higashi highlights - fall 2014 issue

!

! The International Program for Individuals with Autism since 1987

800 North Main Street, Randolph, MA 02368 781-961-0800 www.bostonhigashi.org

Higashi Highlights

Challenge Believe Together

Accredited by The National Commission for the Accreditation of Special Education Services The Boston Higashi School is affiliated with Lesley University.

Fall 2014

!

1

“When we give cheerfully and

accept gratefully, everyone is

blessed”

We have completed the first trimester of the 2014 – 2015 school year with great enthusiasm and gratitude for the abundance and warmth strong partnerships with families, friends, school districts, supporters and sustainers bring to our students and our staff each and every day. Our theme for this school year is “Together Everyone

Achieves More.” We have had many opportunities recently to see this in action beyond our classrooms. Alumni parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Sespico, opened the new school year sharing their journey and reflections about raising their daughter Nicol. Their long and deep association with Higashi both in Tokyo and in the US mesmerized the audience. It was so clear that Daily Life Therapy® is unique and most effective and joyous when parents and teachers collaborate and trust each other. We were delighted to host a reception for the Sapporo Jazz Band. They were brought to us through the efforts of Tiger Okoshi and Mr. Ueno. They gave a stellar performance and were gracious guests, sharing their personal stories about the tsunami and earthquake in Japan as well as their musical talents. Ms. Robyn Stewart returned to give two presentations to staff and others on October 2nd. She was informative and gave her own perceptions and perspectives

2

on navigating the world as a person with autism and related disabilities. I was honored to represent our school at the White House Research Forum on Health Improved Health and Fitness for Americans with Disabilities on October 6th and 7th. It was a very enlightening and inspirational event. I had the opportunity to boast about both our Boston and Tokyo Schools and our efforts to ensure health and wellness for our students with autism. I met the Executive Director of the Presidents Council on Physical Fitness. Ms. Shellie Pfohl. I also spent time with the Presidential Distinguished Award winner, the Honorable Dr. Margaret Giannini, Past Director of the Office on Disability and founder of the program, “I Can Do It, You Can Do It” and several of her board members. There was great interest in our school and we look forward to hosting them on our campus later in November. Three very successful Parent Collaboration / Training sessions have been held to date, and we have enjoyed strong parent attendance at all of them. These groups serve as points of contact, reference, information and support for one and all. It is very uplifting to hear how Higashi has helped enrich the lives of our students and their families and hear our staff is held in such high regard. On November 20th we were very proud to host the official opening reception of the pool and athletic complex. From the outside with the

3

bubble set up a student remarked that it looks like a giant igloo. There are no snow bricks inside but rather a tropical-like environment with two pools and running track. Watching our students use this facility brings tremendous joy to one and all. What was once a dream made with heart and hope has become a beacon of light and possibility. Special thanks go to CEO Michael Kelly for his tireless efforts with all phases of this project. We send our congratulations and best wishes to our mother school in Tokyo, the Musashino Higashi Gakuen on the happy occasion of their 50th Anniversary. They have always upheld a standard of excellence for us to emulate and aspire to achieve. Musashino and Boston Higashi Schools have fostered a culture of mutual respect and collaboration espousing all the elements of a winning team. It is said that winning teams

Trust each other

Respect each other

Understand each other

Enjoy each other.”

!

May this be the true spirit of the upcoming holidays. Whether they are celebrated near or far, east or west, in quiet solitude or with great fanfare, I wish you peace and joy that renews and refreshes us all.

!

Higashi Highlights Fall 2014 2

Elementary Highlights Ai Shiino, Elementary Master Teacher

1

Having a Ball This Fall! The Elementary Division got off to a great start. Each class has chosen a motto to motivate them for the year. The motto of Elementary A Class is “Step by Step, But Ever Forward.” A Class is the youngest, and their 1-step may be small but their progress is huge! Elementary B Class chose “Shine Your Way.” B Class is always marching energetically to shine their way toward success. Elementary C Class chose “Express Yourself.” When happy, C Class has a variety of ways to express

2

themselves such as singing, dancing, and clapping their hands. Elementary D Class chose “Every Day is a New Adventure.” They are not scared and they are not worried. D Class is so brave to keep challenging themselves during each new adventure! All of the students really enjoyed Sports Day. They all did very well throughout the day, not only when they were participating, but also when they were cheering others on. Many thanks to all of those who were able to attend and enjoy the day with us! Elementary Division was ready to participate in all October had to offer. In Language Arts we learned about ghosts and monsters, so we were especially excited to wrap up the month with two spooky events: the Costume Party, and our “Haunted Hallway Walk.” The first event was the Costume Party on Friday the 31st, one of the

3

sensational seasonal events at Boston Higashi School. There were many delightful and frightful family fun activities such as the trick-or-treat bag game and costume contest. Another event, new for our students this year, was the “Haunted Hallway Walk.” We decorated a dark basement hallway with a lot of spooky creatures, including ghosts, spiders and jack-o-lanterns students made during art classes. Everyone loved walking through the hallway “at their own risk” as spooky music played, and dry ice provided an eerie fog. We even had teachers in scary costumes hiding to scare the students (and even some teachers!). The students asked to go again and again. We can’t wait to see what the winter season brings in Elementary!

Elementary’s Haunted Hallway was a spooky hit with students

and staff alike!

!


High School Highlights Jen Tomase, High School Master Teacher

1

Coming Together As One In the few short months that the students in High School have been together, they have been working hard bonding with each other and with their teachers. That hard work paid off when they came together as one on Sports Day. The students practiced pulling the rope as a team during PE class in preparation for the Tug of War challenge. HS A Class became Tug of War champions in a close battle over HS B Class. Well done,

2

everyone! We have also been working hard in the classroom during Language Arts, learning about the different parts of the newspaper, and students will eventually write their own Higashi newspaper. Look out, Higashi Highlights! During math class we are working on money skills, which students were able to use when we took a trip to the store to buy pumpkins for Halloween. Everyone enjoyed carving those pumpkins, and they served as a spooky

3

decoration when the younger divisions visited our classrooms to Trick-or-Treat during the Costume Party on the 31st.

1

A Very Full Fall A hearty welcome back to school to everyone from the Junior High Division! We had a great time at Sports Day, competing with our friends and families, and having fun while everyone tried their best! The weather also did its part and made the day a wonderful celebration!

Junior High Highlights Chris Stanbrook, Junior High Master Teacher!

2

Inside the classrooms we are hard at work learning about biographies, reading about famous and important people like Christopher Columbus, Neil Armstrong, Babe Ruth and Franklin Roosevelt. With such varied biographies, we are having great discussions about the various lives and times of these historical figures.

3

In math, we are working on money skills, learning what bills we need to buy our favorite things! Next up is the Winter Music Festival, and it'll be here before you know it, so mark your calendars for Friday, December 19th @ 10:00am. The Junior High Division looks forward to seeing you there!

Middle School Highlights Lisa Ahearn, Middle School Master Teacher

1

Working and Playing Together

The Middle School Division has been enjoying the beginning of the school year together! There are many new faces in the division this year - new staff and new students that have moved up from

2

Elementary. We are making new friends, and getting used to classroom routines. Everyone enjoyed the gorgeous fall day and the fun family activities on Sports Day! Academics have started off strong, learning about the school year, reading “The Haunted Mask,” working on

3

number sense, and learning all about the solar system. We are all looking forward to continuing to grow and thrive while we all work together! Up next is Winter Music Festival, and all the fun that winter brings. Stay tuned for more adventures from the Middle School division!

!


Emergence Highlights Jamie Marshall, EP Division Director

1

Emergence Gets Into the Swing of Things

Our 11th Annual Golf Tournament was a huge success and a lot of fun for both students and families. While the rest of the school participated in Sports Day, the Emergence Program held its own special event on October 18th, driving, chipping and putting at Golf City in West Bridgewater. There are four goals on which our annual outing is based: - First, to experience an age

appropriate activity while still maintaining the Sports Day theme

- Secondly, to gain exposure to a typical community activity that will allow for skill development in a recreational area.

- Thirdly, to help identify individual interest in a potentially life long hobby, making such

2

outings desirable in the future.

- Most importantly, we want everyone involved to have fun!

With a team score of 45 strokes for 9-Holes of golf, classroom teacher Patrick Idima guided his group to a first place victory. Students Elvir H. and Patrick G., and their family members relied heavily on Patrick’s skillful caddying (and questionable scoring system!) to lead his group to the victory. Second place went to Scott Hartwell’s group with a score of 47. Billy D., Luke P., and Ryan S. challenged for the lead all day long, but in the end, fell to Patrick’s group by a 2 strokes. Billy’s brothers were masterful with the long-ball, giving teammates opportunities on and around the greens. Seizing 3rd place was Jamie Marshall’s group of Zac M. and Aaron Z. with a very honest score of 50. Aaron and his mother were a force to be reckoned with within 10 yards of the greens. Zac’s dad and sister did the heavy lifting off the tees. Teachers and parents noted significant gains in the short game of many of our students, with chips onto the green and many putts inside of 5 feet being sunk! To assist students with their long game, many teachers encouraged the students to use tees when hitting from the fairways. A special thanks goes our to P.E. teacher Brett Armstrong,

3

who coordinated golf practices, both on campus during P.E. lessons, and in the community at driving ranges and putting greens. All classes had an opportunity to walk the course at Golf City and play a few holes prior to the tournament. His efforts, along with classroom teachers and support staff, resulted in dramatic skill acquisition and improvement in many of the students. For the afternoon’s activities it was back to the school to compete in the “Higashi Games.” Johnny DePippo organized a series of skills competitions that pitted class against class. The Emergence A Class, led by Jackie Moniz, dominated the competition, getting the highest scores in almost all of the 5 skills stations. Activities included a heavy ball throw, soccer-bowling, place kicking, a Frisbee throw for distance and accuracy, and a beanbag toss. Parents and family members did a great job helping their sons and daughters compete, and cheering them on. Our students are already looking forward to next year’s event!

!


EP Golf Tournament October 18th, 2014

!


Sports Day

!


October 18th, 2014

!


Residence News – Middle School

3

more special. We enjoyed pumpkin carving, and not only learned to make apple pies, but we enjoyed eating them too! Together, we know we will make it. We have great teamwork, and we are all working hard to ensure that we are learning as well as enjoying the fun. It may be getting colder, but we are looking forward to enjoying winter activities too. After all, we are ready for it!

Residential Roundup Christopher White, Residential Program Director

1

Together We Can In light of our school theme “Together,” I went online to find a quote. After searching the vast supply the Internet offers, this quote really struck me:

2

To me, this quote really epitomizes this year’s theme of “Teamwork.” As the new school year begins, it draws together new students, parents, and teachers. We come together and review goals, expectations, and

3

concerns. We learn from each other, and begin growing as a team. Now, as the end of the calendar year approaches, we have made strides, but have also faced challenges, testing our resilience to work together and to continue making progress. While there are small accomplishments that promote our students’ well being and education each day, it is sometimes not until the end of the school year that we get time to reflect, and really see the much larger accomplishments we have made. All accomplishments, are due to the hard work and perseverance of the team, coming, staying, and working together. It is this teamwork that helps us reach our fullest potential. The articles that follow will give you a glimpse into how we have come together at the Residence since the beginning of the school year. I wish you all the best for a safe, and fun 2014-2015!

1

New Friends and New Activities!

What a wonderful division we have this academic year. By the way, we are Middle School now, Intermediate no more! We are bigger boys this year, and we now have a bigger family! We started off by welcoming our new friends Noah and Mark, who have not only enlarged our family, but

2

have added more fun and joy. We say ‘welcome one, welcome all.’ We are focusing on strengthening our division’s love and friendship, and we will welcome any future member who might join us before the end of the year. The fall season is already giving us its share of fun as well. The beautiful scenery created by the colorful trees and favorable weather have made seasonal apple and pumpkin picking activities even

!


1

Having Fun – Together! Junior High Division is back and ready for action! We’ve wished our friend David and teachers Michael and Caroline good luck in their new divisions and said hello to our new friends Chukwudi and

2

Jared! They have jumped into our Higashi family with both feet and are helping us embrace our theme of togetherness. Together we have already gone on dozens of trips hiking, shopping, golfing, and having tons of fun. Together we are working to

3

dance our hardest, sing our loudest, paint our brightest, and cook up the best year we can. And together we are looking forward to eating out at restaurants, partying with our friends and families, and trying our hardest every day.

Residence News – Junior High

Residence News – High School B

1

Moving Forward in HS-B In line with this year’s school theme “Togetherness,” High School-B has adopted the theme “Together, We Change for the Better” and true to form, there are already new and exciting changes this academic year. First is the brand new swimming pool in the school. HS-B intends to reap maximum benefit from

2

the facility. The division is also excited about the new reading activity in the schedule and is ready to utilize it. All in all, we look forward to establishing strong bonds within the new HS-B family that will enable us to walk the path of success together. From the look of things we are all ready for the new academic year.

3

Ready to cook in HS-B!

!

1

Family Ties in the Girls Division!

Greetings and happy fall! On behalf of Girls Division, I would like to welcome you to the 2014-2015 school year. My name is Tiffany Phillips-Goodman and I am the

2

Assistant Master Teacher of Girls Division. I am honored to work with an amazing group of

teachers, including our Master Teacher, Kei Komai, our residential instructor, Jacqueline Thistle and our overnight instructors, Anne Villani, Maha Morsy and Judith Mwangi. We are excited for a great year filled with many unforgettable

memories. This year, going along with our school theme of “Together”, we have chosen our division theme to be “Family.” We selected this theme because of the very

3

qualities a family represents — respect, love, kindness, etc. These qualities are the very lessons we teach our students in their everyday lives here at Higashi. Although this theme is for the year, we hope the message lasts a lifetime.

Residence News – Girls’ Division

!


1

HS-A Looks Forward Fall ushered in the 2014-2015 school year, and with it came a new division name: High School A (formerly known as Junior High B). First, our warmest welcome to David, joining us from the former Middle School Division. Bonding in this team, though still in its infancy, has been largely aided by the exciting fall activities and trips we have taken. Pumpkin picking at the Nihtila Farm in Holbrook, apple picking at the Wards Berry Farm in

2

Bridgewater, and most recently a visit to the historical Walden Pond in Concord have all brought us closer together. We look forward to extending these bonds to family and friends through the upcoming dances for this semester, namely the Costume Dance Party and the Winter Dance Party. Please mark your calendars for these very special occasions, and dance the evening away with great music TOGETHER with those we cherish in our lives. Our student success will anchor mainly on three

3

elements. First, on the creation of a safe environment that facilitates both teaching and learning. Second, on harnessing staff experience and creatively translating it into action, through the development of activities that are not only fun and interesting but also motivate students to work harder. Third, through training and leadership at the residence, staff will constantly implement, assess and evaluate our teaching approaches, paying attention to the challenges and successes of each student so as to best meet each student’s needs. Greater emphasis will be placed on strengthening the existing relationships amongst staff, parents, nurses and students, in ensuring that information is shared meaningfully, as envisaged in this year’s school theme of TOGETHER.

Residence News – High School A

1

Looking to the Future in Young Adults

Young Adults Division is beaming with pride and energy as we continue to usher in the new school year. To the young men, it is another milestone in their journey to being productive citizens in adulthood. Our new division has a dedicated team of staff, eager to challenge

Residence News – Young Adults

2

the young men to realize their full potential. This year, our division goal is “Pulling Together.” And true to the spirit of this goal, the Young Adults team has demonstrated the utmost dedication and commitment to the sacred task of providing our students with a rich educational experience based on our school’s unique philosophy of Daily Life

3

Therapy®. We have set very high expectations for our students in the core areas of daily living skills, as well as community and recreation skills. With the learning environment set up and the rooms looking beautiful, we can only look forward to a truly enriching experience for our young men this year.

Left: HS-A is looking forward to a productive and fun year!

!


1

Working Together To Achieve Our Best!

Our division goal for the year is “Teamwork.” Our staff in EP Girls has truly worked together, and through “heart to heart education” has delivered instruction to our students with amazing results. The students’ community,

2

recreation, and self-care skills have improved a lot over only a few short months. Staff and students together have chosen activities of focus, such as the meals, recreation activities and community trips that enhance everyone’s quality of life. Finally, the autumn season is here and the students had a

3

great time at the annual Costume Party Dance. The girls went pumpkin picking, and even decorated their apartments with carved pumpkins for the season. We are excited to work with your children, and will continue to work hard to achieve our goals together!

Residence News – Emergence Girls !

1

Welcome Fall!

As the leaves start to change and we begin a new school year at the Boston Higashi School, the Residential Emergence Program has also gone through a transition. We have said goodbye to some students, but have welcomed two new

2

students to our program. We are pleased to have Luke P. and Ryan H. join in the Emergence experience. As our students engage in fall activities, each apartment looks forward to participating in events such as pumpkin picking, traveling through a corn maze, attending college football and soccer games, and

3

most importantly, preparing for the ever so fun Costume Dance Party. With so many activities to look forward to in the fall season, the residential emergence program is excited for any experiences that come our way. We will enjoy them all as a team!

Residence News – Emergence Boys !

Join Us for some Holiday Cheer!

Winter Music Festival Friday, December 19th, 2014

10am-Noon (in the Gym)

The event is free and open to the public. Hope to see you there!

!


Supporting Donors

Gerard & Maureen Kelly

Ernesto & Janice Luy

Darrin & Edie Prescott

The Simonelli & Maher Families in Honor of Mark Simonelli

Special Kids Fund

Team Emily

Masashi & Marie Yamazaki

The Swimming Pool Complex consists of two pools, one of which is a zero-entry pool and the other a four-lane lap pool, locker rooms and a snack bar facility. The pools will be open to the fresh air in the summer months and covered by an

Boston Higashi School is grateful for the steadfast and generous support from our donors.

Founding Donors

Mayer & Leah Danziger

The Evan Henry Foundation for Autism

Edwin M. Johnston, Jr. Family Foundation

Robert & Donna Mattie

William & Linda Schell

Beverly & Miriam Schwartz

Leadership Donors

The Donovan Family in Memory of Mark Donovan

Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation

Eisai USA Foundation, Inc.

John & Amy Ferrie

Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of New York, Inc.

Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Inc.

Mitsubishi International Corporation

Nippon Express Foundation, Inc.

Ruth Schwartz

Jessica Tsai-Yuang Tsung Major Donors

William & Susan Barber

William & Deborah Knowlton

Long Strides for Louis

Teamsters Local 25 Autism Fund, Inc.

!


Thanks to the generous support from parents, families and friends, we are happy to announce that phase one of the Higashi Athletic & Recreation Complex is now complete. This is a significant milestone in the history of the Boston Higashi School, which will have a major impact on our campus, and greatly benefit the children we serve. A reception was held on Nov. 20th in our new pool building to dedicate the Pinny Danziger Swim Center, Kyle Mattie All-Season Track, and David A. Schwartz Snack Zone. The new pool facility sparkled, and the clear blue water reflected the smiles of all who attended. Thank you to our donors, parents, families and friends for making what was once a dream become a reality for the students we are privileged to serve.

November 20th, 2014

Higashi Athletic & Recreation Complex Dedication Reception

!


Parent’s Perspective Lisa Burgess, Parent Association President!

1

A warm welcome back to our new and returning parents and students as we start the 2014-2015 school year! Our theme for this year is “Together.” Our school’s founder, Dr. Kiyo Kitahara, believed that love, when combined with teamwork, would accomplish great things. It is the mission of the Boston Higashi School Parent Association (BHSPA) to support the school and promote a sense of “togetherness.” We welcome you to join us for the upcoming events and we always welcome new volunteers. On our first day back in September, we had two of our alumni parents, Frank and Diann Sespico come and speak about Diann’s new book, “Nichol’s Way.” It was amazing to be able to not only hear their story, but also hear personal stories about Dr. Kitahara and the beginning of Boston Higashi School in America.

2

On September 19th, some of us attended a retirement party for Kay Carroll, a longtime member of the Higashi family. Many of us have been blessed to have gotten to know Kay over the years. I hope that some of our new families will get to me her at upcoming events. We wish Kay all the best! Sports Day was on October 18th, and it was extra special this year. We all got to see the new swimming pool and track complex. From our youngest students, to our oldest, it was a day of fun had by all. Some of what the BHSPA supports throughout the schoolyear: Halloween Party and Dance, Winter Music Festival, Valentine’s Day Party and Dance, funding a parent representative for the annual Japan trip, limousines for the Formal Dance, staff appreciation, sewing costumes for the Annual Celebration, and food for the Bon Dance Festival. Over the years, some of the parents have organized

3

fundraisers such as road races, fishing/fun days, Paw Sox games, etc. These events are a wonderful way to meet other families. Another great way to meet other families is by attending the Parent Training Sessions that the school offers on a variety of topics throughout the year. Special thanks to those who are on our board this year. We welcome new members John and Kathy Sidlauskas and Tina Blanchette. Thank you to Charles Borlam and Paula Haite for their hard work and dedication the past several years. A big shout out to all those who have made donations and volunteered already this year. Thank you! Please feel free to contact me by phone at (508) 813-0587 or [email protected]. Warm regards,

Lisa Burgess President - BHSPA

!

2014-2015 Boston Higashi School Parent Association

Position Name e-mail President Lisa Burgess [email protected] First Vice President Janet Murphy [email protected] Second Vice President John & Kathy Sidlauskas [email protected] Out of State Vice President Tina Blanchette [email protected] Treasurer Cheryl Begnal [email protected] Assistant Treasurer Julie Coppenrath [email protected] Recording Secretary Paula Baldassini [email protected] Corresponding Secretary Patrice Dwyer [email protected]

!


Health Room News Tracy Shepherd, Head Nurse

1

The Health Room has been busy working with Brittany from Visiting Dental Associates of Massachusetts these past few weeks. The dental screenings are complete, and Brittany is currently working on preventative care for those who signed up. Our students have done great so far; Brittany is wonderful with them, and we are lucky and grateful to have her working with us! We’ve seen a few minor illnesses/bugs going around, but so far we’ve kept

2

Enterovirus at bay. We’re now on alert for flu-like illness and want to remind parents that it’s not too late for you and / or your family to get vaccinated to protect against influenza. We recommend that you follow the advice of your child’s physician in regards to immunizations. And remember - hand washing is the BEST way to prevent the spread of infection and illness. We are also aware that many you may have questions about the Ebola outbreak affecting individuals in West

3

Africa, and the isolated cases in the United States. We want to assure you that Higashi is taking precautions in order to protect the vulnerable population that we support, as well as our employees and their families. Last, but not least -- Please join us in congratulating one of our day nurses, Erin Youhas, on the arrival her FIFTH son, Colin James, born October 23rd. She will certainly have her hands full – I’m sure she is looking forward to returning to work!

Thanks to Brittany from Visiting Dental Associates of Massachusetts for keeping

our teeth clean and healthy!

We had a beautiful Sunday morning September 14th at Schartner Farms for the Inaugural “Run for Them Apples 5K.” The kids' 1 mile fun run was an off-road course around a corn maze and through the apple orchard, while the 5K race runners continued onto the scenic back roads of Bolton. It was well attended with a total of 63 runners, including my daughter, Helen. There were a total of 5 fundraising teams participating in race day. Combined, the teams raised just over $1500, with “Team Tiny” in first place with $875 raised! After the race, the runners were encouraged to make their way through the corn maze, take a hayride, pick a bushel of apples or sit and enjoy a nice cider with a freshly made cider donut. All in all, it was a very enjoyable day. I hope to see you all there next year! -Julie Coppenrath

A beautiful day for a 5K in Bolton!

!


Halloween Party & Dance

October 29th, 2014!

!


October 31st, 2014!

Halloween Costume Party

!


Written'by:'Anaele'C.'Amaechi'

September'24,'2014'

Dedicated'to:'Boston'Higashi'School'

'

(“Children'are'educated'by'what'the'grownEup'

is'and'not'by'his/her'talk.”'–'Carl'C.'Jung)'

'

There'is'this'place,'where'they'embrace'

And$accept$every$race$

In'a'town'(Randolph,'MA)'

Where$this$place$will$be$found$

There'they'teach'students'a'methodology'

Which$they$call$“Daily$Life$Therapy”$

So'they'can'contribute'to'their'society'

Started$a$long$time$ago$

By'a'lady'from'Tokyo'

Teaching$children$and$young$adults$

to$reach$their$potential$

In'this'life'this'is'essential'

This$is$our$mission$

Also'the'school’s'tradition'

The$students$come$in$all$colors,$shapes$and$sizes$

This'is'who'they'are,'no'disguises'

They$come$with$their$own$special$gifts$

Like'that'of'singer'Taylor'Swift'

Find$your$own$before$it$goes$adrift$

One'of'their'mottos'is'“sit'quietly'and'make'a'pose”'

This$every$one$knows$

They'call'this'place'“Higashi”'

Preparing$students$minds$“Kimochi$Zukuri”$

We'have'so'much'to'learn'and'teach'our'students'

There$is$always$room$for$improvements$

It’s'up'to'us'to'be'their'guidance'

To$help$them$develop$their$confidence$Special'things'happen'here;'that'is'extraordinary'

Come$and$take$a$tour$and$see$the$work$of$a$visionary$

(Dr.$Kiyo$Kitahara)$

Our'story'has'come'to'a'close'and'I'say'“Sayonara”'

Hope$to$see$you$soon$as$we$continue$our$saga!$

!

Thanks to everyone who attended our Boston Higashi School Speaker Series

lectures this fall!

We welcomed back Robyn Steward on October 2nd for a wonderful presentation entitled “Making SENSE of Autism from the Inside Out.” Robyn’s talk provided the audience with a unique opportunity to ask questions about the causes of common behaviors, and explore strategies for improving the quality of life for those on the spectrum. Read more about Robyn at www.robynsteward.com.

We opened our school year with a presentation by Frank and Diann Sespico, alumni parents and authors of the book Nicol’s Way. Their talk chronicled Nicol’s life, from her first interactions with Dr. Kitahara at the Tokyo School, through the early days of Boston Higashi School, to her current group home and early adulthood life.

!


!

On September 19th, the Higashi community gathered to celebrate the retirement of Kay Carroll, who, for 22 years, was the first face many people saw as they entered Higashi. A plaque has been permanently attached to her desk, which reads “May all who enter as guests leave as friends.” We wish Kay the continued love and happiness that she brought to so many students, parents, and families at Higashi. We’ll miss you Kay!

We ’ l l Miss You, Kay!

!


!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Higashi Happenings – Exciting Events are Everywhere!

The Harvey Memorial Local 7 Retired IW Golf Tournament was held on Wednesday, September 10, 2014 at Presidents Golf Course in Quincy. Boston Higashi School was represented by Mike Kelly, Mrs. Ebi, Joe Murphy & Amy Carter. Parent Larry Haite played in the tournament as well. Jim Lawlor, grandfather of Higashi student Austin Linnehan, organized the event, and all proceeds benefitted BHS! Thank you so much Jim for making this great outing possible!

Emergence Program student Thomas Yamazaki spent his summer vacation at the Natural Farming Learning Lab in Havi, Hawaii! While there, he learned hands-on techniques for farming and animal care. For more information, please visit www.pidf.org/programs/ka_hana_noeau/about.

Did you know we have a Wikispace for Boston Higashi School called “HigashiKids,” where students can access safe and familiar educational content that they use during Technology classes at Higashi? The web address is: http://higashikids.wikispaces.com. Content is organized into the following subject areas: Language arts (mouse skills, vocabulary, phonics, sight words, spelling, and typing), Library (books), Math (counting, number lines, arithmetic and money skills), Science (the food pyramid, animals, solar system, digestive system, and nutrition), Social Studies (community sites, world), Leisure (puzzles), and P.E. (BHS exercises videos for the younger and older divisions). If you have any questions about the HigashiKids wikispace, please feel free to contact your student’s classroom or communication teacher. We hope you will check it out with your child!

!


Higashi Happenings – Exciting Events are Everywhere!

On Friday, September 26th 2014, we had a special concert with the Sapporo Junior Jazz School from Sapporo, Japan, and world-renowned jazz trumpeter Tiger Okoshi. The Sapporo Junior Jazz School consists of 22 middle school students, and their level of talent was unbelievable! We were amazed by each student’s high level of skill, expression, and musicianship.

To finish the concert, we played “Take the ‘A’ Train” together as a joint session with our Jazz Band, joined by Tiger Okoshi. It was a truly remarkable afternoon of music!

Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Look no further than Higashi parent Janice Luy’s new store, Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme! Operated by family friend Elvina Mira, the store sells an assortment of herbs, spices, and gardening items, as well as books, jewelry items, and our very own Higashi ceramics! The store is located at 5 Memorial Parkway in Randolph. Hope to see you there!

On Sunday, October 19th, our Higashi Jazz Band was invited to “Walk Now for Autism Speaks” at the Xfinity Center in Mansfield MA. It was our first time in 5 years playing at the walk, and our students represented Higashi well! We had the honor of playing on the main stage where so many world famous artists have performed. After our performance, many people who were touched by our music came to the stage to meet the members and congratulate them. Well done, Jazz Band!

!


Daycare Delights Pam Patrone, Director of Daycare!

1

We are all excited about the holidays coming. Last month we had a great time with Halloween. There were super heroes, princesses, celebrities, Michael Jackson, the Blues Brothers, Elsa, Dorothy… just to name a few of the cast of characters that we had here for Halloween. The preschool children went “Trick–or-Treating” around the building and got a lot of smiles from the staff here as well as some delicious treats! Our next event is our annual Harvest Feast. We have invited all the families to come and share in a delicious holiday meal. Grandparents, siblings, aunts and uncles and any other family members are all invited to share in this event. The staff at the day care supplies the turkey, the space and the entertainment! (The

2

older preschoolers have a special poem they will recite about being thankful). Each family brings something to add to the feast, whether its food, a dessert, beverages or just their company, we love it all! The excitement keeps growing for our next event. You are probably thinking Christmas, Hanukkah. or Kwanzaa, BUT, before those wonderful holidays come up, we celebrate Mickey Mouse’s birthday! Mickey Mouse is a favorite topic here at the day care. Mickey will be celebrating his 86th birthday on November 18th! We don’t really discuss his age much (shhh) but we all celebrate with decorations and cupcakes for all! Now, we enter into the most joyous season of all. While we acknowledge that all families celebrate this season

3

in many ways, we at the day care are excited about the Higashi Winter Musical Festival and the arrival of Santa Claus! The older preschoolers will sing a song at the musical festival, and are already busy practicing. As for Santa, well, we are not sure when he will stop by for a visit, but we will be ready for him! This holiday season brings with it all kinds of music, special activities, wonderful stories, parties, family gatherings and sometimes snow! Whatever way you celebrate the holiday season, we hope that it is filled with wonder, excitement, unbelievable memories and love.

!


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: Lisa Greco, Receptionist; Nancy Hurley-Shannon, Receptionist; Michelle Webber, Communication Teacher; Latasha Simmons, Student Support; Hilary Holmes, HS Art Teacher; Carla Goodwin, Art Activity Leader; Paul Fanning, Chief Development Director; Robert Frazier, Employment Ed Activity Leader, Marina Chirinos de Rojas, Maintenance; Nonaliza Arias Soto, Maintenance. Please introduce yourself to these new employees when you see them! We said goodbye to the following staff: Kay Carroll, Peter Barron, Paul Brennan, Chia-Yu “Judy” Lai, Anne Vohs, Alana Tashjian, Peter Cavicchio, Rosalind Kimani, Saiko Otake, Eriko Pires, Joshua Yousif, Kerri Vetrano, and Ciro Arenas. We wish them well in their future endeavors and thank them for their dedication to the students and staff here at Higashi.

!

!

We offer sincerest condolences to Jamie Marshall, Makiba White, Samuel Karanja, Ijeoma Olabode, Uchenna Onuoha, and Dennis March on the loss of their family members.

!

Congratulations to Lindsay Bishop, Speech and Language Pathologist, and her new husband, Paul Bishop, on their recent marriage!

Congratulations to Joy Iroh and Egbuta

Ndukwe on the birth of their daughter,

Blessing !

Congratulations to Louisa Akagori

and Roland Adingo on the birth of their son, Josiah

!

Congratulations to Erin Youhas and

family on the birth of her son,

Colin James !

Congratulations to Seimi and

Matt Kurkul on the birth of their

daughter, Aidan Ann

Congratulations to Jen Kelley and her husband Andrew on the birth of their son, Nathaniel

!

!


!!

!

More Please Bill Burke, Executive Chef !

!

1

As many of you know, the Culinary Arts program has been growing and developing over the past few years. Much progress has been made, and the program continues to meet the needs of our students, both in an academic setting and in a “lets have a bowl of popcorn” way. The program is focused to better prepare our students for what lies ahead once they graduate. Making a sandwich

2

and opening a can of healthy soup for lunch are skills that the students can take with them once they graduate. We championed the fresh herbs and spice project over the summer, and we used what was grown in our cooking activities. The students purchased the herbs and spices, planted them, watered them according to a written schedule, and harvested them throughout the growing season. We also prepared the greenhouse area for planting numerous vegetables. The ground was prepared, turned, fertilized with organic fertilizer, and then the seeds were planted. The harvest was substantial and the quality and

3

taste of the fresh vegetables was so much better than what is available in a grocery store! Our bread-making project continues to thrive, and the students enjoy the baking process. Another activity that will be debuting soon is the making and selling of snack items at the new David A. Schwartz Snack Zone, outside of our pool area. Students will sell soft drinks, homemade cookies, potato chips and other snack items. Our annual Thanksgiving Lunch was once again well attended, and enjoyed by all that came. Wishing you good food and great company this holiday season!

By Carmine DeCicco

higashi highlights - fall 2014 issue

Documents

boston higashi school

school districts

new school year

health improved health

higashi highlights challenge

strong parent attendance

past director

executive director