Category Archives: Uncategorized

Brandon Boyd, a Barber National Institute staffer who works in External Affairs, recently shared a blog he wrote for Autism Awareness Month. His brother, Jason, was a preschool student with us 20 nears ago. I still remember the day Brandon was … Continue reading →

Established in 1971, The Week of the Young Child™ (WOYC) is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children , created to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families … Continue reading →

Do you volunteer? As we begin National Volunteer Week, I thought back to my “early days” of volunteering. In the Barber family, 13 was the magic age to begin volunteering. A girl had two options: be a candy striper at … Continue reading →

Following Sunday’s op-ed in the Erie Times News, I thought that I might share a mom’s perspective on employment. Ryan began volunteering at Bello’s Market, a family-owned grocery store and meat market in Erie, during high school. As with any … Continue reading →

Something momentous occurred in Pennsylvania a few weeks ago. No, it wasn’t the budget passage, although that was very important, too. As part of the celebration of Intellectual Disability Awareness Month, on March 10 Gov. Tom Wolf signed an executive … Continue reading →

Tomorrow begins our month-long celebration of Autism Awareness. For the past seven years, we have worn the color blue on April 2nd in honor and recognition of April’s Autism month. Many people have asked me the question: “Why do we … Continue reading →

Scientists and researchers are constantly uncovering more information related to autism, offering insights into the origins, possible causes and even at times potential cures. I come across dozens of articles on a weekly basis, some of which seem more important … Continue reading →

The Council for Art Education (CFAE) administers Youth Art Month at the national level. Festivities take place annually, traditionally each March, to celebrate visual arts for grades K – 12. The Youth Art Month Program emphasizes the value of art … Continue reading →

As yesterday was World Poetry Day, I thought I would share a poem about Ryan. I hope you enjoy! I smiled thinking back to memories of days gone by. ~ Maureen If you knew me… You would know that the … Continue reading →

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! As you walk the halls of our school today, you will see every shade of green that you can imagine. Yes, it is a fun day for both students and staff! However, it’s a day rooted … Continue reading →