Cove connection Fall 2014

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CoveConnection

Cove’s Mission and Vision Statements

A quarterly publication for the Cove Community

Fall 2014

Welcome to a New School Year!

The Cove School provides highly individualized education and life strategies for children with learning disabilities.

As we begin the 2014-15 school year, we are thrilled to welcome 28 new families into our community. Since 1947, Cove has served students with learning disabilities throughout the Midwest and we are extremely proud of the rich history, strong foundation, and bright future of our school.

The fundamental belief in a highly individualized education within a safe and nurturing environment is the cornerstone of our mission and provides the basis for the strength in our academic program. For 67 years, Cove’s leadership in the field of learning disabilities has reached thousands of children.

• Year 3 of the 1:1 laptop program was implemented at the high school level and a 1:1 laptop program was initiated at the JH level

The Cove School, a private K – 12 day school, is a national leader in educating children with learning disabilities. Cove was founded by pioneers in the field of learning disabilities in 1947. Cove provides children from diverse backgrounds with an individual educational experience in a safe and respectful environment. Cove’s dual purpose is to provide students with customized learning strategies to complete an academic curriculum and to facilitate the development of their social, emotional and self-advocacy skills. Cove’s approach to learning creates an environment for students to build the self-confidence necessary to make a successful transition to their community schools, or to make post-secondary choices.

• Art therapy was initiated • The individualized fitness program and trainer was started • There was an increase in after school programs and clubs at all levels • New and expanded relationships with businesses and foundations were established that included Ravinia, Astellas, Motorola, etc.

Today, we have 97 staff members serving 149 students. With our small class sizes and comprehensive staffing, we are proud of the individualized attention we are able to provide to all of our students. As the number of students who require a specialized education continues to grow, so does our urgency for continuous improvement.

THE

CoveConnection

The Cove Connection is a quarterly publication circulated to parents of the Cove community.

The content is provided by teachers, staff, and adminstrators. Photography and layout are handled by Abby Lasky, Development and

Last year, we implemented year 5 of our 5-year Strategic Plan that allowed us to accomplish the following academic goals:

Communications Coordinator. All questions regarding the Cove Connection can be directed to Abby at alasky@coveschool.org, or by calling (847)562-2100 ext. 2221. Your suggestions and

A new strategic planning committee met last year to look forward at the vision and goals for our next five years. Those members, representing our broad stakeholder group, included: Alex Argentar, Jody Berkelhamer, Betsy Crosswhite, Jan Diehl, Mark Fijor, Lisa Flanagan, Stacy Franke, Dean Gerber, Robin Johnstone, Maureen Klatt, Alex Laube, Don Law, Ruth Miller, Stacy Post, Sally Sover, John Stieper, Sue Turner and Mark Wall.

continued on back page

feedback are welcome!

Executive Director

Inside this Issue

1

New Administrator

3

Reading

8

Art Therapy

11 11

Hero in the Classroom 2

Clinical Connections 4

Physical Education 8

Calm Classroom

Director of Education

2

Transition Talk

Jr. High

9

Parent Association 12

LRC

3

OT/Nurse’s report 6

Science

10

Benefit

Technology 7

Music & Theatre

10

5

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From the Desk of the Director of Education

By John R. Stieper, III

The school year is off to a great start. Fall is officially here and it is hard to believe we are entering our second full month of school.

Now that the school year is in full swing, it gives me even greater joy to see how students have formed new friendships, expanded their social circles, and to see how really excited they are about learning.

September has been a very eventful month.

Here are a few highlights: Parent/Guardian Night, September 11, was well attended. It was a pleasure to see so many parents and guardians. Staff commented on how much they enjoyed spending time with you and sharing information about curriculum and your child’s school day. Your support of our students, teachers, and our school is greatly appreciated.

Per Cove’s technology plan, Cove’s 1:1 laptop program was expanded to include students within the elementary unit this year. All elementary students have access to Google Chrome books, Mac desktops, and iPads throughout their school day. The goal of this

initiative is to give students access to assistive technology resources and to better prepare Cove students with 21st Century skills.

Bingo Night, September 19, was well attended. Parents, students, staff, friends and family members filled Cove’s gym to play Bingo and socialize. Thank you to our transition team and Bobtail interns for serving ice cream, and Mrs. Kelley for her special cookies! Special thanks to Ms. Altshul and staff volunteers.

September 23rd marked the first Cove Parent Association Meeting and parent education workshop of the year in the media center. Mignon Dupepe (Cove’s Art Therapist) shared how Cove’s therapeutic art program provides alternate pathways to facilitate students’ learning opportunities through creative expression. Please see Mignon’s article about this presentation on page 11 of this newsletter.

Lastly, Cove’s after school programs are underway. However, it is never too late for your child to get involved in after school programs

and social activities at Cove. Encourage your child to participate in the social events offered within each unit, such as the Elementary Junior High Halloween DJ/Dance Party on October 24th or the High School Halloween Party on October 31st. To learn more about current and upcoming after school programs and social events, please contact the main office at 847-562-2100 or email me directly at jstieper@coveschool.org.

I look forward to continuing our ongoing partnership with you and our staff again this year, to provide our students with the best educational opportunities and experiences. I encourage you to communicate often with your child’s teacher if you have any questions or concerns, and to be involved in your child’s education. Please feel free to contact me, by phone 847-562-2100 x: 2105 or by email jstieper@coveschool.org if you have any questions or need assistance. I also encourage you to get involved in the Parent Association, and I look forward to seeing you at Cove’s upcoming events.

Cove Teacher Laura Silverberg Receives “Hero in the Classroom” Award Congratulations to Cove teacher Laura Silverberg for being one of 16 area teachers to receive the Symetra “Hero in the Classroom” Award. Laura received her award in a surprise assembly at Cove on September 2, 2014. The award is made possible by Symetra, Gallagher Benefit Services and the Chicago Bears. Winners are selected based on their ability to make a real difference in students’ lives; to go beyond in their day-to-day responsibilities; and to help students build life skills. “Laura Silverberg has been a dedicated special education teacher at The Cove School for many years. Children are engaged in her classroom because she believes every child can learn. She never stops searching for the perfect program or curriculum that is going to make things click for each child,” said Laurie Giblin, the parent of a Cove student. “Through her perseverance and

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dedication, she not only helped him learn how to count to 100 despite significant learning disabilities, but add and subtract as well. His confidence and independence have blossomed in ways I never thought possible”.

Ms. Silverberg is one of 16 K–12 teachers in the Chicago area who will be honored for educational excellence in the Symetra Heroes in the Classroom program during the 2014 NFL season. Cove received a $1,000 donation for classroom

books and supplies. In addition, Laura received tickets to a Bears home game and was acknowledged during an on-field presentation at Soldier Field. When her name and The Cove School were announced over a loud speaker, Ms. Silverberg said she felt overwhelmed and humbled. She felt very proud of her accomplishments, and grateful for all of the opportunities that Cove had provided for her to flourish. “All of the people in my box at the game gave me a standing ovation,” Laura said. “It was an afternoon I will never forget.”

Nam Liber Tempor Cum Soluta Nobis

Check Out the LRC

By Regina Aniolowski, Case Manager/LD Specialist

Have you visited the LRC? The Learning Resource Center is up and running! We’re

excited to be supporting our students with an additional and intermediate learning environment when they need a short break from their classroom. Sometimes students need a place to emotionally regroup or a quiet place where they can work independently.

We all need a break sometimes and Mrs. Browne and I are here to provide academic and emotional support to students who use the LRC as one of their strategies.

We provide them with the resources they need and encourage them to return to their learning environment as soon as they’re ready.

One of our Cove elementary students was quoted saying,“the LRC helps me get back to class so I can learn.” A Junior High student said, “sometimes the LRC calms me down so that I can keep going on with my day.”

Mark Ditthardt Joins Cove’s Administrative Staff Cove welcomes Mr. Mark Ditthardt to our administrative team as Cove’s District Liaison/Admissions Coordinator. Mr. Ditthardt has a Masters degree in social work with additional certifications and endorsements as a School Administrator and Director of Special Education. For the last 26 years he has worked with the Winnetka Public schools, serving first as a school social worker then as the Director of Student Services for special education students in the district.

patient with me as I find my way.

What has been the biggest surprise for you that you didn’t expect?

Two things come immediately to mind:

What are your primary functions at Cove?

1. The students seem to be so happy at Cove. For the most part they move around the classroom with smiles on their faces and are at ease with both their peers and the adults. Many students have stopped in my office to introduce themselves and to find out a little bit about me.

Over time I will assume responsibility for the admission process for prospective students. I will also serve as the Cove liaison to the Chicago Public Schools. In addition, I will be working to develop communication to inform area school districts about the mission and services of The Cove School.

2. For a relatively small school there is a lot happening “behind the scenes” to ensure that the needs of the students are being addressed and that the school day is productive and safe. Teams of teachers and administrators are very actively meeting with students and with

What have your first few weeks been like?

I have spent much of my first few weeks learning about the routines and procedures at The Cove School. I have also been working hard to learn the names and roles of the staff and am beginning to meet students and parents. Everyone has made me feel very welcome and have been

one another to review every imaginable need and to make sure that the educational experience is as strong and supportive as it can be. The dedication of the staff is readily apparent and impressive in both its depth and quality.

What are you most looking forward to in your new position?

It is exciting to join a team of professionals who are making a difference in the lives of students. Nothing is more rewarding to me personally than feeling like I am contributing to a culture where students’ lives are changed and where a belief for the future is instilled.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

Biking, working in the yard or traveling.

Are you a Cubs or a Sox fan?

I’m a die-hard Cubs Fan! Wait ‘til next year!

Mr. Ditthardt lives in Arlington Heights with his wife Karen, who is an elementary school teacher. Mark enjoys bike riding, and along with his wife, recently completed a hundred mile ride in Wisconsin. Mark and Karen have two grown sons.

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Clinical Connections

By Dr. Robin Johnstone, Ph.D., NCSP Clinical Director

The evaluation of student performance is a major goal at Cove. At the beginning of each school year or upon entry to Cove, each student is administered tests in each domain of development to provide a baseline of performance for comparisons throughout the student’s academic career. Classroom teachers conduct weekly fluency tests in reading and math.

Summative evaluations of student progress in literacy, math, science and social studies are conducted and analyzed after each unit of study. In addition, at the end of every quarter, specific checkpoints in multiple areas of literacy and math are assessed and documented. Administrative staff and classroom team members review this data and collaborate on changes regarding a student’s instruction or program in a particular area if minimal progress is noted. Follow up meetings are conducted to assess the effectiveness of these changes. These procedures constitute level one of our school-wide assessment plan.

Any student who does not demonstrate satisfactory progress after this thorough analysis of instruction and programming, moves to level two of our school-wide assessment plan. At level two, school staff members, including additional specialists, confer in regard to the student’s progress. The emphasis is on the whole child. Diagnostic testing, a history of social and adaptive behavior development, as well as, the child’s health history, including medications that

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are administered, are carefully analyzed and discussed. The outcome of level two interventions is very individualized. For some students, additional assessments are necessary. For others, an entirely new

of this analysis may include specific and highly specialized evaluations, observations and data collection and further medical interventions. Any students referred to this level are monitored on a monthly basis until improvement is noted.

academic program needs to be developed.

Regular follow-up meetings are scheduled and changes in achievement are carefully noted.

Level three of our assessment plan is described as Cove Critical Care (CCC). These meetings are held on a weekly basis to follow-up on students that have demonstrated minimal or no growth in a particular domain of development even after additional interventions have been employed. Outside resources can be included in these collaborative meetings. They may include private and specialized practitioners, or members from the Cove Advisory Board. This, too, is a very individualized process. Outcomes

At the end of October, the Cove Leadership Committee will review all of our recent data that has been gathered on our current students. Various comparisons will be made and visual graphs will portray our student population across variables. This data will also be shared at the Cove Board Retreat on November 21. Our staff will continually be looking at new and improved ways to share this data in a meaningful way. At the upcoming parent conferences, you will be able to better understand your student’s strengths and needs related to the curriculum. We will continue to use this data to guide our instruction. So, the next time you hear, “I was being tested today,” please know that all of the testing contributes to the well established programs and services we plan on providing for each and every student at our school.

T rans i t i on T al k Transition Hits the Road

The Cove School Store Provides Multiple Ways to Learn New Skills

By Marla Altshul, Job Coach

By Luisa Rapisarda, Transition Specialist

Dr. Sover and Luisa Rapisarda are going on the road!

Last school year they visited three post-secondary programs including OPTIONS Transition to Independence, Brehm Preparatory School and Southern Illinois University – Achieve Program. Luisa also visited University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Edgewood College in Madison, WI. This fall, Dr. Sover and Luisa Rapisarda travelled to Boston, MA to visit Landmark High School. They went on to Putney, VT to spend two days at Landmark College, Professional Visit Days.

Looking ahead, they hope to fit in a trip to Arizona (preferably in the dead of winter in Chicago) to see Chapel Haven West and the University of Arizona-SALT Program as well as Lynn University and Beacon College in Florida.

Each of these visits provides us with valuable, first-hand information to share with our Cove families during the transition process about the programs and services available at these post-secondary sites. Additionally, building relationships between Cove and the admissions offices and staff will help support the transition process for many students.

Parent Education Series

By Christine Becker, Transition Specialist

Cove’s Transition Parent Education Series (PES) provides information about post-high school experiences and is intended to outline the Transition planning process for families. The PES offers opportunities to explore a variety of topics related to the Transition process, and to gain insight into the many factors that will contribute to and shape the student’s adult life.

A general overview of the four areas of Transition: independent living, social/ recreational, employment, education will be addressed during 2014-2015.

This year’s topics include: • Introduction to Transition • Post-Secondary Education Options • 8th Grade to High School Transition • Adult Services

Driver’s Education Course Students in grades 10-12 are eligible to enroll in the 3rd quarter course that is taught by a certified Adams School of Driving instructor. Behind-the-Wheel driving lessons are offered in the 4th quarter of the school year. SAVE THE DATE for the Driver Education program informational session on TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 6:30 p.m., at The Cove School.

At The Cove School store we believe it is never too early to learn valuable skills that will prepare students for life after high school. The school store is the perfect place for students in grades 8 – 12 to learn work ethics and to develop their work readiness skills.

The following are some potential “real life” skills that students will acquire from their school store work experiences: • Sales - Students will be responsible for selling the products in the store. Proper knowledge of the products is essential.

• Customer Service –Students will learn to always treat customers with respect and to be pleasant and courteous when answering customers’ questions.

• Pricing & Stocking – For all items, students will determine reasonable prices and properly mark, stock and shelve each item.

• Inventory Control – Students will learn how to take inventory so that the store will be well stocked.

• Attendance – Students will report to work on the days and times per the school store schedule.

Organizing in Homeroom

By Alex Laube, Math Resource Specialist

In the Cove High School, students are starting and ending their days on a positive note. Based on the success of the Homeroom and Learning Coach program at the Junior High and Elementary level, the Cove High School has implemented a Homeroom and Learning Coach program of its own this year, offering a morning Homeroom daily from 8:30-8:45 and an afternoon Homeroom from 3:15-3:30 on

Monday through Wednesday, and Friday.

In their homeroom, high school students work with their learning coaches to get organized for the day, check in with their case managers, and report to their academic teachers for additional academic assistance before classes start. In the first days of the program, the learning coaches worked with students individu-

ally to determine a system for recording assignments, set up binders, folders for each class, and help students with using and organizing their lockers. Now, a few weeks into the program, both the high school teachers and students are enjoying the positive impact of the Homeroom and Learning Coach program, spending less class time organizing materials and more class time teaching and learning.

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Backpack Strategies for Parents and Students Submitted by Megan Sulinski, Occupational Therapist Source: American Occupational Therapy Association

Aching backs and shoulders? Tingling arms? Weakened muscles? Stooped posture? Does your child have these symptoms after wearing a heavy school backpack? Carrying too much weight in a pack or wearing it the wrong way can lead to pain and strain. Parents can take steps to

by using both straps. Wearing a pack slung over one shoulder can cause a child to lean to one side, curving the spine and causing pain or discomfort.

• Select a pack with well-padded shoulder straps. Shoulders and necks have many

Nurse’s Notes

By Patti Lubin, School Nurse, RN

What You Need to Know About Flu Prevention After reading about the latest virus to be in the area, Enterovirus D68 (EVD68), and knowing that the seasonal influenza season will be upon us, I wanted to review habits that may help us stay healthy.

1. Wash hands often with soap and water, for 15-20 seconds. Believe it or not, the Happy Birthday song works well for the 15-20 seconds.

2. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Remember, sneezing into your elbow area is better than sneezing into your hands to decrease spread of germs.

3. Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as door knobs, toys and faucets.

help children load and wear backpacks the correct way to avoid health problems.

Loading a Pack • A child’s backpack should weigh no more than about 10% of his or her body weight.

This means a student weighing 100 pounds shouldn’t wear a loaded school backpack heavier than about 10 pounds.

• Load heaviest items closest to the child’s back (the back of the pack).

• Arrange books and materials so they won’t slide around in the backpack.

• Check what your child carries to school and brings home. Make sure the items are necessary for the day’s activities.

• If the backpack is too heavy or tightly packed, your child can hand carry a book or other item outside the pack.

• If the backpack is too heavy on a regular basis, consider using a book bag on wheels if your child’s school allows it.

s for ts

Wearing a Pack

blood vessels and nerves that can cause pain and tingling in the neck, arms, and hands when too much pressure is applied.

• Adjust the shoulder straps so that the pack fits snugly on the child’s back. A pack that hangs loosely from the back can pull the child backwards and strain muscles.

• Wear the waist belt if the backpack has one. This helps distribute the pack’s weight more evenly.

• The bottom of the pack should rest in the curve of the lower back. It should never rest more than four inches below the child’s waistline.

• School backpacks come in different sizes for different ages. Choose the right size pack for your child as well as one with enough room for necessary school items.

Need More Information?

For more facts on backpack safety, contact Cove’s occupational therapists, Megan Sulinski msulinski@coveschool.org, or Katie Puszynski kpuszynski@coveschool.org.

• Distribute weight evenly

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ened muscles? Stooped posture? Does your child ol backpack? Carrying too much weight in a pack or

4. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Avoid kissing, hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are ill. Also, if you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting ill as well. If possible, stay home from work and school to prevent the spread of illnesses.

5. Practice good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, drink plenty of fluids, eat nutritious foods and manage your stress.

6. Lastly, to prevent the seasonal flu, please consider getting vaccinated each year. True influenza has been described as feeling fine one minute and the next feeling just awful—chills, body aches, headaches, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, cough and tiredness. Some people can run a high fever, others get other symptoms.

Sometimes influenza can lead to pneumonia, sinus and ear infections.

It is a lot to think about. Let’s prevent it!

Just a reminder, Cove is a peanut free school.

Technology

Technology Update

By Mark Fijor, Technology Coordinator

With the introduction of Chromebook laptops in the elementary unit this fall, The Cove School is now entirely 1:1. In addition to personal laptops, each classroom has access to iPads and iMac desktop computers creating what we refer to as a “Blended Device Environment”. We believe this type of environment helps to promote college and career readiness where they may be asked to use multiple tools in their career or post secondary education.

While having multiple devices allows us better meet the needs of every student, it can present several challenges. The first

challenge is that each device is different.

There is no consistent user experience.

This means that for each device a student uses, the software and hardware may work in different ways. In order to provide students with skills that can transfer between

devices, we have begun using Google Apps for Education in each unit.

Google Apps for Education (GAFE) acts as replacement of software that students have used in the past such as Microsoft Office, but has many more affordances.

GAFE is completely web-based and can be used on any device for “any place, any-time” learning. Documents created in Google can be easily shared with teachers for feedback. Conversely, it is easy for teachers to create and share differentiated assignments with students using Google Classroom.

Students with a MacBook or MacBook Air are able to use the Google Chrome browser to sign-in and access their Google Drive.

Students with Chromebooks are logged in automatically to their Google account. In both cases, we are able to remotely install applications and extensions to increase functionality and accessibility including the assistive technology tool Read&Write.

ponent of our on-going commitment to ensuring student safety and privacy.

The second challenge was the need to train staff. This fall, we have begun offering an assortment of professional development opportunities focused on integrating technology and 21st century skills such as: communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creation. In addition, staff will be participating in a new “Integrated Professional Development” series that leverages the knowledge and expertise of Cove staff and specialists and looks at topics in through an interdisciplinary lens.

It truly has been an exciting start to the year and we look forward to continuing to evaluate our program as part of our Technology Plan for 2015-2018. Please contact Mark Fijor at mfijor@coveschool.org if you have any questions.

Having students be able to access the internet using their Google account also allows the school to monitor and filter content on the web. This is just one com-

Assistive Technology

By Ruth Miller, Assitive Technology Coordinator

Start the new school year off with a “virtual” library card for your student! Get a free membership to Bookshare (www.

Bookshare.org) and your student can access free eBooks on their laptop, desktop, Chromebook, iPad or other tablet or smart phone. Free and low cost apps and software are available to read the books aloud

with your choice of speed and voice. Bookshare has a collection of over 300,000 ebooks including fiction, non-fiction and textbooks. Go to https://www.bookshare.org/_/aboutUs/ memberStories for video profiles, testimonials and success stories.

Need help?

Contact Ruth Miller, AT Coordinator at rmiller@coveshool.org or 847-562-2100 ext. 211.8.

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Elementary Read-in

By Stacy Franke, Elementary Case Manager

The elementary students participated in their first two read-in sessions on August 29th and September 26th. This year, the students are learning about the elements of art through picture books. The first two sessions focused on creating lines or using lines to create texture and form.

During the first read-in, with the help of employees from Camping World, we brought to life: Where the Wild Things

Are; The Girl who Loved Wild Horses; and Mirret on the High Wire. The kids created art projects using colored construction paper to demonstrate various types of lines including textured, curved, angled, and directional line patterns.

During the second read-in, the books were read by volunteer Cove teachers, students, family, and friends. The books read were: A Tree is Nice; Down Comes the Leaves; and The Giving Tree. For every book read, the class participated in a project, then rotated to the next book reading session. We had stations where students traced and drew tree patterns, designed multiple tree trunk textures, and identified and colored leaves.

The elementary group will be participating in 3 more read-ins throughout

the year with the next one coming up on October 31st! We hope that this has been a new and spectacular way for our students to learn about art through literature. We hope to continue the excitement as we move forward with the help of our outstanding volunteers.

A special thanks goes out to Laura Silverberg for designing the read-in activities and to the volunteers for helping facilitate this wonderful learning experience.

Fall into a good book, read aloud to your child

Focus on Physical Education

Read aloud to your child Reading quality literature and nonfiction books help expand your child’s vocabulary. Children with more extensive listening vocabularies have an easier time understanding what they read.

Hello, my name is Rob Wachowiak. I am excited to introduce myself as the new Physical Education teacher here at The Cove School. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education from North Central College. Over the past five years, I have worked as a Program Assistant at an alternative school in Glendale Heights for students who primarily had behavior and emotional disorders. As a Program Assistant, it was my duty to aid the Physical Education teacher and the high school math teacher in everyday lesson planning and implementation. In addition, I also coached a variety of sports.

By Sue Turner, M.S., CCC-SLP Speech-Language and Reading Specialist

Read aloud to your child Encourage your child to be an active listener. Pause periodically and ask open-ended questions. Expand on your child’s responses. Suggest alternative possibilities. Ask challenging questions. The key is to ask questions that cannot be answered with a yes or no.

Read aloud to your child Children learn about story structure. This knowledge is helpful when the child reads. Children form a mental outline of the

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events and remember the details more easily.

Read aloud to your child Reading aloud exposes your child to sentence patterns and special uses of language that are found only in written text. This exposure helps not only comprehension but also speaking and writing abilities as the child’s skills develop.

Read aloud to your child Don’t let age get in the way of reading to your child. A vivid poem or magazine article counts. It is fun and you get to a share special time with your child.

The Cove Reading Team Karen Bellak, Mary Murray, Susie Sloan, Sue Turner

By Rob Wachowiak, Physical Education Teacher

Here at Cove, I look forward to getting to know and teaching each of your Junior High and High School children as individuals. I will be working closely with Mr. Bill Shipley whose role now includes offering our students a fitness based physical education class to help introduce and reinforce the importance of lifelong fitness skills and goals. I look forward to collaborating with our fitness team to coordinate Fitness Day and Field Day. If you may have any questions, comments or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me via email at rwachowiak@coveschool.com or call me at the school.

What I like about junior high: I like 7th grade because reading class is fun because you can read differed books. I also like art class because you get to do fun projects. I like social studies because we are learning about history. I like science because we are learning about habitats. I like recess because i get play with my friends!

- Lee

I like 8th grade so far. I like doing the groups and doing Science and SS. I like learning about the habitat and more about animals and learning about the globe and the earth and the states. I want to learn more about people and get to know them.

– Caroline

7th grade is going awesome so far because we are doing harder math and fitness. Fitness is really fun.

– Carlos

I like math. It is hard, but

I love P.E this year and i like the new P.E teacher and more people this year.

– Liam

It is going well so far for me.

– Timarcus

easy and making new friends.

So far in 8 grade I have liked fitness/PE. I like that we have been doing fun things like football.

– Will

I love 7th grade so far. I love fitness, math and SS . What I love about fitness is you get to use things you might not have seen, like the equipment.

You don’t see that stuff every day and it is nice to work out.

I love math. I’m so good at it so far.

Me and my classmates are working on millions and not saving when we are doing big numbers. I love SS the best. We are working on spanish explorers and its fun!

- A.J.

I really enjoy being in 7th grade because I like to read with my friends. I like recess and hanging out in the gazebo with my friends because it’s cozy in there.

- Morgan

I really like being in 7th grade because I’m learning new things. I like that I have a laptop to learn. I like using the fitness center.

– Jacob

I really enjoy being in 7th grade because I like working out in the fitness center.

I have made new friends in junior high. Ms. Diehl is the best teacher ever, and I even got my own laptop!

–Andy I really enjoy being in 7th grade because it is fun.

Reading and science are the best subjects in school!

Reading is cool. We read new books.

– Colleen

I like being in 7th grade because the fitness center is fun. I also like all of my classes and being able to go to the mall!

– Lindsey

The things I like about seventh grade are: I am learning a lot of new things and having new experiences. I am learning more about animal behaviors and math. I learned not to judge a book by its cover. One of my new experiences is playing football. I never saw myself playing football. My coach said that I have a good arm for football. That surprised me that I could play football.

Another new experience is meeting new friends by myself. Now I am comfortable talking to new people by myself without my mom’s help. These are the new things I like about a new grade.

– Jose

The best part of being in 7th grade is playing games in gym class. I like recess because I like being with my friends.

– Jared

8th grade is a lot of fun. I am beginning to like reading this year. The teachers are wonderful and my friends are great too. Math is my favorite subject. History and science are also great. In math we are doing different strategies for multiplication and in history we are studying slavery. 8th grade is starting to be a great year for me!!

- Lauren Rose

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Something New in Science

By Elizabeth Hanzel, Special Education Teacher, MAT LBS-1

Maker’s Studio is an after school club offered on Mondays. Grace Frantz and Elizabeth Hanzel co-teach this new, handson activity program. The first three weeks included an exploration of clay design and concluded playing with “Squishy Circuits”.

Using conductive and insulated homemade clay, students designed circuits that lit up led bulbs. http://courseweb.stthomas.edu/apthomas/ SquishyCircuits/ The fourth week was an adventure in competitive balloon jousting! Using safety goggles, balloons were taped to a tube, and flew across the string draped room. Creating thrust, flying balloons, and intending to pop a competitor’s balloon, is definitely the definition of Crazy Fun!

Music & Theatre

By Dorothy Jean Lloyd, Music Drama and Digital Photogaphy

Choir The Cove Singers are back and stronger than ever! Thank you to everyone who joined our forces – we are now 14 strong.

For anyone who has been thinking about joining our group, we accept new members throughout the year. Feel free to contact me: Dr. Dorothy-Jean Lloyd at dlloyd@ coveschool.org OR 847 562-2110. Please note the NEW phone number.

take place on our last first semester meeting in January and final meeting in May. Throughout the year we look for opportunities to sing at assemblies and morning announcements. If you have any suggestions or opportunities for The Cove Singers, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Currently we are getting to know all our members and have been singing everything from students’ favorite songs to our Veterans Day assembly song, ‘Thank You Soldiers’. Choir members suggest and vote on songs each semester, and we will also provide solo opportunities for all interested singers. Our end of term concerts will

Elementary Musical Save the date (Tuesday, December 9th at 7:00 p.m.) for one of the highlights of our ‘musical’ year. The elementary musical is a wonderful way for students to connect with story telling, singing, acting, and dancing.

Our show is prepared and directed by Stuart Seale and Dorothy-Jean Lloyd, choreographed by Krystle Kempen and coached by Mary Anne Belter.

Sharing techniques and strategies while tinkering with friends is a wonderful way to learn. This is a club that encourages and expects creativity while stirring up imaginations. http://pbskids.org/designsquad/build/ balloon-joust/

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The Adventures of Lewis and Clark is a lively and historical look at the journey westward by explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark. These two intrepid explorers are joined by a host of adventurous members of their expedition – called the Corps of Discovery.

Also accompanying them is a young, Indian woman guide named Sacagawea. Meriwether Lewis brings his black Newfoundland dog named Seaman – named for his bravery in the water.

Along the way, the explorers encounter grizzly bears, over 50 Indian tribes, dangerous water, and harsh winters. They had to forage for food. It was a difficult 2 years, 4 months

and 9 days, but to everyone’s surprise and delight the explorers returned home with a wealth of knowledge and experiences.

The Corps of Discovery was commissioned by president Thomas Jefferson shortly following the Louisiana Purchase, and consisted of military personnel.

Jefferson was influenced by the explorations of Captain James Cook in the Pacific Northwest. The president also wanted an American presence in the that area before Europeans could stake a claim. Lewis and Clark were given the task of charting, mapping the geological landscape in addition to documenting botanical, and mineral discoveries, thus enabling the expansion westward.

We ask that audience members bring a non-perishable food item to deliver to families in need over the holidays. Cove Kids Care is a way that our students and families can make a difference in the community.

By Mignon Dupepe, Art Therapist, MAAT, LPC

I had the pleasure of speaking at the Cove Parent Association meeting on September 23rd. The focus of my presentation was a description of what art therapy is and how it is being used to support our students and enhance their social, emotional, and academic growth. I have provided a brief summary for those parents that are interested in learning more about this new related service and were unable to attend the parent meeting.

According to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy is an established mental health profession that uses the creative process of art making to improve and enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well being of individuals of all ages. It is based on the belief that the creative process involved in artistic self-expression helps people resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, enhance cognitive abilities, reduce stress, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and achieve insight.

Art therapy is different from art education and school counseling. Art therapy uses art processes as a modality for personal expression, communication, evaluation and treatment. Art therapy treatment plans and interventions are structured around a stu-

dent’s specific emotional and academic goals.

Art education teaches technique and how to produce and evaluate aesthetic productions.

School counseling relies heavily upon verbal communication to help students understand their feelings and adopt socially acceptable behaviors. Art therapy is being incorporated into many of Cove’s social work small groups and classrooms to provide alternate or additional methods to support learning and achieve academic success.

The benefits of art therapy are numerous. Art therapy allows visual thinking-the ability to organize feelings, thoughts, and perceptions about the world through images. Significant to many of our students, the use of a nonverbal form of communication with art therapy can be a window to feelings and thoughts not accessible through language. Art making and art therapy is a sensory and active experience.

Manipulating clay for five minutes has been shown to reduce stress hormones! Art therapy provides an emotional release that alleviates stress and anxiety by creating a physiological response of relaxation. By creating something with our hands, the art making process of art therapy permits the opportunity to make something special and meaningful, to create

ART

Art Therapy at Cove

a record of feelings and perceptions that can be used to review later. Art therapy allows the chance to express and transform inner conflict, imagine new possibilities, and experience our selves in new ways in an enjoyable and meaningful way. Art expression is possible for everyone, no skill is required-just a desire to express.

Cove’s art therapy program is a new related service program. In order to receive art therapy services, a teacher or related service staff member must refer a student. Once a referral form is submitted and criteria have been met, the team makes a decision regarding the fit for art therapy services.

Just as Cove’s pioneers pushed the boundaries of conventional teaching methods in their early years, Cove continues that ideal and vision today with integrating new related services such as art therapy to our support services to provide alternate methods of achieving students’ highest learning potential.

I look forward to working with Cove’s teachers, related services, and parents to continue that tradition. Please feel free to contact me for further information or to answer any questions.

Thank you to the parent association for the opportunity to share this information.

The Calm Classroom

By Jody Berkelhamer, Social Worker, LCSW In September, Jai Luster of the Luster Learning Institute spent the day at Cove providing professional development to the elementary and junior high units on The Calm Classroom Program.

“Calm Classroom is a school-wide program that assists students and teachers in cultivating the attitude of non-violence toward themselves and others. Calm Classroom helps improve academic achievement and creates calmer, more focused classroom and school cultures.” (calmclassroom.com).

Teachers and/or support staff engage our elementary and junior high students in

short (30 seconds to 3 minute) focusing, breathing and relaxation techniques 2 to 3 scheduled times each day.

“The development of the Calm Classroom curriculum and school wide program structure has been influenced by relaxation response research and a growing body of research conducted in the field of developmental cognitive neuroscience. This research indicates a link between the implementation of relaxation response/mindfulness curriculums in school settings and improvements in executive brain function, memory, emotional resilience, academic performance, improve student behavior and reduced levels of

stress.” Source: Calm Classroom by Jai and Joy Luster of the Luster Learning Institute.

The program is being rolled out in the elementary and junior high units this year and will begin in the high school in the 2015/2016 school year. In September, Jai Luster of the Luster Learning Institute spent the day at Cove providing professional development to the elementary and junior high units on The Calm Classroom Program.

To learn more about the program, please see www.calmclassroom.com, or contact Jody Berkelhamer at jberkelhamer@coveschool. org. or (847) 562-2100.

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Continued from page 1 As we enter in the first year of our plan, I look forward to working with all of our stakeholders on the following goals:

I. Academic Program Cove will: A. Enhance our comprehensive assessment profile and develop a database that will provide opportunities for ongoing individual and group analysis B. Continue the development of a Cove-specific curriculum that identifies specific content, materials, and instructional methodologies to support the diverse learners at the school

1. Enhance the literacy program at the school 2. Enhance the math program at the school

C. Implement our current Technology Plan, evaluate the results and revise it at the end of Year 3 D. A ssess, analyze and possible increase student enrichment opportunities (i.e. electives, “extracurriculars”) that promote student strengths and leadership skills E. Strengthen the social/emotional program F. Develop goals, establish rubrics, carry out research, provide additional teacher training via professional development opportunities G. Continue with our parent support group as part of a broader Parents as Partners Education Series H. Further develop the ESY (summer school) program

II. Transition Cove will: A. Develop programs, activities, and a vision for post-secondary options which will ensure internal and external transition success and efficacy B. Create a vision for our alumnae program and implement it C. Develop stronger independence for each student to ensure success in the community

III. Faculty

V. Fiscal Integrity

Cove will: A. Recruit and retain the most effective faculty, staff, and administration as possible to support the goals of the program

Cove will: A. Ensure that the school’s cash balance is sufficient to sustain all operations of six months

B. Enhance professional development opportunities for faculty and staff

B. Develop a broad, diverse and continuing source of funding that includes a major gifts program

C. Support the integration of clinical services

C. Develop a planned giving program

D. Enhance our salary and benefit package that includes financial incentives for staff retention and non-financial benefits for staff Currently, our staff profile is as follows: Certified Staff • 7.2 - Average number of years at Cove for Certified Staff • 81% of certified staff have a Master’s Degree or Doctorate Teaching Assistants • 5% of teaching assistants have a Master’s Degree • 79% of teaching assistants have a Bachelor’s Degree • 32% of teaching assistants have a teaching certificate

IV. School of Choice Cove will: A. Obtain and sustain an optimum enrollment level of 145 – 150 students with a waiting list B. Double the financial aid pool over the next five years, and regularly evaluate its ability to meet the needs of the families C. Expand our community outreach efforts through the development of a formalized Outreach Plan D. Increase local and national awareness of our school E. Provide resources and programs for students with disabilities who are not currently enrolled at the school F. Ensure that our communication with all stakeholders remains highly effective at all times

D. Establish new and maintain existing relationships with lawmakers, state board of education and others to ensure equity of resource allocation E. Establish a long-term financial plan

VI. Governance Cove will: • Continue to develop and enhance Board membership to further Board effectiveness.

• Continue the development of our Young Professionals Group.

• Monitor the strategic plan on a quarterly basis and initiate a new plan at least every five years.

The committees that have been put in place to focus on these key strategic areas will be communicating our progress to you throughout the year. Much progress has already been made as you will see in the updates that will now be a part of our monthly newsletter communication.

The success of this year is one that is dependent upon the strength of the entire community. Our Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, parents, and students are extraordinary members of our community who are very dedicated and committed to each student’s success.

For 67 years, Cove’s community has worked together for the good of each individual as well as for the strength of the whole. As we embark upon this new year together, I thank each of you for your partnership with us and for your support throughout the year ahead.

Sincerely, Sally L. Sover, Ed.D. Executive Director

Cove Parent Association News

By Robbie Cichon, PA Co-President

Twenty-eight new families were welcomed into the Cove community with warm smiles and gifts provided by a Cove alumni parent, her daughter, and mother.

A special thanks to them for their hospitality to our new students this year, and for the past several years.

What is the Cove Parent Association?

The Cove Parent Association supports the students, families, teachers, and staff through volunteer service and fundraising.

We develop and organize activities to build community spirit and enhance the experience of our students socially, academically, and culturally. Our fundraisers help sponsor events such as the Cove Picnic, New Family Welcome, Potluck, Field Day and many more.

Mignon Dupepe, Cove’s Art Therapist, was the guest speaker for the first Parent Association General Meeting of the year.

She presented on how Art Therapy can support our students’ learning at Cove.

Thank you to Mignon for her very informative presentation and to all of the parents that joined us. We hope to see you at our next meeting in January.

Volunteers Needed: I’m in! Please Help by Volunteering!

Thanks to all the parents and caregivers who signed up to volunteer for one of our committees, this year. You can expect

to hear from our chairpersons prior to your event(s). We also invite parents to help lead some of our remaining events this year or to volunteer for an event as it comes up. Watch in the Cove Minute for volunteer opportunities or you can go to www.coveschool.org and click on the “Parent Association” link.

Family Potluck Dinner and Book Fair Thursday, November 20 Please join us for The Cove School annual Potluck Dinner and Book Fair on Thursday evening, November 20 at Cove. This is a favorite event of Cove students and their families! Each family brings their favorite entrée or side dish to share. After dinner, there will be entertainment provided by a local magician. The Book Fair will also be going on in the Media Center. This is a great event to get to know other Cove families. We will also be handing out the 2014-2015 Cove School Directory. Hope to see everyone there!

Maureen Klatt, Social Programming (mckklatt@aol.com) Kelly Coyne, Fundraising mandkcoyne@sbcglobal.net Jenine Buchanan, Committee Member hockey_12@comcast.net Tracey Redderoth, Committee Member redderoth@sbcglobal.net Coming Up: October 24 - Elementary and Junior High Halloween DJ Party and Carnival October 31 - High School Fall Dance November 2 - Cove Ladies Afternoon Out November 20- Annual Potluck Dinner and Book Fair December 12 - Staff Holiday Breakfast

Feel free to contact any of our Parent Association steering committee members, to volunteer or to suggest any new ideas you may have.

Robbie Cichon, Co-President prcichon@aol.com Betsy Crosswhite, Co-President thecrosswhites@sbcglobal.net

Mark your calendars for “Miracles Happen Here,” The Cove School Benefit 2015. Cove’s annual gala will be held on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at the Loews Chicago O’Hare (formerly the InterContinental Chicago O’Hare).

Funds raised from this event directly support your student at Cove and help the school provide the necessary tools for all of our students. It is an important evening for Cove, but also a fun and special night for you.

Saturday, February 28, 2015 Loews Chicago O’Hare 6:00 p.m.

Dinner, Silent and Live Auctions, Dancing

We are currently seeking corporate sponsors. Opportunities begin at $1000 and go up. Please contact Alexandra Argentar, Director of Development, at aargentar@coveschool.org or 847-562-2100 x2104.

The committee is beginning to solicit auction items. We are in need of sports tickets, memorabilia, vacation home stays, restaurant/hotel gift certificates and valuable items or experiences. Donor forms are available online at coveschool.org. Please contact volunteer co-chairs Betsy Ellen at besty.ellen@ gmail.com or Beverly Petersen at petersen-bc@comast.net, with questions regarding the auction.

We appreciate anything you can do to make a difference!