Category Archives: Uncategorized

My Hope

As fast as the political campaigning began, it ended.  To be honest, I’m happy the barrage of political ads that seemed to envelope the media has ended. What a difference a few days can make.  However, even though the elections … Continue reading

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Voting: All People Have a Voice

It’s Election Day!  Whether Democrat, Republican or Independent, it’s a day when our voices get to be heard as we vote in local and national races.  Ryan and I decided to vote early today with hopes of avoiding the crowds … Continue reading

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Artist Makes Dreams Come True for Students

Disney has Mickey and Pixar may have Nemo, but only the Elizabeth Lee Black School at the Barber National Institute in Erie, PA has Dharma, Angelina and Mackenzie.  These are just a few of the 60 students who became stars … Continue reading

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Emergency Preparation: Are We Ready?

The wind whipped through the trees, rain pelted the windows and I wondered how prepared our families are for an unusual weather occurrence. Living in Erie, PA, we seldom consider disaster preparedness. Snow storms dumping two feet of snow are … Continue reading

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7 Tips for Successful Trick-or-Treating

It’s a sunny, warm Thursday in Erie today. Looking out the window, one would guess that the Fourth of July, not Halloween, is approaching.  However, as I walk though the school I’m reminded that this is October. Our school is … Continue reading

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The Power of a Word

Have you ever used the word “retarded” to describe a child or an adult that you know? Have you ever heard someone else use it as slang in conversation? When I was teaching in the 80s, special education was thought … Continue reading

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Planning & Prevention Tips for Children with ASD

As discussed in Tuesday’s blog, 50% of children with autism spectrum disorder wander. Today, I encourage you as parents and caregivers to be prepared and establish a plan should this occur with your child. As a parent, you can never … Continue reading

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Children with ASD & Wandering: A Compelling Research Study

Did you know that 50% of children with ASD have attempted to wander or run off at least once after the age of four? This statistic is shocking but very real. Truth be told, Ryan and I are a part … Continue reading

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“I see you, as a classmate, as an equal, as a friend. Do you see me?”

Best Buddies International came to Erie last night. Dorian Smith, director of Best Buddies PA, and Ryan Christy, chair of the Pittsburgh Best Buddies Advisory Board, discussed with us how we as a community could become a Best Buddies chapter. 

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e-Buddies Creates Lasting Friendships

Happy Anniversary to Ryan and his e-Buddy Victoria!  Ryan became involved with the e-Buddies program, sponsored by Best Buddies, just over a year ago.  At the time, I was investigating the Best Buddies program and learned that there wasn’t a … Continue reading

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