SEAPCO CONNECTIONS
Hovering over pictures within this newsletter will lead you to more information!
MODIFIED from: Harvard Business Review: Health And Behavioral Science by Alyssa F Westring April 20, 2021 Click on the title for the whole article
There’s No “Right” Way to Do Self-Care
In order to change what we do, we have to change how we think. By challenging your assumptions about self-care, you can find an approach that works for you.
3 tools that can help.
1. Define self-care on your own terms.
Given the abundance of advice about self- care, most of us are operating with a set of assumptions about what wellness should look like. But only you can determine what your mind, body, and spirit need to thrive.
2. Check for all-or-nothing thinking.
Notice how you think about making time for yourself. Do you assume that you need to completely overhaul your lifestyle? Noticing whether you’re engaging in all-or-nothing thinking is the first step to creating a more realistic mentality.
3. Seek opportunities to integrate.
Another mindset shift is challenging the assumption that prioritizing wellness is something that we must do separate from the other parts of our lives.
Taken from
The Center for Parent Info & Resources: Resources for Paraeducators Project PARA develops training materials for paraeducators and teachers who supervise them. https://para.myesu.org/
Ohio Partnership for Excellence in Paraprofessional Preparation (OPEPP)
https://www.opepp.org/
https://www.opepp.org/opeppprofessional-development-modules/ National Resource Center for Paraeducators.
https://nrcpara.org/
Are you looking for FREE resources online?
Check out this section of the newsletter each month. Here are some FREE MATH resources.
Funbrain has been helping students learn key math concepts and develop crucial skills since 1997. Students can choose from a slew of games. Why is it one of the best math websites? It’s all free! (Grades pre-K–8; free)
Numeracy Ninjas This is a free intervention tool designed to fill gaps in students’ mental calculation skills and empower them with number fluency. Students can earn ninja belts of different colors for their skill level. (Grades 2–8; free)
Figure This! is a site designed to encourage families to practice math together. It includes fun and engaging math games and high-quality challenges. It even offers challenges in Spanish. (Grades 6–8; free)
Math Is Fun Find general information along with games and practice for a variety of math subjects, including geometry, algebra, calculus, physics, and more. (Grades 6–12; free)
MathTV Most learners do best when they can see a problem walk-through, step-by-step. This site features multiple example problems, with walk-throughs by three separate instructors (including one in Spanish). They offer some basic math but are focused on advanced subjects from algebra on up. (Grades 6–12; free)
Are you in need of professional development hours or would you like to know more about a particular part of your position? If so, we have developed a professional development listing for your convenience. Learn more here:
● The Illinois Principal Association offers FREE online professional development on various topics. Topics are updated on a monthly basis. Use the following link to learn more about the ELN Network: https://ilprincipals.org/eln/live-webinars/
● The Peoria County Regional Office of Education #48 offers both FREE and paid professional development on a variety of topics. You can view their offerings here:
https://peoriaroe.pdx.catalog.canvaslms.com/
● The Learning Technology Center of Illinois provides FREE professional development opportunities for various Google applications. You can find more information here:
https://www.ltcillinois.org/onlinecourses/
● The Illinois State Board of Education provides a variety of professional development offerings for FREE. Learn more here:
https://www.isbe.net/Pages/Special-Education-ProfessionalDevelopment.aspx?
● IESE Network- Illinois Elevating Special Education Network
Vol. 1 Issue 1
Director’s Message
Hello, fall… October will be filled with pumpkins, Halloween, football, costumes, and everything pumpkin spice. Sweater weather can’t come soon enough! A new season is ahead of us, meaning we’re almost a quarter through the school year. IEP season is underway and parent-teacher conferences are quickly approaching.
Some highlights from September events and reminders for this coming month:
• The “LAA” group met - this is made up of the Limestone area administration where they discuss events and happenings in their districts.
• I have had many visits to Bartonville Grade School The “center-based committee” toured BGS after the last board meeting. Thanks for letting us visit and showcase all of our hardworking students and staff.
• Meetings were held to review our crisis management plan. We added a walkie-talkie upstairs in Lisa/Sheila’s office and another one in Nanette’s office. Each room and office should have a red folder hanging by the door with a red paper, green paper, and the crisis plan. Teachers should add their class list and parent contact information in the folder.
• The State Fire Marshal came for our yearly building check. We will let you know if there is something in your office or class space that needs correction.
• The fire drill from 9/22 was canceled due to rain. A new date coming soon.
• I was able to attend the Threat, Assessment, Mitigation, and Response Association (T.A.M.R.A) conference in East Peoria and sat in on sessions with George McKenna from our ROE on-site assessment safety checks.
• The “celebration committee” will be holding its first meeting on 9/27/23. This is a new committee for central office/SA staff that is based in our office. Our goal for the group is to plan how we can better celebrate our staff, and their achievements, and create more opportunities to connect with colleagues.
• Goal meetings are underway! Don’t forget to brush up on your evaluation tool. It is in our SEAPCO drive You can also reach out to your administrator for a copy.
• A few of our SEAPCO administrators participated in the LCHS Homecoming parade! You may have seen the SEAPCO truck make its way through the streets of Bartonville. We look forward to making this a tradition and extending the invite next year!
• On September 28th, I got the opportunity to speak at ICC for one of their undergrad classes called “Diverse Learners in the Classroom”. It was wonderful to connect with our community partners and develop those relationships.
• SEAPCO office is closed on October 9th for Columbus Day.
• October 13th is the next SEAPCO Board meeting - the location has been changed to Farmington HS. It will not be held at SEAPCO.
• Don’t forget we have a new staff attendance line - (309) 697-0886. This will ring directly to Rosemary and her voicemail!
• IEP goal updates are due at the end of the quarter. See your SEAPCO admin for support!
Kerry Klesath , SEAPCO Director
“A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.” John Lennon
Tom O’Dea has served SEAPCO for 5 years as our building custodian. He is a great asset to our staff!
Tom is always willing to help any of our employees when he can. He takes great pride in maintaining our building and his contributions to our team have been invaluable, in which we are all grateful for his dedication and hard work. We are so thankful to have someone like Tom on our team who is willing to go above and beyond to achieve great success for SEAPCO! Thank you, Tom, as you celebrate National Custodian Day. Be sure to show your appreciation to the custodian/maintenance staff in your building.
Vol. 1 Issue 2 OCT. Birthdays Ami Naumann 1 National Custodian Day 2 Brooke D Mair 4 Casey Crull 6 Amber Nelson 6 Kristy Willis 6 Meghan Tejera 9 Brenna Skauge 13 Jodie L Vanderheydt 13 National Boss’ Day 16 Allison Borland 20 Jeanne Fields 27 World Occupational Therapist Day 27 Sheila Grashuis 29 IMPORTANT DATES Unified Sports Day @ FCHS 3 Unified Bowling Tournament @ Landmark Lanes in Peoria 7 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Research Shows that Laughter can Keep You Healthy according to the Mayo Clinic, Research has found both short and long-term benefits
Vol. 1 Issue 2
Laughter can increase oxygen to the heart, lungs, and muscles, increase the endorphins that are released by your brain, improve your mood and reduce physical pain.
COLD & FLU Season
Some myths and facts about immune-boosting nutrients:
Fact: Chicken soup can help you feel better. According to the National Institutes of Health, there are many healing benefits of chicken soup. Your favorite recipe likely has properties that fight inflammation, promote hydration and get mucus flowing. Drink plenty of liquids, such as water, broth or sports drinks with electrolytes.
Myth: Vitamin C can prevent illness. When taken before cold symptoms start, vitamin C may shorten the duration, but it doesn't keep you from getting sick.
Myth: Dairy increases mucus production. You may have heard that milk and other dairy products worsen congestion during an illness. Research has not proven this to be true.
These nutrients play a role in immune-boosting health:
• Beta carotene
• Vitamin C-rich foods
• Vitamin D
• Zinc
• Probiotics
• Protein
We want to share your stories!
You have:
Resources
Websites
Lesson plan ideas
Projects
General information… others might find useful
Please send it to Perry Miller , Director of Human Resources. Include pictures if available. Remember, if you send pictures, you must have permission to use them.
Click on Emojis for more information.
Occupational Therapy RESOURCES
TWINKL Occupational Therapy resources
The Top 7 Places to Find Free Pediatric OT Resources
Your Therapy Source
Your Kids: OT Make Learning Fun
Ultimate Guide for OT Resources for Kids
20+ Free Resources to Inspire your Occupational Therapy Activities for Children
Free Resources for OT, PT, & Speech Therapist – Resources on menu bar
LOTS of OT Resources
Thank you to every OT staff for evaluating and helping our students live independently and meet their goals (to develop, recover, improve, and maintain the skills needed for academic and daily living success)
Do you want a chance at winning a $25 Amazon Gift card? Send Perry Miller, Director of Human Resources a suggestion(s) for future newsletters. We want to include thoughts, topics, stories, and information that interest YOU! We will hold a drawing from all ideas submitted and the winner will be announced in the November newsletter.
RING THAT BELL!!!!
Kristen Arnold was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer after a routine mammogram in April She was busy planning her wedding then, so the doctors postponed surgery until after the wedding. She was married on June 4; h a mastectomy on June 7, and that began the "summer of suck" (as a friend called it).
Kristen then had a second surgery on July 5 to remove more lymph nodes as the cancer had spread more than the realized. She started radiation in early August (just in time for school to start) and finished her last round on Septem 19!
She got to ring the bell!!
WELCOME Yvonne Meyer
our new program nurse at SEAPCO Academy. She is currently working four (4) days per week. Yvonne would like to share with us that she was a pediatric nurse for 37 years. Even though it has been a tough season, she is a die-hard St. Louis Cardinals fan. She enjoys crafting, watching movies, and hanging out with her 3-year-old Chihuahua Milo! She is excited to be here. Welcome Yvonne!
To SEAPCO Colleagues,
Director’s Message
As we head into the month of November, I challenge you to stop and find the time to thank the people who make a difference in YOUR lives I am grateful to work with all of you and for the opportunity to serve our organization. I am thankful for a healthy family and friends to celebrate this upcoming Thanksgiving season with: GRATITUDE. Did you know that gratitude builds resilience? Gratitude shifts our mindset in the midst of stress! Practice gratitude… it builds strength and motivation!
A recap of some October happenings!
• Brimfield, Elmwood, Pleasant Valley, and Pleasant Hill hosted Jordan Toma who wrote the book, “I’m just a kid with an IEP.” Some of our SEAPCO staff got the opportunity to listen to his motivational speech!
• Our central office went through a mini audit with the Regional Office of Education SEAPCO - thanks to our office staff for all hands-on deck during the visit!
• Our board meeting was held at Farmington School District in their new learning lab research center! Our superintendents had the opportunity to tour the life skills programs out there.
• The first fire drill was completed - great work everyone! We had positive feedback about the new changes from our emergency plan.
• The administrative team was able to attend the IL Alliance of Administrators of Special Education (IAASE) annual conference in Tinley Park - looking forward to sharing all of the information and resources we gathered at the event!
• On October 30th SEAPCO hosted a SIS coordinator meeting It was a great opportunity for the different district staff to communicate and collaborate with each other on their student management systems.
• I had the opportunity to meet with a professor from Bradley University We had a brainstorming session on how to support one another to collaborate and prepare our future teachers for the real world!
• The Extended School Year (ESY) team is already starting to meet to plan for ESY 2024!
• Our SEAPCO central office and SEAPCO Academy held a potluck on Halloween
• First quarter completed - double-check that all IEP goals have been updated and sent home to parents
Upcoming November events:
♥ The November 10th board meeting time will be changed to 1:30 p.m. to accommodate the district’s Veteran’s Day celebrations
♥ The Triple I-school board convention will be held in Chicago November 17th-19th
♥ CAST will be hosting another SEAPCO office potluck on November 21st to celebrate all that we are thankful for before heading out the door for the holiday break!
Kerry Klesath , SEAPCO Director
Every day is a new opportunity to be better, happier, a difference maker, wiser, deeper, funnier, more encouraging, and supportive…EVERY DAY! DSMc
"Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom."
“Love
is when the other person's happiness is more important than your own.” — H. Jackson Brown Jr
November 2023 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 3 NOV. Birthdays Jamie Poorman 4 Makayla Ellison 5 Kristen Worlow 8 Amy Doman 10 Kristen Arnold 16 Shannon Trone 16 Addeline Stone 17 Christopher Tackman 20 Jeanette Bradshaw 25 Yew Min Arlene Yong 25 Holly D. Hocker 27 Margaret Rolando 30 IMPORTANT DATES November is National Gratitude Month National School Psychology Week 7-11 Veteran’s Day 11 National School Board Appreciation Day 15
National Education Week November 13-17
Grateful for every one of you!
Click on any gratitude quote below for additional information on the healthy reasons to be grateful. Research has shown that consciously practicing gratitude can reduce stress and anxiety Studies have found that a single act of thoughtful gratitude produces an immediate 10% increase in happiness and a 35% reduction in depressive symptoms
Motivational Speaker
Jordan Toma is pictured below with Kris Dutton. He wrote the book, "I'm just a kid with an IEP.” Many of our SEAPCO staff got to hear him talk to some of our partnering school districts - Brimfield, Pleasant Valley, and Pleasant Hill.
If you want more info click on the picture and watch this video.
of the October Newsletter was: Emily Lundberg for her suggestion of adding a joke in the newsletter. Sheis the recipient of an Amazon $25 gift card.
Look in this newsletter for the joke – send Perry Miller your answer – all correct submissions will be put into a hat and a lucky name will be drawn.
WELCOME Brittany Heidemann
Members of the CAST committee include:
Kerry Klesath , Clelia Palmer , Kris Dutton
Catherine Knecht, Nanette Shepard
Jodie Vanderheydt , Ashley Strausbaugh
Sheila Grashuis, Lisa Roberts, Jodie Askam
The purpose of this committee is to celebrate staff accomplishments, promote awareness days, arrange colleague get-togethers, and support our staff who may be going through a difficult time. (One example - we have had requests made to send a card or flowers to staff that may have had a family member pass away.) "
We will have a team email and a Google form for staff to get in touch with us when support is needed.
Brittany is a speech-language pathologist and transitioning to SEAPCO from OSF Healthcare. She enjoys exploring and implementing Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) options to help improve communication skills and providing Aural Rehabilitation services for those with cochlear implants.
Brittany enjoys reading, crafting, and spending time outside with her two little boys.
Brittany is excited to start with SEAPCO and looks forward to meeting everyone.
WELCOME Ella Brubaker
Hello! My names is Ella. I'm currently a student at ICC finishing up my associate's degree. I will then be attending Illinois State University next semester to continue studying Speech Pathology. I'm originally from Morton but now live in East Peoria.
She will be a paraprofessional in the ED I program at Peoria Heights.
WELCOME Amber Oliveri
My name is Amber Oliveri, and I have recently joined SEAPCO as an Occupational Therapist. I have recently moved to Peoria from Nashville, TN. I’ve lived in Nashville for 3 years where I received my Masters from Tennessee State University. Before Nashville, I moved my way up the east coast from Florida, to South Carolina, and finally to Maryland where I attended the University of Maryland for my undergraduate. I am not outdoorsy but my goal is to be more outdoorsy so if you have any good recommendations let me know. This goal will start after I survive my first Illinois winter.
IamveryexcitedtobepartofSEAPCOandI’mlookingforwardtomeetingeveryone.
Celebrating and Appreciating OUR School Psychologist
(click on the images� � � �)
THE RIGGS INSTITUTE: Changing the way people think about teaching WRITING, SPELLING, READING, AND THINKING
Intervention Central -This website contains a wealth of information on prereferral intervention teams, CBM, academic interventions, behavioral interventions, and more.
24th Annual IAASE Fall Conference
November 2023 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 3
November 2023 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 3
Dyslexia: Separating Fact from Fiction (Dr. Molly Ness)
Nov. 3 Noon-2 p.m. PD Hours: 2
Organization: The Specific Learning Disability Support Project
Event type: Virtual, workshop
Registration deadline: Nov. 1 Register here
IDEA & Advocacy
Nov. 4 9 a.m.-2 p.m. PD hours: 4
Organization: Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach Event type: Virtual, Training Register here
Behavior Assessment Training Conference
Nov. 6-8 8 a.m.-4 p.m. PD Hours: TBD
Organization: Behavior Assessment Training Project
Event Type: In Person, Conference Register here
Supporting Writing Learning Disabilities, Part 1: Interventions and Accommodations for Elementary School Students with Dysgraphia (Dr. Jennifer King) Nov. 8 1-3 p.m. PD Hours: 2
Organization: The Specific Learning Disability Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Workshop
Registration Deadline: Nov. 6 Register here
High Probability Strategies for Managing Classrooms:
Instructional and Environmental Considerations (Dr. Terrance
Scott) Nov. 13 Noon-3 p.m. PD Hours: 3
Organization: The Specific Learning Disability Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Training
Registration Deadline: Nov. 11 Register here
Introduction to SLD for General Educators
Nov. 14 4-5 p.m. PD Hours: 15
Organization: The Specific Learning Disability Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Dev Conversations
Registration Deadline: Nov. 10 Register here
AREA 3 COP: Differentiation & Adaptations: Reaching More Students in Your Classroom
Nov. 15 3:30-4:30 p.m. PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/ Professional Development Conversations Register here
Nov. 3 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. PD hours: 6
AREA 3: Special Educators Literacy Make & Take
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event type: In Person, workshop
Registration deadline: Nov. 3 Register here
A+ Virtual Office Hours
Nov. 6 Noon-1 p.m PD Hours: 1
Organization: Autism Professional Learning & Universal Support Project Event Type: Virtual Register here
The 360 Thinking Model: Breakthrough Strategies to Develop Independent Executive Function Skills
Nov. 7 5-6:30 p.m. PD Hours: 1.5
Organization: The Specific Learning Disability Support Project Event Type: Virtual Registration Deadline: Nov. 6 Register here
AREA 4 COP: Inclusive Practices & Differentiation
Nov. 9 3:30-4:30 p.m. PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Development Conversations Register here
REMOTE PDC: Self-Advocacy Through Student-Led IEPs & Review of IEP Laws
Nov. 14 3:30-4:30 p.m. PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Development Conversations Register Here
Strategies for Job Development and Job Analysis
Nov. 14 10 a.m.-2 p.m. PD Hours: 3
Organization: Illinois Center for Transition and Work
Event Type: In Person, Workshop Register here
The Impact of Significant Behavior Needs on the FBA/BIP Process
Nov. 15 3:30-4:30 p.m. PD Hours: 1
Event Type: Webinar
Organization: Behavior Assessment Training Project
Unified Sports Day • 265 students participated from 15 different classrooms in 3 counties • 50 high school volunteers • 20 adult volunteers • Thank you to Farmington High School for hosting the event! Upcoming Unified Events ♥ Saturday, Dec 2nd - Unified State Bowling Tournament @ Landmark Lanes ♥ Thursday, Dec 7th: Middle School Youth Summit ♥ Friday, Dec 8th: High School Youth Summit ♥ Mar 4th-8th: RESPECT WEEK ♥ Mar 8th: Unified Basketball Event @ FCHS Thank you to EVERYONE involved! We can talk making a difference or we can be a difference maker – that’s the Unified way! A Great Day WITH and FOR Great People ISBE November 2023 special education professional development opportunities. Visit their webpage for additional information on our projects and to learn more about these and other professional development opportunities.
Director’s Message
November highlights and December preview
• I had the opportunity to attend a 2-day principal evaluator training through ISBE.
• Many committee meetings took place – center-based, finance, ESY team, and we held the November board mtg.
• We celebrated Board Member Appreciation Day at the Nov. 10th board meeting and thanked our own SEAPCO Board for all that they do to support SEAPCO!
• I was able to visit with more of our schools - Norwood, Peoria Heights, Elmwood, and Farmington!
• On December 6th, the ROE hosted a Curriculum and Instruction Collaboration meeting at SEAPCO in the board room.
• Next board meeting is December 8th at 9:30 at SEAPCO
• On December 15th your SEAPCO Admin crew will be hosting Christmas breakfast in the SEAPCO kitchen - RSVP form coming soon!
• SEAPCO Academy and central office are in session the full week of December 18th through December 22nd. Students are dismissed at 11:30 on December 22nd. We have a full week of treats planned before kickstarting your break!
• With cooler temps this past week, just wanted to send some friendly reminders about winter weather.
o Be careful driving. Allow extra time getting to/from work, especially when it is snowing!
o Keep an eye out for ice and slippery patches in parking lots and walkways.
o Be sure to have necessary items in your car in the event of an emergency; water, phone charger, blanket, flashlight, ice scraper, first-aid kit, emergency flares, etc.
o Stay up to date on weather alerts and bundle up with gloves, hats, coats as appropriate!
• Subscribe for SEAPCO text alerts - we will push out closures for SEAPCO central office, RISE, and SA school closing this way in addition to email and news alerts.
• Please check with the schools that you work in for their school closure process and means of communication!
Kerry Klesath , SEAPCO Director
“Connection is why we’re here: it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” Brene Brown
Mrs. Shook's class at Pleasant Hill worked together to learn about what it means to be thankful. They created their very own turkeys in a speech and OT group this week!
The Hambrick Foundation awarded Kasey Miller, a $3500 competitive grant to assist in our Unified Sports Day program. The Hambrick Foundation grants fund projects that positively impact students and teachers alike.
DEC.
December 2023 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 4 SEAPCO CONNECTIONS
Kathleen Ward receiving her $25 Amazon gift card for sending in the correct answer to the November joke: She is pictured with Joe Bohannan, SEAPCO Admin. at Farmington. There were 5 correct answers submitted; the winning name was drawn by one of our Rise Classroom students.
Susan Crandell 2 Jennifer Ward 2 Stephanie McGinnis 4 Kathleen Marsh 8 Aimee M. Roy 8 Megan Garcia 10 Jennifer Brinkley 12 Carli Jones 12 Melanie JV Blair 15 Kimberly Strausbaugh 16 Emily Foster 17 Anne Dixon 19 Jessica Shook 20 Sara Rearden 21 Merry Christmas 25 Betsy Baker 26 Jessica Gagnon 27 Rebecca Baley 29 Kara Smith 31
Birthdays
CLOSED
SEAPCO
R to L: Kennedy, Jacksen, Charlotte, and Gabe
The Holidays are often over booked, short nights, busy days and lots of energy spent on others. All done with a sense of excitement and love. This month our focus is on “merriment” which some would call “happiness.” We have, previously, focused on the mental health benefits of being happy. PLEASE take care of yourselves and be MERRY/HAPPY.
Harvard
Cultivating Happiness
T.H. Chan School of Public Health Happiness & health
How to be happier: 13 ways to improve your mental health
Start Using These 7 Daily Habits to Boost Your Happiness
5 Ways to Practice Gratitude this Holiday Season
12 Ways to Make Merry During the Holiday Season
The holidays are a time to focus on the most important aspects of life. We take time out to be with family, share gifts, and give to those less fortunate. Whether intentional or not, feelings of gratitude are often woven throughout these annual traditions, and can impact our mental health in a positive way.
We know that gratitude helps us appreciate life, improve our health, build strong relationships and handle adversity. In fact, research shows having an attitude of gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness.
Two psychologists from the University of Miami asked research participants to write a few sentences weekly focusing on different topics. One group was instructed to write about things they were grateful for, a second group wrote about things that displeased them, and a third group wrote about things that affected them in general. The researchers followed the different groups for 10 weeks and found the group focusing on gratitude were more optimistic and felt better about their lives. The same group even visited the doctor less and exercised more. So how can you focus on gratitude this holiday season? Here are some simple ideas you can practice everyday:
1. Make a list of things you have instead of things you want This time of year is often focused on receiving gifts. To increase your gratitude, make a list of things you already have. Count your blessings and record how it makes you feel to have these things in your life.
2. Write a thank you note. The act of saying thank you can help you better appreciate the gifts you receive. In addition to gifts, try thanking someone for being a good friend or helping you in an intangible way. As your relationships are strengthened, your gratitude will also increase.
3. Meditate or pray. If you are religious, praying can often help cultivate gratitude and help us focus on things outside of ourselves. In the same way, meditating can help us to reestablish priorities and remind us of what we have to be thankful for.
4. Practice acts of kindness. The holiday season is a wonderful time to help others who are less fortunate. Volunteering, donating canned goods and toys, or baking cookies for a neighbor are simple and easy ways to show others that you care. As a bonus, while these acts of kindness serve others, they also help to boost our mood and gratitude.
5. Focus on your health. While you may have some health problems, mental or physical, focus on the positive aspects of your health. Are you able to get outside? Can you smell dinner cooking or hug a loved one? We often take our abilities for granted. Take time to be thankful for what your health allows you to do and not how it may be limiting.
Gratitude is about focusing on what we have rather than what we lack. In doing so, we can boost our mental health and help those around us. Work on increasing your gratitude over the holidays and into the new year.
December Joke: Which schoolteachers have the greenest thumbs? Send Perry Miller an email with your response (no using google) and be in the drawing for a $25 Amazon Gift Card.
Meet some of our new hires…
IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE BUSY… BREATHE!
WELCOME Alyssa Meehan
Hi everyone! I am Alyssa Meehan. I have been married to my husband of four years and a mother of two amazing beautiful little girls. When we are not busy at tumbling practices and competitions, we are taking family rides on our UTV. I am very excited to join the SEAPCO team at Farmington Elementary School!
WELCOME James Lynch
I have lived in Washington, Illinois for 11 years, coming here from Townsend, TN. I have 3 daughters: 20, 18, and 16; as well as 2 granddaughters; 14 months and 5 months. When I’m not working at CAT and SEAPCO I enjoy spending time with family and riding my motorcycles.
WELCOME Mike Mitzelfelt
Hello, it is nice to meet you. I am Mike Mitzelfelt but please feel free to call me "Mitz". I am married and live in Pekin with my lovely wife Kathy. We have a daughter who lives in Washington, IL along with our four grandchildren. My hobbies include fishing and all sports. My teams are the St Louis Cardinals, Chicago Bears, Illinois football and basketball, along with Bradley basketball. I have been a baseball coach for over 25 years of all ages from youth to adult including the fresh/soph coach at Midwest Central High School. I look forward to getting established at SEAPCO and over time contributing the best I can. I also look forward to meeting new work partners and establishing positive, long-term relationships
December 2023 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 4
SEAPCO CONNECTIONS
Two Retiring at the End of the Calendar Year
Tom O'Dea has served in custodial/maintenance for 24 years. He served the last 4.5 years with SEAPCO.
Lyn Suits has a total of 33 years serving as a paraprofessional, 30 of them with SEAPCO.
THANK YOU Tom and Lyn for being an important part of what we do for students, families, and our communities of learners.
Do you want to find information from a previous newsletter?
Rather than spend time looking for the correct month; ALL previous newsletters are combined into a SEAPCO Magazine. Each month this LINK (https://issuu.com/donnamccaw/docs/seapco_magazine) will get you the magazine; where you can quickly review all of the previous issues� � � �
When you see this symbol – it will be the link to the SEAPCO Magazine
The Christmas Tree by Robert William Service
In the dark and damp of the alley cold, Lay the Christmas tree that hadn't been sold; By a shopman dourly thrown outside; With the ruck and rubble of Christmas-�de; Trodden deep in the muck and mire, Unworthy even to feed a fire... So I stopped and salvaged that tarnished tree, And thus is the story it told to me:
"My Mother was Queen of the forest glade, And proudly I prospered in her shade; For she said to me: 'When I am dead, You will be monarch in my stead, And reign, as I, for a hundred years, A tower of triumph amid your peers, When I crash in storm I will yield you space; Son, you will worthily take my place.'
"So I grew in grace like a happy child, In the heart of the forest free and wild; And the moss and the ferns were all about, And the crain�ve mice crept in and out; And a wood-dove swung on my highest twig, And a chipmunk chatered: 'So big! So big!'
And a shy fawn nibbled a tender shoot, And a rabbit nibbled under my root...
Oh, I was happy in rain and shine
As I thought of the des�ny that was mine!
Then a man with an axe came cruising by And I knew that my fate was to fall and die.
"With a hundred others he packed me �ght, And we drove to a magic city of light, To an avenue lined with Christmas trees, And I thought: may be I'll be one of these, Tinselled with silver and tricked with gold, A lovely sight for a child to behold; A-gliter with lights of every hue, Ruby and emerald, orange and blue, And kiddies dancing, with shrieks of gleeOne might fare worse than a Christmas tree.
"So they stood me up with a hundred more In the blaze of a big department store; But I thought of the forest dark and s�ll, And the dew and the snow and the heat and the chill, And the so� chinook and the summer breeze, And the dappled deer and the birds and the bees... I was so homesick I wanted to cry, But pa�ent I waited for someone to buy.
And some said 'Too big,' and some 'Too small,' And some passed on saying nothing at all. Then a litle boy cried: Ma, buy that one,' But she shook her head: 'Too dear, my son."
So the evening came, when they closed the store, And I was le� on the litered floor, A tree unwanted, despised, unsold, Thrown out at last in the alley cold."
Then I said: "Don't sorrow; at least you'll be A bright and beautiful New Year's tree, All shimmer and glimmer and glow and gleam, A radiant sight like a fairy dream.
For there is a little child I know, Who lives in poverty, want and woe; Who lies abed from morn to night, And never has known an hour's delight..."
So I stood the tree at the foot of her bed: "Santa's a litle late," I said.
"Poor old chap! Snowbound on the way, But he's here at last, so let's be gay." Then she woke from sleep and she saw you there,
And her eyes were love and her lips were prayer. And her thin litle arms were stretched to you With a yearning joy that they never knew. She woke from the darkest dark to see Like a heavenly vision, that Christmas Tree.
Her mother despaired and feared the end, But from that day she began to mend, To play, to sing, to laugh with glee... Bless you, O litle Christmas Tree!
You died, but your life was not in vain: You helped a child to forget her pain, And let hope live in our hearts again.
SEAPCO Staff - Please don’t ever forget that YOU, like the tree in this poem - make a difference! You are the “tree” that gives hope!
The “tree” that gives joy!
The “tree” whose branches hold much weight and offer solitude and sanctuary!
It’s easy to feel frustrated and underappreciated; wai�ng to be no�ced; appreciated; valued – but you aren’t. We may not see or talk with every one of you in a year’s �me but PLEASE know, from the botom of our hearts – we value the difference YOU make every day with our kids!
Happy Holidays to Each of You and Everyone You Care About!!!
Director’s Message
Hello and Happy New Year – may 2024 overflow with wonderful surprises,
● The administrative team cooked a delicious breakfast for our central office and SEAPCO Academy staff this month - bacon, eggs, hash browns, and cinnamon rolls. We enjoyed seeing everyone and having some time together to visit before the holidays!
● On December 4th, Becky Howard and I met with staff from the “SLD Project” which is a federally funded grant project through the Illinois State Board of Education in partnership with Eastern Illinois University and Eastern Illinois Area of Special Education. This project aims to reduce the achievement gap and offers training and resources to meet the educational needs of all students with specific learning disabilities. We have great resources to share and looking forward to partnering with them in one of our SEAPCO districts.
● At the end of December, our central office staff took donations for the Bartonville Christian Church next door. Every year, we pick a family in need or an organization to donate to for Christmas. We chose the church next door as they have graciously given us a free space to use for our play-based team. With your generous donations, were able to gift them $350 to either put towards their food pantry or to a family in need.
● Thanks to everyone who donated personal hygiene or food items to the food pantry! The table in the hallway has been full on many occasions. Know how much they appreciate your kindness and donations to the food pantry!
● Subscribe for SEAPCO text alerts - we will push out closures for SEAPCO central office, RISE, and SA school this way in addition to email and news alerts.
○ To do this. Go to the SEAPCO website. Scroll down to the bottom. Click “sign up for text notifications.”
○ We’ve had 74 staff sign up - our goal is to get everyone signed up by the end of January!
○ Check with the schools that you work in for their school closure process and means of communication!
● Don’t forget to finish up your GCN videos if you still have some left!
Kerry Klesath , SEAPCO Director
Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much. - Helen Keller
“Patience is when you’re supposed to get mad, but you choose to understand.”
Anonymous
The answer to November’s joke:
Q: Which schoolteachers have the greenest thumbs?
A: The kindergarten teachers.
January 2024 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 5 SEAPCO CONNECTIONS Jan. Birthdays Michelle Sibley 4 Samantha Buwick 7 Toni Mae Pflum 9 Asia Goings 13 Dakota Roth 13 Haddock, Amy 16 Linda Tucker 16 Jason Pena 19 Rebecca Howard 20 Tara Williams 20 Rileigh Black 22 Jennifer L Hoben, 23 Lee, Jeannie L 25 Smith, Alice 25 Gustin, Stephanie 27 Benjamin Lainhart 27 Thomas O'Dea 27 Jennifer Williams-Hogsett 27 Carol Street 31 Jennica Taggart 31 We’d like to take this opportunity to wish you the best for the upcoming year and to remind you that we truly care about each one of you. Let’s start 2024 off with a spirit of appreciation and the strength to confidently conquer whatever the new year may bring
PD Offerings
January 2024 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 5
January /February 2024 Special education professional development opportunities, workshops, & conferences
ISBE is delighted to announce upcoming professional learning opportunities that are offered through our technical assistance and professional development programs. Visit our webpage for additional information on our projects and to learn more about these and other professional development opportunities
We are looking forward to these upcoming annual conferences and symposiums. Put these dates on your calendar and be on the lookout for additional information soon.
• The Specific Learning Disability Support Project Annual Conference | March 18-19, 2024
• Autism Training and Technical Assistance Project and Autism Professional Learning and Universal Supports Project Annual Autism Conference | April 3, 2024
• Illinois Center on Transition and Work Annual Symposium | April 24-26, 2024
• Special Education and Leadership Academy and ISBE Annual Special Education Directors Conference | June 10-11, 2024 (tentative)
School Year 2023-24 Assistive Technology Trainings PD Hours: 1-3 or Full Day
Organization: Infinitec Event Type: Virtual or In Person
rJan. 9 |3:30-4:30 p.m. Remote PDC: Response to Intervention
Progress Monitoring & Assessment
PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Development
Conversations
Jan. 10 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. Area 3 CoP: Self-Care for the Educator PD
Hours: 1 Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Development
Conversations
Jan. 11 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. Area 4 CoP: Collaboration in the Classroom
PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Development
Conversations
Jan. 12 | Noon-1 p.m. SELA Zoom at Noon: Early Choices PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Special Education Leadership Academy
Event Type: Virtual, Webinar
Registration Deadline: Jan. 5
Jan. 16 | 9 a.m.-2 p.m. The Essentials of Developing a Defensible Transition Plan for Special Education Students (Christina Sepiol) PD
Hours: 1 Admin Acad Credit
Organization: Illinois Special Education Leadership Academy
Event Type: Virtual, Training
Registration Deadline: Jan. 8
Jan. 16 | 10-11 a.m. Transition to College: Preparing Students with Autism to Navigate the Postsecondary Terrain
PD Hours: 1
Organization: Autism Training and Technical Assistance
Event Type: Virtual, Webinar
Jan. 18 | 3:30-4:30 p.m. Area 2 CoP: Universal Design for Learning PD
Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: Virtual, Community of Practice/Professional Development
Conversations
Jan. 19 | Noon-2 p.m. Unpacking the Reading Rope: Focusing on the Bottom Strands (Dr. Molly Ness) PD Hours: 2
Organization: Illinois SLD Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Training
Jan. 24 | 3:30-5:30 p.m. Review of FBA/BIP Best Practices and Replacement Behaviors PD Hours: 2
Organization: Behavior Assessment Training Project
Event Type: Virtual, Webinar
Jan. 26 | 9 a.m.-Noon Accommodations, Modifications, & Inclusive
Classrooms PD Hours: 3
Organization: Illinois Elevating Special Educators Network
Event Type: In Person, Training
Registration Deadline: Jan. 19
Jan. 30 | Noon-3 p.m. Word Problems? No Problem! (Dr. Sarah Powell)
PD Hours: 3
Organization: Illinois SLD Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Training
Jan. 31 | Noon-1 p.m. SELA Zoom at Noon: Behavior Assessment Training (BAT) Project PD Hours: 1
Organization: Illinois Special Education Leadership Academy
Event Type: Virtual, Webinar Registration Deadline: Jan. 24
Feb. 9 | 9-11 a.m. Unpacking the Reading Rope: Focusing on the Top Strands (Dr. Molly Ness) PD Hours: 2
Organization: Illinois SLD Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Training
Marking Work-Based Learning REALLY Work! Planning Instruction in School and Community Work Settings
Organization: Illinois Center for Transition and Work
Event Type: In Person, Workshop
• Northern Illinois Workshop (DeKalb) Feb. 9 | 12:30-3:30 p.m. Registration Deadline: Jan. 25
• Central Illinois Workshop (Springfield) Feb. 20 |12:30-3:30 p.m. Registration Deadline: Feb. 5
• Southern Illinois Workshop (Centralia)
Feb. 29 | 12:30-3:30 p.m. Registration Deadline: Feb. 14
Feb. 29 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach: Early Intervention Pre-Conference
Organization: Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach
Event Type: In Person, Conference/Symposium
March 18-19 | 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. EmpowerED: Serve, Lead, Deliver (2nd Annual Illinois SLD Support Project Annual Conference) PD Hours: Up to 14
Organization: Illinois SLD Support Project
Event Type: In Person, Conference/Symposium
Registration Deadline: March 13
April 3 | Time: TBD PD Hours: TBD Bridging Gaps, Empowering Educators Annual Autism Conference
Organization: Autism Training and Technical Assistance & Autism Professional Learning and Universal Support Project
Event Type: In Person, Virtual, Conference/Symposium
April 25-26 | 8:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m., 8:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. ICTW Symposium
PD Hours: Up to 9.25
Organization: Illinois Center for Transition and Work
Event Type: In Person, Conference/Symposium
SEAPCO CONNECTIONS
Enjoy your moments, for they quickly become minutes, becoming hours…
PD Offerings for February – April 2024
Special education professional development opportunities, workshops, & conferences
ISBE is delighted to announce upcoming professional learning opportunities that are offered through our technical assistance and professional development programs. Visit our webpage for additional information on our projects and to learn more about these and other professional development opportunities
Save the Dates!
We are looking forward to these upcoming annual conferences and symposiums. Put these dates on your calendar and be on the lookout for additional information soon.
• The Specific Learning Disability Support Project Annual Conference | March 18-19, 2024
• Autism Training and Technical Assistance Project and Autism Professional Learning and Universal Supports Project Annual Autism Conference | April 3, 2024
• Illinois Center on Transition and Work Annual Symposium | April 24-26, 2024
• Special Education and Leadership Academy and ISBE Annual Special Education Directors Conference | June 10-11, 2024 (tentative)
School Year 2024 Assistive Technology Trainings PD Hours: 1-3 or Full Day
Organization: Infinitec Event Type: Virtual or In Person
Feb. 9 | 9-11 a.m. Unpacking the Reading Rope: Focusing on the Top Strands (Dr. Molly Ness)
PD Hours: 2
Organization: Illinois SLD Support Project
Event Type: Virtual, Training
Marking Work-Based Learning REALLY Work! Planning
Instruction in School and Community Work Settings
Organization: Illinois Center for Transition and Work
Event Type: In Person, Workshop
• Northern Illinois Workshop (DeKalb)
Feb. 9 | 12:30-3:30 p.m. Registration
Deadline: Jan. 25
• Central Illinois Workshop (Springfield)
Feb. 20 |12:30-3:30 p.m. Registration
Deadline: Feb. 5
• Southern Illinois Workshop (Centralia)
Feb. 29 | 12:30-3:30 p.m.
Registration Deadline: Feb. 14
March 18-19 | 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. EmpowerED: Serve, Lead, Deliver (2nd Annual Illinois SLD Support Project Annual Conference) PD Hours: Up to 14
Organization: Illinois SLD Support Project
Event Type: In Person, Conference/Symposium
Registration Deadline: March 13
April 3 | Time: TBD PD Hours: TBD Bridging Gaps, Empowering Educators
Annual Autism Conference
Organization: Autism Training and Technical Assistance & Autism Professional
Learning and Universal Support Project
Event Type: In Person, Virtual, Conference/Symposium
April 25-26 | 8:30 a.m.-4:45 p.m., 8:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m. ICTW Symposium PD
Hours: Up to 9.25
Organization: Illinois Center for Transition and Work
Event Type: In Person, Conference/Symposium
Feb. 29 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach: Early Intervention Pre-Conference
Organization: Illinois School for the Deaf Outreach
Event Type: In Person, Conference/Symposium
All past newsletters can be found at:
February 2024 Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 6
Director’s Message
Hello and Happy March to all of my SEAPCO Family,
• ESY planning is underway. Thanks to our leaders for helping with all the preparation that goes into summer school. We will be back at Pleasant Valley again, but Fridays will be added back to the calendar. PV wanted to allow their staff access to the building earlier in the summer to give them time to prep their classrooms. Our ESY at PV will run from June 12th to July 12th. Our HS/senior ESY will run for 10 days at SEAPCO Central Office.
• Our mentor and mentee group met for some PD, pizza, and collaboration time. Thank you to all those mentors who spend additional time ensuring our new staff feel welcomed. We appreciate all that you do!
• Our maintenance grant was approved by ISBE so you may see some new projects starting over spring break around the building…new locks on doors, window replacements, floors, lights, etc. We also received grant money through the Peoria ROE and look forward to replacing our camera system on the SEAPCO Academy side.
• I had the opportunity to attend a “School Reunification Training” hosted by the Peoria ROE in collaboration with a speaker from the “I Love You Guys” Foundation. We look forward to taking the information we learned and revisiting our crisis plans for future improvements. Check out their website here, https://iloveuguys.org/
• With this 3rd quarter ending soon, don’t forget to update those IEP goals!
• The BOC meeting will be held on March 8, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. at SEAPCO Central Office - please note the time change! We wanted to allow district staff to go to the Unified Basketball game at Farmington High School that morning.
• Spring break is on the horizon! Our office will be closed from March 25th through April 1st. We will be back in the office on Tuesday, April 2nd. Please remember that the alarm system will be on during the break and the building will be closed. We will have some building projects/construction going on over break so please be respectful that it is much easier to get those things done when the building is empty.
• Last but not least, thank you to every single one of you for the important and often challenging difference you make in each other’s lives and the lives of our students and their families!
Kerry Klesath , SEAPCO Director
“May your day be touched by a bit of Irish luck, brightened by a song in your heart, and warmed by the smiles of the people you love.”
March’s Riddle: Which crayon is a cat’s favorite?
MARCH
World Poetry Day March 21, 2024
Remember to contact Perry Miller with your answers to be eligible for the $25 Amazon gift card.
There were many close answers for the February riddle but no winners� � �
The February riddle was: Why did the student bring a ladder to school?
The answer was: "They heard it was a high school."
March Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 7 SEAPCO CONNECTIONS
Birthdays! Laurel Leadley 5 Jennifer Martinez 5 Hannah Bordner 8 Jane Haeffele 10 Lisa K Gerontes -Bowe 11 Catherine Knecht 11 Sarah E. Wyant 13 Nathan Darko 14 Julie Groeper 14 Laura L. Guilfoyle 14 Shundell Broomfield 18 Anita Bauswell 21 Yvonne Meyer 22 Lindsay Smith 24 Josephine Darko 25 Susan Crumrine 28 Kathleen Ward 28 Ashley Strausbaugh 31
Let’s Celebrate some important coworkers!
Maintenance Worker
Appreciation Day
March 3
SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK WEEK
March 3-9
You tirelessly clean, pick up, sweep, mop, take out the trash, clean our restrooms, and countless other tasks… On some days you may not feel noticed or appreciated and for that we apologize. Because we know that the work you do, often behind the scenes, is vital to our day-to-day operations. You are a vital member of our team!
Thank you for your smiles, your work ethic, and for being a difference-maker for our kids and staff!!!
Our school social workers provide differentiated services to students in the school, looking for and creating opportunities to advocate for the whole child, including behavioral, social, and emotional needs.
These tasks and many others are often fraught with the complexities of family dynamics, scheduling frustrations, and much more.
Thank you for never giving up on our kids! Thank you for tirelessly supporting our team!
TO EVERY SEAPCO staff member, FTE or PTE thank you for listening, for guidance, for inspiration, for encouragement, and for being here! But most importantly for being a part of our team! We don’t ever want you to feel taken for granted. We get busy with the stuff of our jobs and do not spend enough time saying thank you!!!! As winter comes to an end we want to spring into a mindset of appreciation!
Let The Games Begin!
Stephanie Barb, Courtney Kachanuk, and the staff/students in the Seapco Developmental Classroom at Norwood Primary School participate and enjoy adapted versions of common children's games called Game Day weekly
During Unified PE typical board games are adapted and taught to the students and their gen Ed buddies. Communication, turn-taking, and integration/inclusion are the focus of the lessons. They are presenting this concept at an Infinitec Practioner's Conference on March 12, 2024.
We are blessed to have these two speech pathologists incorporate more ways for inclusionary practices in class and with their Unified Buddies!
What a Great Idea and It’s Backed By the Research
The Benefits of Playing Board Games for Kids. Information taken from Biopsychosoc Med. 2019; 13: 5. doi: 10.1186/s13030019-0146-3
Reducing Risk of Mental Illness – Games help reduce the risk of cognitive decline by keeping the mind engaged and strengthening it.
Social Skills
Fine Motor, Coordination, & Dexterity
Life Skills
Reducing Stress Brain Building
Stress Reducing
Academic Skills
Counting
Math Spelling Basic Engineering
For some ideas of games that would benefit in the above areas go to: https://www.ssww.com/blog/the-benefits-of-playing-board-games-for-kids/ Meet one of our new hires…
WELCOME Jessica Gagnon to our SEAPCO Team
I am Jessica Gagnon and I am from McHenry Illinois. I graduated from Bradley University in December and I will be teaching ECE at Pleasant Valley Primary School.
I am so excited to work with everyone at SEAPCO!
Deductive Reasoning & Logic
Memory Formation & Cognitive Skills
Building Friendships & Bonds
March Newsletter Vol. 1 Issue 7 SEAPCO CONNECTIONS
No SEAPCO students)
