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Spring 2014 THE PRINCIPAL’S PERSPECTIVE SOWING THE SEEDS OF POSSIBILITY AND POSITIVITY “Though I do not believe that a plant will spring up where no seed has been, I have great faith in a seed. Convince me that you have a seed there, and I am prepared to expect wonders.”
-Henry David Thoreau
Despite our doubts and impatience, spring has indeed arrived. We appreciate the longer days with blue skies and sun, and embrace some rain and wind to nurture and pollinate growth. Every day at Boston Higashi School is an autism awareness moment but in April we joined in the celebration of National Autism Awareness Month with a variety of offerings and events. We know that autism does not define or describe who our students are in total. Each of them is a unique individual with strengths and challenges who inspire and teach us to become more, and do more than we could ever conceive. As we expose our students to more and more opportunities, both on and off campus, the impossible becomes possible and the fear of failure diminishes with every success and triumph. Staff and families have all had the thrill of witnessing an initial gasp turn into a strong grasp. We work together because we understand that making sustainable
progress is a collective effort. Besides, it’s more fun! I was delighted to host three book chats about the NY Times bestseller, “The Reason I Jump.” This book was written from the perspective of a thirteen year- old boy with autism. He offers answers to questions about why he does certain things. Various parts of the book resonated with staff and parents. The willingness to share and learn from each other was so affirming and empowering. Wisdom was gleaned more from the questions and issues raised rather than the answers given. There seemed to be no “one size fits all” answer. What a blessing it is to be among people who know first hand that life takes on new meaning when we can bring positive energy to the experiences of the past so they can become the fertilizer for new pathways of growth toward the future. April always brings special rites of passage and treasured annual traditions for Boston Higashi. Our Formal Dance, Graduation and Emergence Brunch are always poignant times of great reflection and joyous celebration. These events make us take time from our busy schedules to pause and ponder how swiftly time passes. We are ever mindful of the safety net of support that we have woven around our kids and ourselves through our common bonds of our many shared experiences along the autism journey.
In mid March, the Arnheim Gallery at Massachusetts College of Art hosted an exhibit of all our students’ artwork. It was a stunning display of both the process and products of creativity and talent. Our student visitors and their families and friends got to experience the thrill of being at a gallery reception viewing their very own artwork. The Jazz Band returned to Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge in early May for another stellar performance. Our talented musicians took to the stage with poise, perfect timing and tempo. Each member played well and looked so comfortable and at ease performing their ensemble and solo parts to the large and appreciative audience. The Annual Boston Higashi School Road Race raised everyone up to new heights. Our students ran with enthusiasm and were cheered to personal victories by friends and family. The day culminated with outstanding staff performances that rivaled Carnegie Hall and Broadway. Everyone is in full bloom and ready to keep growing and learning with purpose and pride as we approach the finish line of the 2013-14 school year.
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.
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The International Program for Individuals with Autism since 1987 800 North Main Street, Randolph, MA 02368 781-961-0800 www.bostonhigashi.org