1 2 3
Higashi
Highlights
Challenge
Believe
Together
Summer 2014 The Principal’s Perspective “I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; Together we can do great things.” -Mother Teresa
The 2013 – 2014 school year is ready to become a memory. It truly was a year of success and significance. When we consider the concept of success, we tend to focus on goals accomplished and tasks completed. As we delve deeper, we reflect on significance and our thoughts become centered on the essence of meaning and purpose. The “what” of our actions must be entwined with the “why” of our efforts in order to impact the now of the present moment, while trying to make a sustainable contribution toward the future. “Resilience” was the theme we chose to fuel us forward during this past year. This seemed to resonate well with all of our stakeholders. Most importantly, our tenacious students demonstrated the power of resilience in a variety of ways each day as they worked hard to master the challenges set forth every day. Their
example both inspired and encouraged staff and families to go from “gasp to grasp.” The administration worked tirelessly to espouse and support a culture of efficacy where both collective and individual goals could be met in a nurturing, safe and orderly environment. The challenge remains to maintain and ensure a continuous and smooth flow of communication within an ever-changing milieu. Our very competent and dedicated staff brought their creativity, passion and resilience to their respective roles and enriched campus life in many ways. Teamwork, coupled with the consistency of high expectations and positivity paved the way. We were blessed with visits from prominent and notable experts throughout the year. They came from both near and far to engage with us and share their many talents, work and research. We were educated and entertained, motivated and moved by their personal stories of setbacks and victories. Parents, siblings, extended family members and volunteers augmented all of our efforts and events. Just as a dragonfly needs that extra pair of wings to fly,
we were able to soar because of the extra help and support we received from all of you. I extend my deepest gratitude to one and all for turning a splash into a ripple that reached far and wide. As we prepare for the new school year our thoughts and plans are framed around “scaling up excellence.” We want to raise performance levels, beginning with returning to the basics of Daily Life Therapy®, and progressing to the more complex areas of new curriculum, enhanced safety and security protocols and ongoing facility renovations. We accept the premise that it takes the best in each of us to bring about the best for all of us. Keeping that in mind, the theme for 2014 – 2015 will celebrate the power and uplift that comes from working together with one vision. May the summer conclude with bright moments and happy memories for us to treasure. Remember…
Together Everyone Achieves More Deborah Donovan, Principal Photo courtesy of Lifetouch
Accredited by The National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services The Boston Higashi School is affiliated with Lesley University.
The International Program for Individuals with Autism since 1987 800 North Main Street, Randolph, MA 02368 781-961-0800 www.bostonhigashi.org
3 1 2
Elementary Highlights Pedaling Towards the End Happy summer from the Elementary Division! We are feeling the positive vibes from our excellent performances at the Annual Celebration this year! We want to thank everyone for coming out and being a wonderfully supportive audience. We showed our resilience “Bouncing Back” on the pogo sticks, and celebrated our music talents with “It's a Small World After All” using our keyboard
Chris Stanbrook, Elementary Master Teacher harmonicas. We are currently enjoying the summer, with our P.E. teacher Akiko, who is teaching us how to ride a bicycle! We are also excited about the upcoming opening of the pool here on campus. We are having so much fun learning and gaining new experiences. Finally, we are preparing for our next event, the Bon Dance in August! Art teacher Kristina has been helping us to make our Mikoshis so we can carry them in the parade. We have been having
Middle School Highlights Endings and New Beginnings The Middle School Division has had an eventful, fun year! We were sad to say good-bye to Kazu, our Physical Education Teacher, in April, but have enjoyed getting to know our new teacher Josh this summer. Everyone did a great job impressing the school with their unicycle skills. The very first
Junior High Highlights Fun in the Summer Sun Junior High has had a fantastic year, and are having some fun in the summer sun! Over the past school year we have had the pleasure of welcoming new students and staff to the division. All students have made fantastic progress in all areas of their curriculum, and continue to do so throughout the summer months. This summer Junior High added some fun activities to their weekly academic schedules. All classes are learning a variety of
2
many dance practices, and are getting ready to dance around the Yagura Stage. We are eager to show our family and friends how much we have improved since September. We have a large group of students who will participate in the Bon Dance for the first time, and we are excited to show them how much fun we can have! See you there! “Wa-Shoi!”
John McAllister, Middle School Master Teacher
Higashi Marching Band marched their way into everyone’s hearts. Middle school students have been working hard in class, and their reading, writing and math skills have improved greatly over the course of the year. Everyone is excited to end the summer with a really fun Bon Dance. We are looking forward to new adventures in the fall!
Marching Band Moves
Jen Kelley, Junior High Master Teacher backyard games, building on cooking skills, playing basketball, and enjoying the relaxing art of yoga. Junior High shined at the Annual Celebration this year. The students worked hard practicing for the big show, and enjoyed their moment in the spotlight! Students and staff are now busy preparing for the next big event, “Bon Dance.” During Art classes, they are working on making the Mikoshi for the Mikoshi parade, and practicing the dances for Bon Dance during assembly times. All of the students should be very
proud of the resilience they have shown throughout the school year. They not only achieved, but exceeded their goals! Junior High would like to thank all the students’ families and friends who have helped along the way. We look forward to seeing everyone at the Bon Dance!
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
1 2 3
High School Highlights Stores Galore and More The students in High School did a great job at Annual Celebration showing off their basketball skills to their family and friends. They also worked hard at the “Higashi T-shirt & Snack Store.” This year, for the first time, they also worked at the Ceramic Store. Everyone did a fantastic job at their assigned jobs. Now that we are back from vacation, both the students and
Jen Tomase, High School Master Teacher
teachers are settling into the summer schedule. The students are enjoying outdoor games, such as, disc golf. They are also learning about the life cycle of a butterfly and they are enjoying watching them turn from caterpillars into beautiful butterflies. As the year winds down the High School students are getting ready for Bon Dance Festival. They are excited to show their family and friends the dances that they have been practicing, and to show off the
Emergence Highlights One Season Following Another Our Emergence Program students have been spending some of their time reviewing the 2013-2014 academic year. We have had a wonderful year, with almost half our students completing their first year in EP. All students and staff have adapted well, and after only one school year, it is hard to tell the EP rookies and veterans apart. The students mastered many academic units, including safety skills, banking, anti-bullying, Thanksgiving, leisure activities, nutrition & cooking, and how to use their free/leisure time constructively, just to name a few. They also created their annual science projects. We are quickly learning the new Smart board technologies available in the school library. All students and staff continue to increase their comfort level and expertise in the use of iPads, and the communication, vocational and leisure apps that go along with them. We held our Annual Golf Tournament in October, for EP’s Sports Day. In preparation for the golf tournament, EP students
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Mikoshi that they made during art class at the Mikoshi Parade.
Butterflies are Growing in HS!
Paul Brennan, EP Master Teacher visited and practiced at a local driving range, as well as the par 3 golf course that we used for the actual tournament. Everyone had an awesome time, showing off their skills with their families, teachers, and friends. A highlight of the year for us was the Winter Music Festival. Thomas Y. successfully performed his first trombone solo! This was a wonderful moment for him, his parents and for all his teachers. We were all so glad to share that moment with him. As far as social activities, we had our annual Halloween Dance Party, Winter Dance Party and Valentine Dance Party, each event requiring more formal attire than the last, thus preparing students to participate in their Formal Dance and Graduation Party. That was a very memorable day for all students, dressing up in tuxes or beautiful dresses. The ladies of EP prepared for the event by participating in their annual “Beauty Day.” As always, the Formal Dance was an event to be remembered. The graduates this year, Melissa, Noelle, Connor, Oliver, Max, Zachary M., Harry, Michael S., Kelsey, and Christopher W, did a
wonderful job, making their parents, families, friends and teachers beam with pride as they became the graduating Class of 2014. The day after the Formal Dance we had our Annual EP Brunch, which was a lovely event. This helped us wind down nicely from the previous day’s excitement, leading us calmly into our spring vacation. During the final term, as the rest of the school busied themselves in academics and preparations for the Annual Celebration, life continued as normal for the EP Division. We all worked hard fulfilling our commitments to the community, as we participated in our myriad job sites both on and off campus. We had the privilege of watching the AC stage rehearsal, and then on the day of the Annual Celebration, the EP staff and students had a day out, first going bowling, and then out for ice cream. All in all, another excellent day, and an excellent final term in EP, where students and staff continue to be active members of a productive, caring community.
3
1 2 3
Transition News A Series of Hellos and Goodbyes The 2013/2014 school year saw many students transition successfully to the next level. However, the summer has been quiet for transition, with only 2 students departing so
Joe Murphy, Director of Transition far. It is always great to hear from our former students and cheer the wonderful things they are doing. Saying good-bye to so many has been difficult for all of us, but we know our students and families will continue to push forward and always remember their time at Boston Higashi School. We hope all the graduates
Melissa Alfred
Noelle Donlan
Connor Farrell
Oliver Goodwin
Max Lewin-Karras
Zachary MacKinnon
4
and families visit often! Boston Higashi School wishes all the graduates the best of luck. We can’t wait to hear about all of the great things that they have accomplished beyond their education.
Harry Marcel
Michael Scanlon III
Kelsey Taylor
Christopher Williams
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Emergence Brunch June 23rd, 2014
Alumni Brunch
June 22nd, 2014
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
5
Annual Celebration
6
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
June 22nd, 2014
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
7
1 2 3
Residential Roundup Thanks All Around With the school year coming to a close, I would like to send out a word of thanks for a year of successes, and a promise to keep the theme of “resilience” in our minds and hearts for years to come. This year has been one of continued achievements, but also challenges from which we can learn. It is so important for teachers and students alike to accept the challenges, big and small, that present themselves.
Christopher White, Residential Program Director With our continued perseverance, together we can reap the rewards of success.
to heart” education. You give so much of yourselves each day to our program and the children you teach.
To the students: You have gone beyond our expectations. Thank you for being our teachers. To the parents: Thank you for trusting us to care for and teach those closest to your heart.
To the supervisory staff: Without your guidance and leadership, we would not have the world-class program we do today. Thank you. Wishing everyone a restful break before another school year.
To the teachers: There are not enough words to fully thank you. You are the first “heart” in “heart
Residence News - Intermediate Splashin’ and Dancin’ The Intermediate Division has had a great time at school this year! We loved celebrating our friends’ birthdays. We visited local ponds, went out to dinner, played with our friends, and did some hiking, just to mention a few of our activities. We love summer – this is our favorite time
of the year. If there is one thing Intermediate students love, it is the water, and this year swimming has been great fun! We are very excited, as soon we will be on beach trips, and our pool will be open. We play with water every time we get a chance! Another favorite activity we all like to do is dance. Actually, we dance every day. It always starts with Christian
leading the way, then all the other students following behind. Once we get started, we keep going and going. We laughed and smiled a lot this year, courtesy of our many fun-filled events and activities! Thank you all for supporting us this year, and we look forward to a great new school year starting in the fall!
Residence News – Junior High A A Year of Fun The school year of 2013-2014 may be coming to an end, but JH-A Division is going strong, planning special activities such as visiting the Children’s Museum in
Boston and division cook-outs to enjoy the summer season. Thank you to all the parents and siblings who came to the Residential Family Day on July 19th. We hope you all enjoyed the cook-out, the fun activities we planned, and the time you spent
with us. Lastly, thank you to all the students and division staff who made this school year so very special through hard work, resilience, and a positive attitude. Everyone has grown in so many ways!
Fun with Our Teachers and Families on Family Day 2014! 8
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
1 2 3
Residence News – Junior High B spring, JH-B was fully prepared for summer activities. We started the season with Family Day where families, friends, teachers and students participated in many fun activities. This was a great opportunity for our students to showcase their talents and skills.
Year-Round Fun JH-B teachers and students know how to have fun. Be it fall, winter, spring or summer, each season is an opportunity for learning and having fun in Junior High B. After a long winter and
Our day began with our favorite activities such as water slide, animal show, a hayride, mini golf, and a car wash, and it ended with a summer music concert, enjoyed by all! Everyone learned that fun can be part of every season!
Residence News – Girls’ Division Plenty of Summer Fun The Girls Division has been filled with summer sunshine. It’s been a busy summer! We have had outdoor field trips, attended Evan’s Run, and most recently, welcomed friends and family for
Family Day. One of our favorite activities is the dance marathon we occasionally have in the girls living room. Superstar dancer, Miss Isis W. has twirled her way back to Vermont. We all miss you Icey! This year has gone by very
quickly. Our girls have adjusted their fashions to greet each season with a style all their own. It has been a true joy to watch them grow and develop. We can’t wait to see what fall will bring!
Residence News – High School Division Let the Sun Shine As the splendid rays of the summer sun shines on our beloved school, and as the end of the year approaches, High School Division can only look back with a marked nostalgia for the great moments we have had this year. Our enviable teamwork once again was on display as we
welcomed two new friends: Sean and Austin. Currently, the two enthusiastic young men are comfortable and ready to grow and learn together with their peers. Together, we have enjoyed and triumphed in the following occasions: Family Day, a trip to the Museum of Science, playing arcade games at Westgate Lanes,
Bowling, and playing golf, to name a few activities. However, we are a little hesitant to bid goodbye to this year...not until we do it in style at our “Out to Eat” trip to a Chinese restaurant, the Yangtze Inn, next month. We are looking forward to a smooth transition to the next academic year.
Residence News – Young Adults Transitioning to New Levels The school year of 2013–2014 is coming to a close, and the students of the Young Adult division are prepared. They have focused on many aspects of preparation for independent
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
living, and have increased their quality of life with the hard work they put in this year. The students have learned from their teachers but also the teachers have learned equally from the students. We have learned together that if you are resilient each day, and learn
from the days past, anything is truly possible. Have a restful summer break, and a word of welcome for all we can learn next school year together!
9
1 2 3
Residence News – Emergence Girls Summer: Our Favorite Season The Emergence Girls and teachers are in high spirits. We have been enjoying the awesome grass and trees, the strawberries and watermelons, the smell of barbecue, and the beautiful ember-red sunsets. The summer season is providing our students
with opportunities for fun activities such as hiking, shopping, golfing, swimming and nature walks. Making artwork with beads is a favorite art activity. Kudos to the teachers, who teach with their hearts, determination, focus and resilience. As a result of this teamwork, they are able to meet the students’ needs each and
every day. As the season continues, we hope to let the spirit of endless summer within each of our students shine on. Lastly, we would like to say goodbye to Noelle D., and wish her good luck on her future endeavors. We will miss you!
A few of our EP students grab a quick bite before the bowling tournament on Family Day.
Residence News – Emergence Boys The Masters of Cool, and the Grill The Emergence Program Boys has been very busy in 2014. This year we welcomed William (Zevi) B., Ryan S., Thomas Y., Kevin H., and Gustavo C. The boys had so much fun showing off their cool dance moves during the school dances. Our students also attended the Formal Dance Party in April where Zachary M., Oliver G., Max LK., Harry M., Christopher W., Connor F., and Michael S. were our guests of honor as they
10
graduated from Boston Higashi School during this wonderful event. We wish them all the best of luck in their adult programs. The Emergence Program has taken many weekend trips. These include community trips to local parks in the spring to observe the beauty of blossoming flowers, the New England Aquarium to learn about aquatic life, and Showcase Cinemas to see the latest movies out in theaters, just to name a few. The students in our program practiced their shopping skills as we have visited Lowe’s to shop for
items for our gardening projects. They have also participated in several bowling trips that helped them prepare for the EP bowling tournament on Family Day. Our students learned how cook a delicious chicken stir fry, and have become “kings of the grill” while grilling steak and hamburgers on our outdoor grills. We have had a very busy and enjoyable summer!
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
1 2 3
Parent’s Perspective As we come to the close of another busy school year, I would like to extend a thank you to all the parents for supporting the Parents Association. I offer appreciation to our dedicated staff for their top-notch efforts with our children. The theme this year was “Resilience.” Our children met new challenges every day throughout the year. This starts in the fall at Sports Day where our students enjoyed various activities as members of their respective classes and divisions. Winter Music Festival allowed our children to share their musical talents that get everyone in the holiday spirit. Spring brought the Higashi Road Race, where runners of all levels and abilities cross the finish line with pride. Late in June, Annual Celebration showcased the accomplishments of everyone on that great big stage. All parents are proud not only of their child, but of all children at Boston Higashi School.
Janet Murphy, Parent Association President
It has been a pleasure to provide staff appreciation in the form of pizza parties, ice cream socials, coffee donations, and so many other ways to express our gratitude for all that staff do to make the Higashi experience so special. We had a great summer day at the Pawtucket Red Sox game in June. I am confident that all who attended had a wonderful time. These family fun community events are learning opportunities for everyone. Our last traditional event of the year is the Bon Dance, a time to enjoy the diverse international cultures of the Higashi family. We also elect new officers for the Parent Association Executive Board at this event. Every parent/guardian is able to cast a vote. I would like to especially thank Maryellen Paradise, Administrative Assistant to the Principal, and parent liaison to the Parents Association, for her continued support throughout the year. I
extend my admiration and gratitude to the 2013/2014 Parent Association Board Members this year: Paula Haite, First Vice President; Charles Borlam, Out of State Vice President; Lisa Burgess, Second Vice President; Cheryl Begnal, Treasurer; Julie Coppenrath, Assistant Treasurer; Paula Baldassini, Recording Secretary; and Patrice Dwyer, our Corresponding Secretary. We have enjoyed welcoming new families throughout the year, and look forward to hearing comments and suggestions for the Parents Association to continue to be of service to students, families, and staff at Boston Higashi School. Janet Murphy President, Boston Higashi School Parents Association
We Hope You Can Join Us! Parent Collaboration Meeting
September 3rd, 2014 – 8:30 to Noon We are so pleased to welcome alumni parents, Frank and Diann Sespico. Their daughter, Nicol, was a student of Dr. Kitahara at the Musashino Higashi School in Tokyo, and a member of the first class at the Boston Higashi School. Nicol and her parents have been an inspiration and beacon of light to so many. Their book, Nicol’s Way, chronicles their incredible journey raising their daughter with autism from infancy to adulthood using Daily Life Therapy®.
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
11
th
July 19 , 2014
12
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Family Day
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
13
1 2 3
School Security
Security: A Year in Review The Boston Higashi School believes that student and staff safety and security is our number one priority. Throughout the years we have implemented many new security upgrades, as well as revised our policies and procedures, to help ensure that the BHS campus is a safe and secure environment. The following information will detail the many steps we have taken to achieve that goal. Three principles have helped shape our approach to school security. The first is an emphasis on prevention; the second, recognition of the necessity for a continuous program of training to insure that prevention and crisis response activities become an ongoing process throughout the school; and third, that staff will be empowered to act immediately in the best interest of all those in the school community. On June 12th, 2014, BHS staff met with representatives from the Randolph Police and Fire Departments to review our safety and security initiatives and discuss best practices. Prior to this meeting, school staff have met with representatives from two other police departments. For many years BHS has worked
14
Ron Lauri, Director of Quality Assurance with the Tesla Security Systems to assist us with the needed technology to adequately secure the campus. These on-going, important partnerships with law enforcement agencies and other first responders help us to continually re-evaluate our security systems and make the necessary changes that enable us to be better prepared in case of any potential threats or emergencies that we may experience. The BHS Child Safety Committee plays a vital role in coordinating our efforts with all community resources, and monitoring existing safety and security practices for compliance with best practices. The following is a list of the security changes we have implemented so far: • • • • • • • •
•
•
• •
Visitor Management Plan Adding additional security cameras Electronically locking doors One-way privacy window film on all lower floor levels Door alarms New classroom door locks Staff photo ID’s Camera surveillance monitors at the Day and Residential reception areas Immediate access to the BHS camera surveillance cameras for first responders at the reception areas Video intercom systems at the day and residential reception areas Lock down procedures Safety Net Program
We are now in the process of upgrading our campus-wide intercom system, so that staff may communicate and respond in the most effective manner if an emergency situation arises. We
are also piloting a new Incident Command Plan at the Residence. This plan helps to organize and deploy staff by setting up a command center if an emergency occurs so we can use all our resources in the most efficient way. The new pool complex will utilize many of these existing security measures we have in place to help prevent any unauthorized access to this area. A Visitor Management Plan is regarded by many as one of the most effective tools to prevent unwanted visitors into a facility. Having visitors sign in and out and wear a visitor pass when they come to the school can be a strong deterrent to a potential intruder. Limiting access to people entering into our school buildings through the day and residential reception area entrances has also proven to be an effective tool. We continue to ask for your cooperation and support in this area. Please use the day and residential reception entrances when you come to campus, make sure you are signed into the building, and wear your visitor pass while you are on campus. We have made all of these changes with the intent to preserve BHS as a typical and welcoming school environment for students, staff, parents, and visitors. At the same time, we have had to prepare ourselves to address unexpected situations on campus that might possibly interfere or disrupt our regular way of life. We strive to achieve that balance. Please contact me at extension 116 if you have any questions or other ideas that you think may be helpful.
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
1 2 3
Health Room News New Happenings in the Health Room Summer is coming to an end, and a new school year will be upon us very soon. In preparation, the nurses have been busy sorting through submitted Health Room forms and new orders. Please continue to send in the required documentation, which includes updated physical exams & immunizations, any physician’s orders for medication, consent forms, and insurance updates. As a reminder – physical & dental exams are required yearly, and we are unable to administer medication (including over the counter meds) without a yearly physician’s order and signed consent. BHS follows MA Department of Public Health immunizations requirements, and for those with children who are under-immunized, I’m happy to address any concerns regarding exclusion in the event of an outbreak at the school. New for this year, all residential students will be using Higashi’s contracted pharmacy, Apothecare. If you have not already done so, please submit the required paperwork and prescriptions in order to make the transition to Apothecare. Feel free to call the Health Room at extension 208 if you have questions as to how to proceed. We would like to take a moment to welcome the American Dental Associates of Massachusetts to Higashi. We recently formed a partnership with this group of dedicated dental hygienists who will be providing on-site preventative dental services to students. This is an optional service, and in order to participate, parents must submit the required
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Tracy Shepherd, Head Nurse consent and payment information. They accept Mass Health or private pay, at a cost of $75/cleaning. A separate mailing was sent out with detailed information, and parents are encouraged to call the Health Room with any questions. I’m pleased to announce that our Nurse Practitioner, Joyelle Collins, has been accepted for a fellowship by the LEND program Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities at the Institute for Community Inclusion at Children's Hospital Boston. The LEND program provides advanced interdisciplinary training to health and counseling professionals and families to improve their knowledge in working with children, adolescents and young adults with developmental and related disabilities. This training is multi-focused and ranges from policy issues and team collaboration, to specific clinical practice and support models. Trainees develop their leadership potential to improve the status of infants, children, and adolescents with (or who are at risk for) neurodevelopmental disabilities,
and to enhance systems of care for these children and their families. Joyelle will begin the program in the Fall, and the experience and training she gains will certainly enhance Health Services here at Higashi. Congratulations Joyelle! The Health Room has undergone some staffing changes over the past few months. We’d like to welcome Krishma Shrestha as our new Medical Administrative Assistant. Krishma comes to us from the Residential Program and has a vast knowledge of the school’s philosophy, as well as familiarity with our students. She also has a Masters degree in Health Informatics and Management, and she has already proven to be an asset to the Health Room. Please stop in and welcome her! We also have a new overnight nurse, Lyse Augustin – as well as a per-diem nurse, Kellie McLaughlin, who joined us in the Spring. Lyse and Kellie are welcome additions to our team, and we hope you have a chance to stop in and say hello.
15
Sibling Day August 1st, 2014
16
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Bon Dance August 10th, 2014
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
17
Spotlight On…
Sports Congratulations to this year’s Special Olympics participants! This year, Nicolas Baldassini, Kyle Mattie, and Thomas Yamazaki represented Higashi at the games, held June 6th-8th. Thanks also to the staff who came out to support our students, Stanley Akula, Jason Hurlock, Tomoko Ogino, Kenny Yan, and Makiba White.
This year we had 7 students from Junior High, High School, and our Emergence Program participate in Evan’s Run on May 18th. Evan’s Run is an annual 5K race, benefitting the Evan Henry Foundation, raising both money and awareness for autism. This year’s runners were Patrick Ganss, Ryan Haite, Billy Coleman, Nick Baldassini, Paul Winand, and Kyle Campbell. Great job runners!
On July 20th, High School student Nicolas Baldassini sang the National Anthem at our very own Fenway Park, as part of the opening ceremonies celebrating Special Olympics. We are so proud of you Nick!
18
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Clinical Corner Reflections on ASA, by Rebecca Golden The third week of July marked an incredibly exciting time in the world of Autism research. For five days, I had the fortunate pleasure of joining Dr. Stephen Shore at the Autism Society of America’s annual conference in Indianapolis, IN, where I learned a great deal about ASD research and met wonderful people. Throughout the week, I attended nearly a dozen panels, seminars, and presentations held by educators, parents, advocates, and individuals with ASD. Some of my favorites included: “The Role of Friendship and Mentoring in ASDs”, “Strategies for Encouraging Reciprocal Communication with Children with ASD”, “Finding Humor as an Asset of Resiliency: Challenging the Challenges Involved with ASD”, and “Humanoid Robotics Changing the Special Education Classroom”. Each session provided fascinating insight about creative methods for improving quality of life for people with ASD. I also enjoyed the presentation by the keynote speaker, Temple Grandin, From left to right: Rebecca Golden, who used a neurological approach to explain ASD. After her Dr. Stephen Shore, Temple Grandin, presentation, I was able to take a picture with her, Stephen, and Benedict Wang & Marcel Semaun. two of his close friends from Singapore, Mr. Benedict Wang and Mr. Marcel Semaun. One session at the conference, “Playing with a Robot: Enhancing Social Communication and Interaction”, was particularly memorable for me because I was one of the presenters! Stephen and I were given over an hour to talk about the Boston Higashi School research that used a socially intelligent robot, PARO, to enhance social communication. Our presentation was very well received by our audience of more than fifty people, and a few even approached us after our presentation with an interest in our school. I couldn’t resist sharing some of the amazing milestones that our students have reached because of Daily Life Therapy® and the committed staff at Boston Higashi School. This trip was absolutely unforgettable and I am so thankful to Mike Kelly, Deb Donovan, Ann Roberts, and Marilou Wilkinson for setting up such a wonderful opportunity for me. I hope that we can continue to use research to improve life for individuals with ASD.
Motivate, Unite, Socialize, Inspire, Challenge In mid July, Mr. Kaname Ueno, Dr. Stephen Shore, Principal Deborah Donovan, and Dr. Ann Roberts (photo left), traveled to Braga, Portugal to give a presentation at the Council for Exceptional Children’s Division of International Special Education Conference “Embracing Inclusive Approaches For Children and Youth with Special Needs.” It was an honor and a privilege to showcase our instrumental, vocal and classroom music programs. Boston Higashi School believes in the intrinsic value of music. Music activates the brain in a variety of ways. We know first hand how music benefits the spirit and supports learning in both overt and subtle ways. Our systematic approach utilizes differentiated and group-based instruction to teach musical skills to one and all. The character of Albus Dumbledore in Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone expresses it best: “Ah, music he said, wiping his eyes. A magic far beyond all we do here.”
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
19
Higashi Happenings – Exciting Events are Everywhere!
The GrayMist, a cozy studio and shop for exquisite gifts and Nantucket Baskets in Cambridge, invited our Jazz Band for a special summer event called “Huron Village’s First Thursday” on August 7th. The Jazz Band members performed outside of the studio twice, for about an hour total, and fascinated people walking by the Huron Village with their delightful music. After the gig, the Jazz Band members enjoyed pizza, Japanese food, and sweets in the backyard with staff and friends of the GrayMist. Special thanks to GrayMist, especially Mrs. Shinoda for this great opportunity, and to the Maki family for the delicious refreshments.
On July 25th, our Jazz Band played at the Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge as part of the “Toys AUcross America” 1 Year Anniversary Gala, presented by Kulture City. Toys AUcross America is a charitable organization, founded by a father and his 12-year-old son, which started with the simple act of wanting to share toys with those on the autism spectrum. In the past year it has grown from “just a dad mailing trains” to an organization that has sent over 800 toys to children all over the United States! Our Jazz Band performed 10 jazz tunes, a set that lasted almost an hour, and was a great kickoff to the evening’s festivities.
20
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Higashi Happenings – Exciting Events are Everywhere! As the students returned from the June/July break, the Parent Collaboration Meeting on Monday, July 7th welcomed guest speaker Ralph Poland, the Law Enforcement Liaison for SafetyNet by LoJack. The SafetyNet Bracelet is a radio frequency location system employed by local police departments. The technology makes it easy to find and rescue people with autism who tend to wander and become lost. SafetyNet by LoJack quickly notifies public safety agencies to find your child and bring them home as quickly as possible. Many of our students are currently wearing the SafetyNet Bracelet and their parents report peace of mind knowing that they could be quickly located should they bolt or wander. We thank Mr. Poland for sharing this very important information to our parents. For more information visit www.safetynetbylojack.com, or contact 1-877-434-6384.
A very special THANK YOU to Michelle Blanken who spent this past year volunteering in our Elementary division. Michelle first volunteered with us as a Thayer Academy student in the spring of 2013 before she graduated. She decided to take a gap year before college, and Michelle volunteered full-time with us this past school year! She was an invaluable asset to the Elementary team, and she will be greatly missed as she heads to Scripps College in the fall.
We are so proud of Vocational Activity Leader Kenny Yan. Kenny is the lead author of the article “Disability and the Asian Culture,” published in The Journal of Applied Rehabilitation Counseling Summer 2014 edition. We admire his intellect and dedication to not only our school and students, but also to the field at large.
CEO Mike Kelly and Principal Deb Donovan had the opportunity to chat with Governor Deval Patrick and Congressman Michael Capuano recently at an event in Cambridge, MA. It was quite a thrill to hear these prestigious men offer their respect and admiration for the work being done at Boston Higashi School.
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
21
1 2 3
Daycare Delights Time Flies When You’re Having Fun Wow! The year has flown by. It’s hard to believe next month will be September - the start of the 2014/2015 school year. We have made many exciting plans and we have new children to enroll. But before we start thinking about the beginning of a new school year, lets wrap up this past school year. In June, we celebrated Father’s Day and honored our dads with our annual Father’s Day Cookout and Wiffle Ball Game. It was a close call, but the children’s team prevailed and won the wiffle ball game against the dads. Even Chris Stanbrook’s slide to home base couldn’t beat the children’s
22
Pam Patrone, Director of Daycare team. We went through 70 hotdogs at our cook-out! Baked beans, potato salad, assorted chips, drinks… You name it, we had it! This event is always a lot of fun, and this year was no exception. Our next event is the Bon Dance. The older preschool children have been making their Mikoshi for the parade. Resilience is the theme for this year. They have been learning about resilience through the story, The Little Engine That Could. This story teaches the children about optimism, hard work and resilience. No matter what obstacles you encounter in life, whenever life knocks you down, you get up and keep going. After Bon Dance will be our Preschool Graduation. This year
we have three children who will be moving on to other schools: Arashi A., Charlie Y., and Peter K. These boys have done so much to get ready for kindergarten and can’t wait to get started, but first, they have to graduate from preschool! The date is set for Thursday, August 14th at 4:45pm in Marble Hall. It is a really exciting and emotional event as we celebrate the children’s accomplishments in a grand ceremony with all their family members present. As we prepare for the 2014/2015 school year, we reflect on years past. Despite any obstacles we may have met, we remain resilient, and look forward to the adventures that lie ahead.
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Comings, Goings and Everything In Between at Higashi Gina Norton, Human Resources Manager
We have welcomed the following new staff to BHS since our last publication: Joshua Yousif, Physical Education Teacher, Anaele Amaechi, Residential Instructor, Louisa Akagori, Residential Instructor, Cole Giannini, Residential Instructor, Chukwudi Ugwu, Residential Instructor, Beatrice Lau, Residential Instructor, Gina Norton, Human Resource Manager, and we welcome back Regina Mwangai as a Classroom Teacher. Please introduce yourself to these new employees when you see them!
We offer our sincerest condolences to Joseph Gichemi, Patrick Idima, Mike Kelly, Samuel Nyamu and Makiba White on the loss of their family members.
We said goodbye to the following staff: Carolyn Lam, Michael Laub, Njeri Mbure, Clesia Ramos, and Pat Downey. We wish them well in their future endeavors and thank them for their dedication to the students and staff here at Higashi.
Congratulations to Charles Agong and his wife, Eunice, on the birth of their daughter, Zuwena Odhiambo
Congratulations to Marion Wangai and her husband, Frederick, on the birth of their daughter, Megan Mahihu
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014
Congratulations to Janelle Palleschi and her husband, Mark, on the birth of their son, Jack Joseph
Congratulations to Joseph Gichemi and his wife, Veronica, on the birth of their daughter, Alice
23
1 2 3
More Please
A Season of Good Eats
Summer has finally arrived. The outside temperatures are cooperating nicely with all our outdoor activities. The waterslide on the big hill has given the students many hours of fun and excitement. With the amount of excitement that this causes, I can only imagine the thrill that will be in the air when the new pool opens. This facility is truly state of the art. The herbs and spice projects has been very well received, they are being used in the kitchen and in our Culinary Arts program. We have encouraged staff to take home herbs and spices for their home cooking. The first crop of tomatoes has been harvested and we received over twenty-five pounds!
24
Bill Burke, Executive Chef The tomatoes have been used in our salads and at the salad bar. We have been assured that many more will be appearing in the kitchen shortly. There really is a big difference between what you buy in the super market and what you taste out of the garden. Many other vegetables have been planted, but will not be harvested until later in August. We are looking forward to our own sweet corn and squash. Pumpkins have also been planted, and will be ready in early October just in time for our pumpkin carving contests and pumpkin seed treats. Thanks John and the activity leaders for all their hard work. Both Fun Day and Family Day at the Residence were joyful times to all who participated. The all you can eat sundae bar always is a favorite. I wonder why? Our final Parents Training of the year
ended with a cook-out, and was well received by all who attended. Thanks to Heather Katz for organizing the trainings throughout the year. We all will be busy for the next couple of weeks as the school year winds to a close, but the enjoyment of the season and the smiles on our students faces makes everything worthwhile.
The first crop of tomatoes from the Higashi Garden!
Higashi Highlights Summer 2014