As I look to the start of another year, I find that it is not the end nor a beginning but an opportunity to continue to expand the knowledge and experience that we have gained over the last 365 days.

Tap-it Technology

• Technology burst onto the scene at the ELBS and across the world. Classrooms equipped with iPads, touch screens and Tap-its enable faculty to truly individualize students programs.  A conference room equipped with an interactive white board, state of the art printer, computer and conference speaker phones allows us to fully engage our parents in the IEP process.
• Adaptive equipment for children with mobility challenges is enabling students who came to us wheelchair bound to walk with assistive devices in the halls.

  

  Dr. Mary Beth Pinto and Jessie, therapy dog

• Dog therapy has been integrated into our curriculum and was showcased during our Christmas play.
• Under the direction of Jude Shingle, artist in residence, students are creating their own iBooks with the use of digital technology.
• Research continues to tell us the most effective treatments for students with autism and other challenges.
• Our Beast on the Bay, an extreme obstacle course challenge and adaptive course brought many new friends to Erie and the BNI.  Mark your calendars for next year’s Beast on the Bay on September 6, 2014.

  

  Beast on the Bay

• Every student has an individually designed adaptive bicycle program thanks to Chris Gross, PT.  Sharing her expertise with others across the country, Chris has written an iBook on adaptive bicycling which can be purchased at the iTunes store.
• Our students and faculty reached out to the community with a penny drive for the John Kanzius Foundation and raised over $1,000.
• Working with University of Notre Dame on our robot project allowed us to be on the cutting edge of using robotics in teaching children with ASD.
• My blog has had over 10,000 visits. What began as a desire to share what I have learned with others is helping many internationally from Saudi Arabia to Mexico to China.
• Music is heard daily through our halls as we expanded our collaborations to include not only the YPC of Erie but also the Erie Chamber Orchestra.

2013 was a year of many accomplishments.  We have achieved much through the efforts of our dedicated staff who inspired our children and adults.  With the support of our community we will continue to make dreams come true in 2014.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”  Eleanor Roosevelt