoys any candy, but especially sour and gummy candy, books, pop-its, and the iPad! Xander’s classroom would like to share a few words about why he deserves the student spotlight: “Xander has really shined so far this year! His willingness to participate and show what he knows has been such a leading force in [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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, [...]
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 [...]