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COVE CHRONICLE
COVE
2014 EDITION
Letter from the Executive Director Each year at this time, we proudly highlight the accomplishments of our students and showcase some of the events of the year that contributed to the successes we shared. This year is no exception and could arguably be one of our most exceptional. The conclusion of our Cove@65 Campaign in the fall of 2013 marked the beginning of new opportunities at Cove. Inside this edition of The Chronicle, you will get a glimpse of the impact it has made and of the initiatives that have led to significant improvements in our technology, health/fitness, and transition programs. Thanks to the campaign, our professional development was of the highest quality as well, and teachers at Cove have been leading the way for others to learn about what works for students with complex learning disabilities. Our overall focus on college and career readiness is strong and our new relationship with Motorola Mobility Foundation has exemplified all that is possible when experts in the field join forces in the classroom to provide extraordinary meaningful experiences that inspire and prepare our students for life after
Cove. Look inside to see all that our amazing graduates have achieved and all the promise they bring to the next chapter in their purpose filled lives. As our 2009-14 Strategic Plan comes to a close, we acknowledge the astonishing accomplishments that have been made possible over the past five years by a community that is dedicated to making a difference that matters to those with disabilities. Our new Strategic Plan begins this year and there is no doubt that the great work that has begun will continue to develop in ways that will astound those around us. On behalf of all of us at The Cove School, thank you for believing in us and for being an important part of a Community that cares. With heartfelt gratitude, Sally L. Sover, Ed.D.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE Professional Development. . . . . . . . 2 Motorola STEAM Program. . . . . . . . 3 Cove@65 Follow up. . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Cove Graduates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Memorable Moments . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Aaron Thal Transition Scholarship . .6 “Changing Tomorrow� Day . . . . . . . 7 Benefit Save the Date . . . . . . . . . . . 8
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Professional Development Promotes Growth by Donna Torf, M.A., CCC, Speech-Language Pathologist
Above: Dr. Sally Sover introduces Dr. Steve Graham of Arizona State University Center: Dr. Steve Graham. Right: Four of Cove’s speech language pathologists, Shannon English, Sue Turner, Donna Torf and Barbara Ralsky present at the Illinois Speech-Language-Hearing Association Conference.
Unique professional development events enlivened the winter months this year. In January, Cove hosted Dr. Steve Graham, who presented a day-long program to our faculty and to professionals from the area. Dr. Graham, professor at Arizona State University, has been a prolific researcher and author in the field of writing instruction. His findings led to the development of a writing model called SelfRegulated Strategy Development (SRSD). SRSD is not an instructional program, but rather it is a methodology for teaching writing that is evidence-based and has been applied by other researchers and writing program developers. Dr. Graham explained and demonstrated the six components of SRSD that have been found to improve the writing abilities of students, including those with learning disabilities. As the name indicates, a key component is selfregulation. This involves teaching students to be purposeful and self-directed through the stepwise process of writing. The format incudes direct instruction of skills, such as sentencecombining, and development of strategies, such as the mnemonic TREE for persuasive writing (topic sentence, reasons, explanations, ending sentence). As an approved provider of continuing
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education programs through the Illinois State Board of Education, all participants earned CPDUs (continuing professional development units). In February, two clinical teams from The Cove School were themselves the presenters of continuing education programs. Five of our Speech-Language Pathologists – Sue Turner,
Language Department has acquired over 40 children’s books, and the Media Center another 40, drawn from read-alouds recommended by researcher Isabel Beck.
Then, on February 22, Social Worker Chris Grene and SLP Donna Torf, presented a continuing education program at the Learning Disabilities Association’s Dr. Graham explained and demonstrated the six components International of SRSD that have been found to improve the writing abilities Conference in Anaheim, California. Their oneof students, including those with learning disabilities. hour presentation, Barbara Ralsky, Shannon English, Donna Torf “High School Girls Friendship Groups,” described and Amy Berghoff – together developed and their interdisciplinary collaboration in structuring presented a two-hour program at the Illinois an ongoing intervention with a small group of Speech-Language-Hearing Association Annual Cove students. The weekly group meetings that Convention on February 8th. The program, began in fall of 2012 and continued through “Robust Vocabulary for Students with Languagethe 2013-2014 school year, targeted social skills Learning Disabilities,” detailed the vocabularyand communication skills for the purpose of building intervention initiated by Mrs. Turner in establishing and maintaining friendships. This 2010 that has since grown to become a familiar overarching goal of relationship provided realstaple across the units at Cove. Based in multilife purposefulness for the skill-building work. sourced research that links vocabulary growth The presentation highlighted the importance with reading ability, and which identifies proven of friendship in human development and the instructional techniques, these vocabulary lessons obstacles faced by students with language and utilize children’s literature as context for learning learning difficulties. robust words. To support this effort, the Speech-
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CC Cove Pilots STEAM Program with Motorola Mobility Foundation Q & A with Cove’s Technology Coordinator, Mark Fijor
What is STEAM? A STEAM focused curriculum provides a strong foundation rooted in the knowledge used to solve complex real-world problems. STEAM promotes the ability to use this knowledge across all disciplines, both inside and out of the scientific and technological domains. STEAM literacy refers to the student’s ability to apply his or her understanding of how the world works within and across the following domains: • Scientific Literacy • Artistic Literacy • Technological Literacy • Mathematical Literacy • Engineering Literacy Who started this program at Cove and why? The idea for the program was a collaborative effort between the Cove technology department and a group of classroom teachers. Staff met and worked closely with the Motorola Mobility Foundation to share our idea, collaborate on curriculum development and ultimately create a summer pilot program for STEAM here at Cove. What kind of learning does this program encourage? The program focuses on a project based learning approach that allows students to learn in a hands-on and collaborative way. The curriculum for each unit leads students through a Design Thinking Framework that allows them to solve real-world problems by leveraging the knowledge gained through research and real-world experts. In addition to Design Thinking, teachers will also help students develop Habits of Mind where students learn how to develop a critical stance with their work: inquiring, editing, thinking flexibly, and learning from another person’s perspective. How can this program benefit students with learning disabilities? The STEAM program allows students to work collaboratively to solve problems and create open-ended products. The classes offered at each unit offer a unique opportunity to participate in projects and experiences that may not have been available to students with learning disabilities in a traditional school setting. The STEAM program follows the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) by building approaches into student learning experiences to assist those who would not otherwise be able to participate while at the same time enhancing the learning of all students.
What does a Motorola Mobility Partnership mean for Cove? Motorola has been instrumental in providing funding and resources to help make this program possible. Their knowledge, experience and willingness to collaborate have been invaluable. We are excited to be working with Motorola throughout the summer as their employees have graciously volunteered their time to work with each class two days a week. We will culminate the program with a presentation by each group to showcase what they have created during the course.
Program Overview Elementary students use littleBits electronic construction kits to assemble circuits and complete small tasks in order to learn basic skills needed for science engineering and problem solving. Junior High students work in teams with Lego Mindstorm robotic kits to learn basic programming, engineering and technical skills that allow them to innovate and challenge one another in a competition at the end of the course. High School students design and produce their own creations on a 3D digital printer. Using a design thinking framework, they solve real-world problems using knowledge gained from research and real-world experts. They work collaboratively to develop prototypes which they construct, test and demonstrate at the conclusion of the course.
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CC Cove @65 Helps Fund Key Programs This fall Cove concluded the Cove@65 Campaign, which raised $1.4 million dollars for five key program areas in the school. Below are some highlights of progress in those areas:
Comprehensive Health and Fitness Program – A designated former classroom has been converted into the school’s new fitness center. State-of-the-art ADA approved equipment was carefully selected with our student population and their unique needs in mind. This fall, we welcomed a new fitness instructor to work with Cove students to develop and implement individualized fitness plans. A series of exercise regimens were crafted for different age groups that help with cardiovascular exercise and resistance training.
Technology – New technological advancements have expanded the potential for children with disabilities to improve school performance, enhance organizational skills, work independently, and improve their quality of life. The school’s 1:1 laptop program has been expanded beyond high school to include junior high students. Elementary students now have access to new mobile devices, such as iPads, which enable them to access multi-sensory learning opportunities and built-in assistive technology. Transition and Placement Services – With the addition of a part-time job coach, Cove has been able to give more students the necessary support to assist in learning crucial on-the-job skills. Additionally, transition staff members
visited several post-secondary sites in Illinois and Wisconsin this past spring. Their goal was to learn more about the options available as well as build relationships with admissions officers. Financial Assistance – Funds from the campaign have been available to assist with tuition, hot lunches, field trips and after-school sports for students in need. Professional Development – Cove expanded professional education with a threeyear program enabling staff to access national leaders in their fields. This training is critical to providing the highest quality education for Cove students.
Congrats to our Grads Present and Past! The Cove graduating class of 2014 gathered in Cove’s gym for their graduation ceremony on June 6th. Each student had the opportunity to speak about the teachers and family members that inspired and encouraged them on their journeys. Some of the post-secondary programs that Cove students will be attending next year include: The University of Wisconsin - White Water, Indiana University, Southern Illinois University, City Colleges of Chicago, College of Lake County, University of South Carolina, as well as Military Service. Several students will continue their education at a transition program through their public high schools.
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On January 10, nine alumni who graduated from Cove in the last 5 years and pursued a diverse range of post-secondary programs were invited to share their experiences, lessons learned, advice, struggles and successes with Cove High School students.
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Memorable Moments of 2013-14
Three generations of the Mejia family medal at Cove’s third annual 5K, “One Step at a Time.”
Juniors and seniors receive training on how to use the local Pace bus public transportation system.
After successfully completing the Cove@65 Campaign, campaign co-chairs, Rob Flanagan and Dan Dickinson celebrate with Dr. Sally Sover.
Cove’s Big Buddy Program has a successful year with 22 pairs of high school and elementary buddies.
Cove’s Transition Department hosts an appreciation luncheon for its business partners who provide internships for students.
Cove gets a visit from Staley, the Chicago Bears’ mascot during our annual Health and Wellness/Hoops for Heart Day on April 10th.
Students stretch and warm-up before dance class.
Jonathan Groff, of “Glee” and “Frozen” fame, gives a special performance at Cove through a partnership with the Ravinia Festival.
Dr. Sally Sover provides guests an overview of Cove’s individualized educational program at one of three Open Houses held this year. Cove’s pom squad performs for parents. Junior high students play a counting game in math class.
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Cove Graduate’s Legacy Lives On Compassionate, enthusiastic, kind, helpful and sensitive. These are just some of the words used to describe Cove School 2013 graduate, Aaron Thal. Aaron came to Cove the summer after his 6th grade year. In a speech delivered last fall, he said talked about what it was like when he started at Cove. “For the first time in my life I was able to go to school where doors were open to me. The teachers taught me in ways that made sense to me. When I had problems they worked with me. I had so many resources available that learning wasn’t as frightening. Cove gave me chances to be part of things that I would never try before.” Among his many activities at Cove, Aaron joined the basketball team and was an active participant in the theater productions. He enjoyed photography and was often taking pictures at Cove assemblies and events. After a tragic accident took his life in March, Cove students, alumni, families and staff all came together with Aaron’s family and friends to celebrate this special young man.
Executive Director, Dr. Sally Sover remarked, “Aaron touched many lives here at Cove. He served as an inspiration to all who knew him.” To honor Aaron and his memory, Cove established The Aaron Ryan Thal Transition Scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to a graduating senior to be used towards his or her post-secondary education. The Cove Student Council and administration set criteria that would best honor Aaron and his memory. Together they decided that the recipient of the scholarship must have demonstrated excellence in academics, school and community involvement, character, and citizenship. He or she would have exhibited a positive outlook toward learning, building and maintaining positive relationships with peers, staff, and community. He or she would have successfully completed onsite and offsite internship(s) and is continuing his or her education after graduation from Cove. This spring, the senior class voted and the result was a tie. Two students, Jack Milanak and Cody Rosenberg, were voted by their peers as the first recipients of the new scholarship. On the last day of school Aaron’s mother, Norma, came to Cove’s end of year allschool assembly to help award the scholarship to Jack and Cody. She presented them with medals to be worn later that evening at graduation. Dr. Sover added, “Through this scholarship, Aaron’s memory and legacy will live on.”
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“Changing Tomorrow” Volunteers from Astellas Transform the Grounds of Cove
Top photo: Astellas volunteers pose for a group picture before getting started on their busy day of enhancements to Cove’s grounds. Top row left to right: volunteer works on a mosaic; a group paints fraction towers on the playground; planter benches are built in the front of the building; a map of the US takes shape on the blacktop; the athletic field is measured and marked for soccer. Bottom row: digging holes for outdoor benches; team project leaders from Astellas; outdoor classroom bench frames are built; mosaic artwork and stepping stones are created; volunteers board buses to return to Astellas.
Over 100 volunteers from Astellas Pharma brought “magic” to The Cove School on Friday September 27, 2013. Through a partnership with local non-profit Chicago Cares, and as a part of their “Changing Tomorrow Day,” Astellas volunteers spent the day beautifying and enhancing the grounds of The Cove School. The volunteers painted soccer and football lines on an athletic donated in 2012-2013 with a grant
from the Astellas USA Foundation. Volunteers also created an outdoor classroom, and painted interactive games on the blacktop including a large map of the United States. New benches and flower planters were built in the front of the building as a place for students to sit as they wait for rides home from school. Astellas volunteers also created mosaic stepping stones to be placed in the Cove Grove as well as fruit and vegetable mosaics to decorate Cove’s lunch room.
Dr. Sover commented, “We are so grateful for the ongoing partnership with Astellas and were thrilled to welcome their volunteers on ‘Changing Tomorrow Day.’ The work they did speaks to our values as a school and will enhance our students’ experiences.”
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Administrative Staff
Board of Trustees 2014-2015
Sally L. Sover, Ed.D. Executive Director
Dean Gerber President Scott Canel David Crosswhite Dan Dickinson Lisa Flanagan Rob Flanagan David Graff Joseph Hickey Michael Irgang Maureen Klatt
John R. Stieper, III Director of Education Mark Wall Dean of Students Stacy Post Director of Finance Alexandra Argentar Director of Development Jo-Ann Hoeppner, Ph.D. Clinical Consultant
Cove Chronicle Alexandra Argentar Editor Abby Lasky Art Director
Donald Law Michael Robinson Mark Shambo Linhard Stepf Sheridan Turner Ross Vangalis David Woodhouse Honorary Lifetime Trustees
Carey Cooper Edward Finnegan Edward S. Weil
Civic Advisory Board Charlie Bobrinskoy Robert Chodos Daniel O. Dickinson Eileen Frank Joel M. Friedman Susan Garrett Jeffrey A. Hechtman Marvin Isles
Eileen Kamerick Steven Koch Mark Koulogeorge Karen May State Rep. Elaine Nekritz William Pate John Pratt Michael Sachs
Save the Date For The Cove School Annual Benefit Saturday, February 28, 2015 InterContinental Chicago O’Hare
6:00 p.m. For more information, contact The Development Office at (847) 562-2100.
Academic Advisory Board Jo-Ann Hoeppner, Ph.D. Doris Johnson, Ph.D.
Pearl Rieger, M.A. Warren Rosen, Ph.D.
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350 Lee Road • Northbrook IL 60062 (847) 562-2100 Fax (847) 562-2112 www.coveschool.org
Robin Johnstone, Ph.D. Clinical Director
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 118 Northbrook, IL