Blog #102~Special Needs Summer School~ESY
During the summer months, a child who has special needs may qualify for ESY (which stands for “Extended School Year”). ESY is usually a half day program which allows someone like Nick who has Down syndrome and autism to continue working on IEP goals. This benefits the student with special needs by keeping the momentum and daily structure which is so vital.
Nick’s teacher, Andrea Lawler put together a montage of his summer school program. Flipping through the pages of this book made me smile. It also put a lens on all the cool things Nick gets to do in the ESY program. Take a look……….
Nick’s ESY Yearbook 2014 at Neuqua Valley High School:
Part of our morning routine was our “Morning Meeting.” Here Nick is letting us know that he is happy, however, he usually loved to be a goof and always point to sad! 🙂
Nick’s version of yoga! Everyday we did a yoga routine with the “Let’s Get Ready to Learn” program.
Who doesn’t love fireworks! Celebrating the upcoming 4th of July with a little fireworks show!
Nick thinks this is way cool 🙂
Mid-rock, one of Nick’s favorite dance moves. Who doesn’t love a dance party every now and then!?!
Enjoying his snack time.
Once a week we would go to the computer lab.
Bingo game with some augmentative-communication during speech group!
Being silly while working in the production room sorting sugar packets.
The students went to the production room on Mondays! No fire alarms in the room though. 🙂
Watching and listening to our book during reading group. This was Nick’s favorite spot to stand in during group time. He’s doing “elbow” which is his version of a high five.
Placing his order during one of our weekly community trips. This trip was to Burger King.
Who doesn’t love Burger King breakfast!?!
This smile says it all!
I hope you enjoyed a glimpse into Nick’s world at ESY. A BIG thank you to Nick’s teacher, Andrea Lawler for putting together this awesome summer school yearbook. In addition, I want to thank all the teachers and aides for taking the time out of your summer break to continue to teach Nick. This allowed me to continue going to work without having to hire respite care. It also kept me from going bonkers with him home all day. That’s what is in my noggin this week.
~Teresa 🙂
Down Syndrome with a Slice of Autism 
Teresa, Very interesting post. Sounds like a great program. BTW I will be in Frankfort on Sept 2, late afternoon and Sept 3, leaving early Sept 4. Maybe we could visit, we missed you in June. Joleene
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Thanks it is a great program. Looking forward to seeing you next week for lunch. 🙂 Yay!