Higashi Highlights Summer 2016

Higashi Higashi Highlights

Summer 2016

Challenge

Believe

Together

The world is our classroom!

From job sites to field trips, learning moves outdoors in the summer months, providing more opportunities for community learning - and fun! www.bostonhigashi.org • Helping children with autism exceed expectations since 1987 • (781) 961-0800

The Principal’s Perspective

A Message from th

I would like to thank everyone for joining take this opportunity to welcome all of ou

The last quarter of the 2015 -2016 school year provided many moments and events This is a special year as the Boston Higashi S to “Be Proud” and showcase our best selves as individuals and as a school. were able to haveWe passed quickly so please allow me, on appreciation to students, all staff, past and present, demonstrate who we are and how far we have come this year. Generating growth for School’s establishment, staff and families is hard work and takes sustained efforts and interdependence.

At Boston growth and succe part of this organization and it is a pleasu Higashi School, we take great pride in the work that we do together each and every day to have faithfully served the Boston Higashi S ensure that our students make progress whether it is measured by inches or miles, smiles or hasour worked shouts, grades or grit. Our theme “Be Proud” served us well and helpedOur usstaff attune focus,with great diligence many to perform in intention and attention keeping our vision on the mission of our schoolovercome throughout thechallenges year. their performance and look forward to th We are very proud of our campus buildings and grounds. There have been significant breaking the barriers of autism and achie investments to upgrade and maintain both exterior and interior spaces. Visitors repeatedly express make and benefactors, f tion tothat our we supporters a strong and lasting first impression. The Athletic Complex with its two pools, locker room facilities, bar and school snack and our mission. track has been a tremendous resource, and provides greater program offerings for our students and alumni alike.

The Celebration!

Please enjoy the 25th Annual Culinary Arts Kitchen is also another addition that has allowed us to expand our offerings to students and alumni. Our Sincerely, renovated classrooms with increased technology equipment are also notable. Our campus is a reflection of the pride of ownership we hold collectively and the respect we have for our students.

Annual Celebration was once again a time of miracles with tears of joy and gratitude shed freely. All of our students gave performances from their heart and soul. The program itself was richly crafted and contained elements of ancient truths and modern day symbolism expressed through songs and movements. The audience of over a thousand people embraced our teachers and students by standing and applauding, cheering loudly and repeatedly.

Family Day at the Residence brought out the fun in student, family and staff. It was non-stop with It is myaction joy to welcome you to the 2012 A gether.

It is theand 25th Annual Celebration activities for young and old. Hayrides and horse rides, games, a bowling tournament, car washes, water play for this school year is CELEBRATE. We hav swimming worked up everyone’s appetite for barbecue lunches and extra treats. legacy of our founder, Dr. Kitahara, and th Two vacations camps, Stars and Stripes in July and the Summer Sizzler in August gave our students fieldtrips, to the enduring and sustaining friendship outings, music and special presentations here on campus. The pools were never idle. They were a great wayour to alumni beat and their familie acknowledge We cherish our students, families and frie that summer heat.

Bon Dance is the traditional culminating event of the year. Our students and families are proud to wear Our performance today will touch your h yukatas and pay homage to our Japanese roots, dancing around the yagura, participating in the mikoshi parade, and age, and talents. You will not only be en proudly displaying artifacts of their respective division’s learning over the past year while chanting “Washoi.” motto in action.The We challenge our stude international food booths please everyone’s palate. potential and know when we all work tog Thank you for being with us today. On wi I remain shamelessly proud to be the principal of Boston Higashi School.

It is a very unique and special place where actions speak louder than words and where teaching and learning are a Best Regards, work of heart and mind each and every day.

A Message from th

Deborah Donovan Principal

UPCOMING EVENTS SEPT 28 OCT 15 OCT 15

PARENTS NIGHT 6:30 - 8:00pm @ Higashi

SPORTS DAY

9:50am - 2:00pm Higashi Back Field

EMERGENCE PROGRAM GOLF TOURNAMENT 9:00am - 2:00pm Golf Learning Ctr of NE, Norton

SEPT 6 | First Day of 2016 - 17 School Year

Parent Breakfast: 8:30am - 9:45am; Parent Collaboration Meeting:

10:30am-12pm. Guest Speaker: author Susan Senator

OCT 7 | Open House / Guided Tour

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

OCT 26 | Halloween Party (Res only) / Dance (Public)

Party: 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm, Dance: 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm OCT 28 | Halloween Costume Party (School) 1:30 pm - 3:00 pm For the latest news and events, visit our website at www.bostonhigashi.org

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Class Notes HISTORY COMES ALIVE The Emergence Program focused on outdoor learning this summer.

They explored the beauty and rich history of Boston by taking a Duck Boat Tour, which was a big hit!

Some students even got a chance to “drive” the tour boat in the harbor.

Look out, Boston, here we come!

OUTDOOR LEARNING The Elementary Division brought their lessons outside this summer!

They enjoyed going on a field trip to fly kites which students made during art lessons. They also went to the ice cream shop and got the opportunity to practice both their community and math skills by ordering the flavor of their choice and paying the cashier themselves! A delicious lesson!

WHERE IN THE WORLD? Middle School really enjoyed traveling around the world last semester. They learned about all different countries and then got to share that knowledge with the whole division. There was even food from each country to share with the group! In keeping with the worldly theme, they are now learning all about the Olympics and can’t wait to not only root for the USA, but for their new favorite country as well!

CAMPING, COOKING, CLIMBING! The High School Division has been learning about camping and cooking this summer. Students are learning how to build a campsite and prepare a bagged lunch to eat at their campsite.

They have also been learning about cooking shishkabobs, including putting together their grocery list and going to the store to buy the ingredients for the meal. Finally, each class has had an opportunity to go to a local indoor rock climbing center. The students all seem to enjoy it and try their hardest.

SCIENCE FUN FOR EVERYONE Happy summer from the Junior High School Division! This summer we have been busy learning about the upcoming Olympics and its various events and are excited about cheering on our favorite athletes!

(USA! USA!) In science, we have been studying force and motion.

We’ve done a number of fun, handson

experiments

demonstrating

gravity, water pressure and air pressure. How far will the balloon propel itself? Let’s find out!

Residential Reflections BOWLING FUN IN EMERGENCE

GRATEFUL GRILLMASTERS!

Lots of practice and great team work lead to a great bowling tournament for the Emergence Division’s Family Day activity.

The day began at Westgate Lanes in Brockton, and ended with a cookout back at Higashi! Winning 1st place was apartment three, and the MVP award went to Ryan Haite. Our most improved players were Henny and Dale. Congratulations to all the EP program students for a fun event and a job well done, and to the staff who make all things possible. Can’t wait to see what next year’s tournament brings!

This summer, students at the Residence have been grilling outside for a seasonal twist on their culinary skill development. During the fall and winter, regular cooking lessons take place in the newly remodeled Culinary Arts’ room. However, thanks to the benevolence of Darcy Mallowes and her family (mother of Chris in HS-B), our students have expanded their cooking horizons, creating fun and healthy outdoor fare this summer. We are so grateful for the kind donation, and it’s easy to see, our students are beyond excited to become “grill masters.” Thank You!

Division Spotlight: Junior High Planes, Trains and Adventure! A Marvelous Summer Experience for JH – Residence

Junior High School students at the Residence have had the opportunity to venture off the Higashi campus and experience new sights in our community. They have visited an airport where they brought fun to new heights! The students were given the opportunity to try out their wings being both ‘pilots’ and ‘passengers’ on light aircrafts. The pilots and other crewmembers were highly impressed by our students and thankful to our staff for the wonderful job that they do.

The excitement did not stop there! The JH students and staff took a high-speed journey, taking passage on the MBTA trains. The students and staff were all smiles as they navigated the rails from the Braintree station to JFK, buying their tickets, and watching the passing trains with delight as they waited for the correct train for their journey.

But there can’t be adventure without good food! They have enjoyed doing barbeques here on campus throughout the summer days. With just a few weeks remaining of summer fun, we are now looking forward to the thrills of fall fun!

FAMILY DAY MEMORIES Our Family Day 2016 began with a cookout, and it was a sizzling hot day! We all sat in the shade of a tree and enjoyed eating lunch with family members. All students participated in fun summer activities, carefully planned by our staff, including a horse ride, hay ride, swimming, bingo, car wash and music concert. We, the Higashi Staff, were delighted to see that our students, their families and friends, enjoyed all there was to offer, and displayed broad smiles throughout the day! Our day ended with hand print art project as well as everone’s favorite, an ice cream sundae bar, to cool our day down. Last but not least, thank you to AiAi, Caroline, Henry, John, Kerry and Gethee Family for your contined support to make Family Day such a success.

Greetings from the Parent Association! ~ How quickly fly the years!

Parent Perspectives

On Sunday, June 26th, we celebrated the 29th Annual Celebration in Wrentham, MA. The performances by the students were astounding, and every year we are surprised by something new! I am always in awe of the staff for their dedication to our children, and the long hours and hard work it takes to make this event come together so perfectly. The accomplishments on that stage remind us all that life is full of wonderful possibilities!

It has been an amazing journey to work with the 2015-2016 Parent Association Board. A big shout out for your dedication and hard work: First Vice President Kathy Sidlauskas, Second Vice President John Sidlauskas, Treasurer Cheryl Begnal, Assistant Treasurer Mark Hausser, Recording Secretary Julie Coppenrath, Corresponding Secretary Jill Gichuhi. A heartfelt “thank you” to Maryellen Paradise for the continued support given to the Parent Association throughout the year.

“Pride” was our theme, and we sure had many moments to be proud of this past year! I would like to thank Principal Deb Donovan for being an incredible mentor and friend; always available to the parents, always working for our children.

This school year concluded at the Bon Dance Festival on August 14th and a new BHSPA board was elected for the 2016-2017 school year. Please welcome our new board: President- Julie Coppenrath, First Vice President-Kathy Sidlauskas, Second Vice President- Stephen & Lisa Harris, Recording Secretary-Jill Gichuhi, Corresponding Secretary- Christine Walker, Treasurer- Mark Hausser, Assistant Treasurer- Whitney Whinnery.

I am humbled and proud to have served on the Parent Association for the past 16 years and it has truly been a privilege to represent the families of Boston Higashi School. There have been so many moments and numerous blessings over the years that have truly touched my life and will be with me for a lifetime. We have a school like no other; our children, families, and the incredible staff is what makes the Boston Higashi School shine.

As always do not hesitate to contact me with questions or suggestions by phone 508-813-0587 or email, lisa_ burgess@comcast.net.

Lisa Burgess, Boston Higashi Parent Association Outgoing President (& Mother of Dakota in EP)

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Announcing our 2016 Higashi Gala:

“Meeting the Challenge”

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As we prepare for our 2nd Annual Gala and the completion of 29 remarkable years serving children and young adults with autism, it’s a great time to give pause and thoughtfully reflect upon the meaning of our work.

At the Boston Higashi School “Meeting the Challenge” is not just a motto or a slogan that we casually toss around, it’s a way of life, and it’s how we live each and every day - its words are embedded in our mission.

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Daily Life Therapy Sponsor - $25,000 20 tickets (2 tables with option of gifting 1 table to BHS staff), name and logo on screen at the event, in program book, on the website, in the newsletter and membership to the Kitahara Society Aquatics Sponsor - $10,000 20 tickets (2 tables with option of gifting 1 table to BHS staff), name and logo on screen at the event, in program book, on the website, in the newsletter and membership to the Kitahara Society Culinary Sponsor - $5,000 10 tickets (1 table) name and logo on screen at the event, in program book, on the website, in the newsletter and membership to the President’s Circle

Whether it’s playing the trumpet, learning to tie your shoes, riding a unicycle, getting a job, completing a 5K Road Race, learning to swim, or creating a one-of-a-kind piece of art, our belief in the ability and potential of each student has no boundaries.

We also believe in you! For it is your support, your encouragement and most importantly, your faith in our work and our commitment to Daily Life Therapy, that allows us to successfully meet the daily challenges of serving students and young adults with autism.

Thank you for partnering with us on this wonderful journey and we ask that you please join us for an exciting evening of celebration and cheer.

Sponsorship Opportunities Symphony Sponsor - $2,500 6 tickets, listing on screen at the event, in program book, on the website and in the newsletter Visual Arts Sponsor - $1,000 4 tickets and listing on screen and in the program book Fitness Sponsor - $500 2 tickets and listing on screen and in the program book Individual Tickets - $150 each

7 Good Friends & Neighbors

Development News

Liberty Bay Credit Union It’s been a little less than a year since we were introduced to our friends and partners at Liberty Bay Credit Union, however in just a small period of time, the Liberty Bay Team has presented to and educated our staff towards making some very positive and life altering financial decisions. Their ongoing presence, positive demeanor and willingness to go that extra mile has produced a very powerful partnership.

“Liberty Bay Credit Union is honored to be partnering with The Boston Higashi School. At the top of a long list of compelling partnership dynamics is the opportunity to interact with the schools’ inspiring teachers and employees, all of whom bring incredible energy and spirit to the important mission of the school. What they do for their students is a testament to education, empowerment and love. We at Liberty Bay are grateful for the association.”

Peter Dennis Sr. Vice President, Business Development

Burke Distributing Corporation Brothers Bill and Tim along with Cousin Austin are pretty knowledgeable when it comes to moving around millions of cases of beer, water and soft drinks from their Randolph based Distribution Plant, but who knew how insightful they would be when it came to the technology needs of our students. After a recent tour of Boston Higashi School and a demonstration of our new first floor JTouch Interactive White Boards the trio returned to their headquarters to contemplate how they might be of help. A few weeks later, Austin called with the amazing news that their company would fund 8 new JTouch Boards for our second floor classrooms. Our thanks goes out to the Burke Distributing Company their generosity and for being such great neighbors.

Boston Bruins Foundation For the second year in a row we received a very generous grant from our friends at the Boston Bruins Foundation. Their most recent grant to support JTouch Boards allows us to install boards in all the Junior High and High School Classrooms. The Bruins stay involved throughout the year, supporting our Road Race and Gala. Go B’s!

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Campus Happenings Stay an active part of the Higashi Community, and never miss an alumni event!

CAEP Summer a Success The Continuing Adult Education Program committee is excited to provide an update about our growing program! This summer, we had our third session, which was attended by thirty-three of our amazing alumni and their families, group home staff, and other caretakers. During this special two-day, complimentary session, participants enjoyed classes in cooking, music/jazz band, and swimming. They even had a cookout and made their own burgers on the grill! The session culminated with a splash at a pool party and musical performances!

The Continuing Adult Education Program (CAEP) committee is so thankful for the outpouring of support that we have received from the BHS community during our first year in operation. We knew there was a huge need for quality adult service opportunities, but we never anticipated such an amazing turn out! The enthusiasm shared by BHS staff, alumni, parents/guardians, and other family members is so impressive. Many thanks to the parents and caretakers who have sent their positive feedback. We look forward to watching this program continue to grow.

Sign up for our email list by clicking this icon on the alumni page on the BHS website.

See you on campus!

Keep an eye on www.bostonhigashi.org/alumni to reserve your spot in the next session!

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Just a Summer Fling 3

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(Right) Repairing divots at Boston Golf Club

Exciting Additions in Employment Ed! Boston Higashi School’s Employment Education program has been growing, creating new partnerships and opportunities for our hard working High School and Emergence students.

In May, Boston Golf Club (Hingham, MA) became one of our job sites, and has quickly become a favorite.

Who wouldn’t want to spend their days on the golf course?

Students have been fixing divots and are expected to maintain bunkers to keep the course in tip-top shape.

In June we established a partnership with VERC Enterprises, Inc. Working at the Gulf station in Stoughton, MA, and the Mobil station in Randolph, MA, our students are learning facility maintenance and beverage inventory, as well as traffic safety awareness while on site.

The latest addition is Brookwood Community Farm, which is an 8-acre working farm and education center located in Milton and Canton, MA. Since July, our students have expanded the skills they have gained while working at our on-campus lavender hill, and will develop the necessary vocational skills in agriculture by interacting with the farm staff at this job site. We will also collaborate with Brookwood Community Farm for assistance developing our new oncampus greenhouse. Stay tuned!

(Above) Stocking drinks at the Mobil station; (Right) Weeding at Brookwood

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To see more event photos, “Like” us on Facebook!

Photos 1-4: Annual Celebration; photos 5-6: Alumni Brunch; photo 7-9: Family Day; photos 11-12: Sibling Day; photo 13: CAEP; photo 14: rock climbing lessons; photo 15: EP Bike Race; photos 16-18: Bon Dance Festival

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Community Connections We were delighted that Mrs. Tomoko Himeno, wife of the former Consul General of Japan, Tsutomu (Tom) Himeno, visited Higashi on June 22nd to watch our Open Door Annual Celebration rehearsal.

She seemed moved by the performances, and said afterward that she was very impressed by both students and staff.

We were honored to welcome Norfolk County Sheriff Michael G. Bellotti, and Christopher Bell, Director of Government Affairs, for a school tour, and a sneak peek at the Annual Celebration performances during our rehearsal for parents on June 22nd. Sheriff Bellotti also met with Dr. John Maina, who explained our program in detail, and gave a campus tour.

Summer Concert Series: Our Higashi Jazz Band Goes “On Tour” Our Higashi Jazz Band has had a summer full of gigs, bookended by performances at Annual Celebration and Bon Dance.

They performed at Ryles Jazz Club in Cambridge on July 22nd as part of Kulture City’s 3rd Annual Toys AUcross America fundraiser. That Saturday, July 23rd, they played during the pre-game show at Gilette Stadium before the New England Revolution played the Chicago Fire. The band, along with family, friends, and some Higashi staff, stayed to watch the game, and cheer the Revolution on to a 1-0 victory. The “Summer Concert Series” was capped off by their performance at Laura’s Center for the Arts, part of the Emilson YMCA, in Hanover, MA on Thursday the 28th. The intimate space felt like a true jazz venue with it’s theatrical lighting and stage’s proximity to the crowd. The band played an hour set, and the songs they performed were requested by the band members on the fly, at the urging of Band Director Kaname Ueno. To hear such a strong and impromptu set list truly demonstrated the talent of the Higashi musicians, much to the delight of all who attended. We can’t wait to see what exciting opportunities the fall will bring!

(Left and below) Femi and Daigo pose for photos with students and staff A big “Thank You” to some special volunteers who made this summer extra fun! Huy and Nam, brothers of student Thao Nhi, spent two weeks helping out with whatever was needed around campus. John and Joseph, sons of JH Teacher Daniel, spent the last week and a half of their summer break helping our teachers prepare materials for the new school year. Thanks, gentlemen!

(Left and below) Our afternoon was filled with several heated soccer games and time for autographs!

Photos: (far left) Catching a quick bite to eat before performing at Ryles; (left) The intimate atmosphere at Laura’s Center for the Arts enhanced the “jazzy” feel, and made for one of the strongest performances by the band in recent years; (top) Capturing the excitement as true soccer fans at the NE Revolution game following the pre-show performance.

The students and staff of the Boston Higashi School would like to extend a big thank you to Matt Miller, Multicultural Marketing Coordinator for the New England Revolution for bringing fan favorites Daigo Kobayashi and Femi HollingerJanzen to our school, along with the Revs Mascot and Street Team for a fun-filled afternoon of soccer, photos and autographs. The excitement in the air was electric, as several division soccer matches, “coached” by Femi and Daigo, got competitive, and showed off our true Higashi spirit. Afterward, the soccer idols took time out for photos and to meet our students and staff. It was such a fun afternoon! Go Revs!

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BOSTON HIGASHI SCHOOL 800 North Main Street Randolph, MA 02368 (781) 961-0800 www.bostonhigashi.org

NEW

&

NOTABLE

PG 6

“MEETING THE CHALLENGE” 2016 HIGASHI GALA

PG 7

DEVELOPMENT NEWS: GROWING FRIENDSHIPS

PGS 8-9

For the latest news and events, visit our website at www.bostonhigashi.org, or subscribe to our online calendar

IN THIS ISSUE PG 2 | Principal’s Perspective

FUN IN THE SUMMER SUN

PGS 3-4 | Class Notes, Residential Reflections PG 5 | Parent Association PGS 10 - 11 | Community Connections