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SAU 53 News and Reviews
practices to meet the diverse needs of all students
June 2012 Volume 3, Issue 3
Scoop of Events
Responsive Classroom Sampler
8/23, 8:30, Epsom Public Library
CPI Refresher Training
8/16 & 8/22, 8:30 at Hill contact
[email protected] to register
CPI Initial Training 8/ 20& 8/ 21
8:30 Hill School contact above
BEST Behavior Task Force
10/22, 8:30 at SAU
NAMI Child and Adolescent
Serious Behavior Challenges
10/29 , 3:30-7 at ECS
Pool of Resources
Resource Center at PA
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi
Picoult
Reading with TLC, Lively
Letters Starter Kit and
Sight Words You Can See.
Handwriting without Tears
Wooden Puzzle Kit
MATMAN Shape Book /CD
Exchange
www.kidshealth.org
For kids and teens with info,
activities, movies, quizzes,
safety tips , recipes, and
fitness.
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I really had fun with the Zentangle workshop. It was a nice change to do something completely relaxing.
The PA English department had a blast talking about The Wasteland with Mike Reardon.
True Color workshop was well organized, interesting, and clearly presented. The concept behind this
study will help with differentiating instruction.
I saw the film on Finland, I like what I saw and heard. The pace sounds so relaxed and children are
allowed to grow in their early childhood years.
I thought it was a great day. There was a lot of useful sharing in a relaxing atmosphere. I especially
enjoyed the lunch!
Norma Bailey, PA shares
autism resources
http:www.mypokecard.co
m/en/ make your own,
very realistic, Pokemon
and Powercards.
http://www.do2learn.com/
games/facialexpressions/
index.htm animated faces,
you can manipulate, emotion and feeling games
Science Fair is Back!
Rena Caron, PA science teacher, coordinated with towns who brought 15 of their 7th and 8th grade winners, to PA to
compete against each other on April 9th. Using a rubric, staff along with high school students judged the projects. Awards
were given out at the end of the night.
Justin Marsh and Deb Coburn, TRS science teachers, came up with a plan for all students to participate in the Science
Fair. They set aside every Friday and devoted it to science fair. Students had weekly assignments to turn in. First their
topic was submitted, next the question, the following week the research, and so on with the experiment performed over
March vacation. Feedback was given after each assignment. Alternative ideas such as research papers were also given
along with packets of experiments students could do on their own. Materials were provided as needed. “I believe we need to set the bar high
for all students, even ones who have learning disabilities. The more we show them they can do it, they will rise to those expectations. The
biggest problem with the science fair is not the students’ ability, but the fact they have to do a majority of the work on their own at home.
Many students who are very successful have the home life that helps them with item purchase, encouragement, or hands-on help.”
Although students at ARD do not participate in the science fair, 8th grade students participate in a Celebration of Learning Fair held in
June. They choose from three project types: COLF (research based on any topic), Science Fair (experimental design on a science topic of
their choice), and Invention Convention (any choice). All project work is broken up with a series of dates for each of 4 main parts. All students work off the same rubrics. “In short, all of my students receive accommodations as needed. Only the science fair option is required to
be “science related”. These student projects are about them, what they are passionate about, and what they want to share with the community
and parents. They use any/all tools available for class work and labs: headphones or auditory read aloud for textbook, extra time as needed,
written assignments by hand or computer.” says David Pabst, ARD Science teacher.
Gizmos
As the science enrichment teacher for third and fourth grades at Pembroke
Hill school, I use Gizmos to extend and reinforce concepts following hands on
inquiry experiments with the students,” says Diane Bourke.
GIZMOS is an online simulation program purchased by the IT Dept. that
offers students interactive science and math activities. Teachers have their own GIZMOS account that they share with their students. The
program seemed to help the students to better understand science content and while in the computer lab, many students were very engaged in
learning. At www.explorelearning.com there are guided instructions to use the program and search for age appropriate Gizmos.
For the Pembroke Science Enrichment program, Diane, the science enrichment teacher integrated GIZMOS activities into 3rd and 4th
grade science inquiry activities. These included energy pathways on earth, magnetism, electricity, forces and motion. She offered weekly
experimental and inquiry lessons for K-4 Pembroke students from October, 2011 through May 2012. The students looked forward to their
weekly hour with the science teacher and very positive feedback was given by the classroom teachers and parents. The science enrichment
program gave the 4th grade students an opportunity to be better prepared to take the Science NECAPS in May. Students received a Certificate of Completion for their hard work. Many students asked for the Science program to be offered next year!
“The students love the graphics and simulation of scientific experiments of GIZMOS. They are able to manipulate variables and test theories. My 4th graders have made electrical circuits, followed energy paths, and tested the amount of force needed to move objects. GIZMOS is
an exciting program,” says Kim Pratt, Hill School.
“Using the entire GIZMO package for middle school is key. The labs are complex and thought provoking. Students dive right in because
the GIZMO keeps them engaged”, says David Pabst, ARD
Linda Elliot’s 7th graders at ECS wanted to find out how the body works so they used the GIZMO to explore the circulatory system using
an simulated lab seeing the heart beating and watching blood work its way through the body. Students could use a syringe to take blood
samples, a microscope to view the blood sample, and even take a snapshot of the experiment to include in a report. When Linda did a Density
Unit, it was easy to do the science experiment without having to have all the materials. Students took scales and cylinders off the computer
shelf and used them to see how much water was displaced. “ Students are absorbed in the exploratory learning activities and can work independently. Vocabulary is also reinforced.” A student shared, “I like the GIZMO better than the textbook and worksheets because it is easier
to understand. You don’t have to write, you just watch, try things, and then take a quiz, and redo if you don’t pass. It is also easier when we
work with a buddy.
Ken Baxter, ECS, modeled the use of GIZMOS lessons during math. He did a Distance, Time, and Graphing Unit. To
introduce the program, Baxter helped students become familiar with the activity sheets. Students are able to send questions to the teacher via a folder. He rotates his math groups on the computers while he works with other students. He
finds it motivational for students. Even special education students can use the program if someone reads to them. Favorite activities for one student were “No Alien Left Behind”, “Critter Count”, and “Chocomatic” which are used to review
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multiplication using models, arrays, and area. Another SAU math teacher used the Function TableLearning
machines to
teach
Ken Baxter working
Connection
with student on math function rules and algebraic expressions. The students worked with Gizmos for function tables and rules and used their
information for their digital portfolios. The students loved it!!
Pembroke Hill /Village Health Fair
The Village school Gym was filled with 30 booths at the Health Fair which included interactive displays covering a variety of health related topics. Jean Picard and Kathy Mayer, the school nurses, organized the event for its second year. Some of the booths included healthy snacks table, hip hop dance, karate, germ safety, and health related facts.
One booth that caught particular interest was on Disability Awareness. OTS Marcia
Wurster, Tara Brochu, and Lori Lacasse helped students experience activities simulating
a physical or vision impairment. Students used tunnel vision and other glasses along with braille to experience a
vision impairment. To experience motor difficulties, students used gloves to button shirts, open and close plastic
baggies, stack blocks, and insert pegs into a pegboard. With ½ tennis balls strapped to their feet, children understood what it was like to have difficulty with balance. Katie Keck & Shannon Hurley, SLPS ran a hearing safety
booth.
Lights, Camera, Action!!
SAU 53 recognizes the value and importance in providing drama experiences for all children.
DCS
Alice in Wonderland was presented at Deerfield Community School on April 13 th under the directorship of Holly Brown and Assistant,
Keith Yergeau. Grade 6-8th graders tried out for parts and students with special needs were thrilled to get the characters of Mad Hatter,
Louis Carroll, Gardener, and Pigeon. When asked if accommodations needed to be made, Holly reported that they didn’t need any extra
help. Although some had smaller parts they also had additional jobs to help with curtains, scenery, and props to increase their involvement throughout the play.
AES/ARD
“Eeks!! Do I have to paint, listen to loud music, talk with other people, and really get on a stage?” What may seem easy to some is a
nightmare to students with autism and other disabilities. However, typical peer role models made a difference in helping these students
overcome tremendous anxiety and accept new challenges.
This was the first year an integrated play production was initiated in Allenstown as students from AES and ARD partnered to produce a play that involved all students and abilities. These students with varying learning differences experienced exposure to many
challenging situations during practices and the production of the play, George and Justin in the Dark that was shown to Grades 2, 3,
and parents on April 2. They braved the environmental challenges of loud music, the social and communicative challenges while working with peers, and sensory challenges as they prepared for their first play. Collaboration from the Drama Club, Art Club, staff , and
students from two schools was needed to present the play.
Lisa Rounds, autism teacher at AES attended the SAU 53 Autism Course in the fall and saw the documentary, Miracle Project,
which sparked interest in the idea of an integrated play with her students and typical peers to increase socialization. Principal, Lynn
Allen wholeheartedly approved the project, obtained funding, and expanded the idea by involving ARD’s Art Club and Drama Club.
During enrichment on Tues. and Thurs. AES and ARD came together. Art teacher, Tammy Colby had her typical students read the
play, do interviews regarding costumes, scenery, and props needed, and paint scenery with students of varying differences. Music
teacher, Pam Stohrer, wrote the lyrics for the songs that had rap. Parents and other staff were actively involved to help prepare for the
finale. A student from Mrs. Obrien’s Dance Studio helped with dance choreography. Lisa Rounds closed by saying that the play was a
huge success as her students rose to the occasion overcoming fears and anxiety with the encouragement of all involved.
OTHER SPRING PLAYS held in district were ECS Drama Club’s production of a funny mystery, Law & Order: Nursery Rhyme
Unit. PA players under director, Peter Mehegan shined on the set of Thornton Wilder’s play “Our Town”. A spectacular presentation of
the Wizard of Oz by the Chichester Theatre group was led by Kate Mara and Bea Douglas. Not only was the show for the school but
the CCS drama group presented several songs at a game held at the Fisher Cat Stadium in Manchester. Three Rivers School performances of “Beauty and the Beast” were sold out. A performance of the “Aristocats” was shown to Village/Hill students and parents.
“Drama gives children the opportunity to have a voice, to forget their own shyness, and enjoy the spotlight. Watching others perform
often inspires future performers also.” shared Mona Sandberg.
Owen in Beauty and
the Beast at TRS
For the past four years, I have had the pleasure of assisting Owen Sansoucie with his participation in the Three Rivers
School Drama Club. This has been an excellent venue for Owen to build social skills with his peers. The program runs
approximately three months, with rehearsals after school several times a week and a three-night performance at the
end. This has proven to be a great opportunity for Owen to learn new skills like memorizing lines, learning dance
steps, keeping his props and costume organized, and remembering when to go on stage and where to stand. Most
importantly though is that Owen is able to socialize with his peers outside of the school setting and build friendships
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with his cast mates.
Owen looks forward to Drama Club every year. When asked what Owen liked best about Drama Club he responded,
“ I like to sing and dance on the stage” and “I do my best.” Further questioning elicited the following responses, “I like
to hang out and talk with my friends” and “ my best friends are there.” Jen Plourde, TRS
Learning Circle Helpline
Many thanks to the educational friends who presented on SAU DAY
Jo Sanborn, Deb Campelia, Jasmine Yelle, Tara Beuchemin, Tony Cipriano,
Karen Guercia, Ginna Schonwald, Brian Gridley,Sue Hutchinson, Deb
Boisvert, Megan Tuttle, Tara Brochu, Vicki Therrien, Tammy Colby, Judith
Howe, Holly Brown, Dan Morris, Bridget Lee, John Fladd, Ayanna Gallant,
Liz McGovern,Teresa Starkey, Judith Williams, Peter Mehegan, Crystal
Tilton, Kimm Pratt, Theresa Schneiderheinze, Helene Bickford, Sherri Stanley, Liz Fortier, Mike Reardon, Kiera Peasley, Gary Wright, Corinne Kennett,
Ken Floutier, Dani Cloutier, and Karen Johnson
The
ZZuzz
THE BUZZ
Kasey Filion of Allenstown School District was recently honored as the NH
School Psychologist of the year. A celebration was held in her honor on May
3rd .“Kasey is a very approachable person whose personality has helped her
create high levels of engagement and
trust with students, parents, and colleagues. She also implements a summer
program, Challenge by Choice, for students with emotional behavior challenges.”
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Maria Knee and Shannon Doherty joined 5000 walkers for
NSTAR’S Walk for Children Hospital in Boston on June
10th. They had used the hospital’s website resources to
benefit their student with Down’s syndrome and wanted to
show their appreciation. Register for this free site.
http://dsfoc.org/learning_program.htm
Hoops on Wheels a Success
The wheel chair basketball
tournament was successful for
Bridge Builder team under cocaptains Karen Johnson and
Ken Fuller. The team brought
their A game and had fun as
they helped Granite State Independent Living Foundation
pass their goal and raise over $13,800. The team is already gearing up for next year.
Allenstown School District
was the recipient of the “First Lady Reads.”
This honor included a visit from New Hampshire’s
First Lady, Dr. Lynch, and 650 free Scholastic books
for a summer reading initiative.
PACE Academy Celebrates as
First Graduation is Held
On June 15th, PACE Career Academy held
their first graduation in Allenstown, NH.
After three years of planning, an alternative
public charter school for Pembroke area students grades 9-12, named PACE Career Academy, was approved by
the NH Board of Education. PACE---an acronym for Pembroke, Allenstown, Chichester and Epsom---opened last fall. PACE also stands
for Personal, Academic and Career Experience. The classes are selfpaced, using all available resources. Many students incorporate online
classes for their studies. Pat McLaughlin, a PA guidance counselor
who serves on the board of trustees for the charter school said there
were about 20 students attending the school this year, and he hopes
that the number reaches 30 next year. “We had a pretty good first
year,” he said.
Clint Hanson and Roy Foss, community board of trustee members
deserve a lot of credit for getting PACE up and running. School Director, Edie Allyn, and her staff did a terrific job with creative, innovative and hard work. “Sometimes students need specialized attention to make it through a school day. With smaller class sizes, as well
as more hands-on activities, the PACE classroom is wonderful for
them,” said Mr. Reardon, Pembroke Academy Headmaster.
Any student can apply to this charter school, but Pembroke-district
area students receive priority for enrollment. PACE serves a population of students who find traditional high school like PA challenging.
PACE students attend classes for half the day and then participate in a
community-based internship. “This helps to put direction in their life
to continue with a career,” said Mr. Reardon. Before enrolling, students are tested on their interests and are then placed in classes and
internships that best meet their career needs, said Mr.Reardon.
PACE teachers, Sarah Bennett and Tish Stoutenburg, maintain a
large repertoire of classes. From Kid Lit to History of Hair, PACE
students are able to find a handle on the traditional content, but shape
it to their interests. Twenty students worked through 87 different classes throughout the school year, all supervised and coordinated by
Bennett and Stoutenburg. While online classes are used for instructional purposes, teachers also use group and individual instructional
methods.
Students at PACE are required to participate in a Design Your Own
project each quarter. At the conclusion of the quarter, presentations,
including public speaking, are given to the public and graded. This is
only one way workplace skills, such as self-presentation, are incorporated into the curriculum. Students are able to select an area of interest
to them, such as cosmetics chemistry. Through the DYO process, the
student pends a minimum of 30 hours researching, theorizing, and
developing their projects. On the presentation night, students are required to show displays, engage in discussions, and are evaluated on
their content knowledge.
NECAP Celebration
ARD made AYP (adequate yearly
progress) in all areas and AES
made significant gains, including
reaching its index target growth!