4 Tips for Creating Supportive Classrooms for Students with Autism
In today’s educational landscape, the need for comprehensive approaches that address both academic needs and non-academic barriers to student success has never been more critical. Catapult Learning, a leader in educational services, has been at the forefront of transforming schools for almost 50 years through its innovative professional development solutions.
Helping the Helpers: How Schools Can Support Counselors While Strengthening Student Mental Health
The mental health crisis among students continues to escalate, leaving school counselors and educators searching for effective solutions. While Tier 1 support offers universal interventions and Tier 3 provides intensive clinical care, Tier 2 interventions – those designed to help at-risk students before their challenges escalate into crises – are often missing from schools’ mental health systems of supports.
How to support student mental health before a crisis
The mental health crisis among students continues to escalate, leaving school counselors and educators searching for effective solutions. While Tier 1 support offers universal interventions and Tier 3 provides intensive clinical care, Tier 2 interventions – those designed to help at-risk students before their challenges escalate into crises – are often missing from schools’ mental health systems of supports.
School counselors ID “critical shortfalls” in student mental health crisis
As student mental health challenges continue to grow, it’s imperative schools are equipped with the tools and strategies to address their needs Key Points: Nearly all counselors said students’ mental health issues significantly impact their own well-being Student mental health needs grow as challenges persist A free mental health [...]
FullBloom Acquires CharacterStrong, Leading Provider of School-Based Mental Health Solutions for Students
Move enhances company mission of supporting students' resilience and mental well-being to unlock learning potential and academic outcomes PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 25, 2025—FullBloom, the nation’s leading child development platform, providing academic, behavioral, and mental health interventions and supports to K-12 schools, today announced the acquisition of CharacterStrong, a national [...]
How Learning Bags Boost Literacy and Build Bonds
Reading is not only a critical skill but also a joyful activity that sparks creativity, curiosity, and connections within families. Establishing a regular reading routine at home is essential, yet busy schedules often make it difficult for families to dedicate enough time to reading together.
Case Study: Implementing an Equity Multiplier Framework to Support Student Mental Health and Resilience
March 2, 2025 | 10:00 AM PT Hosted by your Catapult Learning team, along with special guests: Peter Birdsall, President and Legislative Advocate, Education Advocates, LLC Sandra Morales, Partner and Legislative Advocate, Education Advocates, LLC Chris Fore, Principal, Mojave High School Join us for a webinar featuring Chris [...]
Catapult Learning Survey of K-12 School Counselors Reveals Critical Shortfalls in Addressing Youth Mental Health Crisis
Survey of 500 counselors found 94% believe proactive strategies are essential for addressing mental health before students reach clinical (Tier 3) levels 90% said students’ mental health issues significantly impact their own well-being Findings highlight the importance of Tier 2 interventions to bridge prevention and crisis management solutions PHILADELPHIA, [...]
EmpowerU Named a Finalist for District Administration’s Top EdTech Products of the Year 2025 Award
We’re excited to announce that EmpowerU, Catapult Learning’s mental health and resilience solution, has been named a finalist in District Administration’s Top EdTech Products of the Year competition, in the Student Support Technology category. This honor highlights EmpowerU’s success in revolutionizing school-based mental health services by providing faster, [...]
Solving the Tier 2 Puzzle: Supporting Student Mental Health Before a Crisis
Solving the Tier 2 Puzzle: Supporting Student Mental Health Before a Crisis The youth mental health crisis is challenging schools to provide better support for students at all levels. While current strategies often focus on universal Tier 1 supports or addressing urgent Tier 3 crises, Tier 2 interventions—a [...]
Transform Schools and Drive Student Success through Comprehensive Professional Development
In today’s educational landscape, the need for comprehensive approaches that address both academic needs and non-academic barriers to student success has never been more critical. Catapult Learning, a leader in educational services, has been at the forefront of transforming schools for almost 50 years through its innovative professional development solutions.
Simple Ways to Integrate Educator Well-being and Resilience into Professional Learning
Recalling the tried-and-true “put on your own oxygen mask first before helping others” analogy, when teachers are engaged, present, and in the right frame of mind to instruct, positive student outcomes follow. Once overlooked, this critical principle is now gaining traction when it comes to supporting educator wellness.
Why Schools Must Prioritize Student Motivation and Mental Health Post-COVID-19
Student mental health challenges have been rising for the past decade, creating barriers to academic success. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Institute of Mental Health estimated that one in three students struggled with anxiety, depression, trauma, or attention issues that negatively impacted their ability to focus, stay motivated and engaged, and learn.
Catapult Learning and Boston University Wheelock Institute for the Science of Education Form Strategic Partnership to Elevate Literacy Instruction
Collaboration aims to boost reading proficiency in early elementary students nationwide through educator empowerment PHILADELPHIA, November 12, 2024 – Catapult Learning, a division of FullBloom that provides intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in K-12 schools, and the Boston University [...]
How High-Quality PD Helps Schools Achieve Math & Literacy Goals
Now that we’re well into the school year, educators and students are immersed in and focused on their drive toward the shared goal of academic achievement. And by this point, many educators have likely identified patterns of both student success and learning gaps that need to be addressed.
Boosting Student Support: How the Right MTSS Tools Make All the Difference
It’s a striking reality. Student mental health challenges continue to rise, yet schools are often severely understaffed to support them. According to the American School Counselor Association, the recommended counselor-to-student ratio is 1:250, and the National Association of School Psychologists suggests 1:500 for psychologists.
EmpowerU Expands Tier 2 Student Mental Health Offering
Early intervention alleviates subclinical levels of mental health challenges with students and sets them up for success PHILADELPHIA, October 29, 2024 – EmpowerU, Catapult Learning’s mental health and resilience solution, today announced the expansion of its Tier 2 programming to further assist schools in supporting [...]
Powering Literacy Success with Enhanced Core Reading Instruction (ECRI)
November 18, 2024 | 12:00 PM ET Hosted by: Carol Dissen, Co-Owner & Lead Consultant Metis Education Consulting, Boston University Jess Surles, Research Scientist, Boston University Sue Gerenstein, VP Professional Development, Catapult Learning Patty McGraw, PD Specialist, Catapult Learning Susan Ehlert, PD Specialist, Catapult Learning Join literacy [...]
On This World Mental Health Day, Let’s Prioritize the Well-being of Our Educators
Today is World Mental Health Day, and this year’s theme centers on prioritizing mental health in the workplace. For those of us in education, this means turning our attention to the well-being of our educators and staff—a need that has never been more urgent.
EmpowerU Webinar Series: Helping Districts Improve Attendance, Behaviors, and Student/Educator Well-Being
EmpowerU Webinar Series: Helping Districts Improve Attendance, Behaviors, and Student/Educator Well-Being EmpowerU, Catapult Learning’s mental health and resilience solution, is excited to present a four-part webinar series designed to help schools tackle some of the most pressing challenges in education today. Whether you're dealing with attendance issues, managing [...]
How Prevention And Early Intervention Are Boosting Student Mental Health in Schools
The recent release of the CDC’s Youth Behavior Study brings encouraging news: poor mental health among high school students decreased from 2021 to 2023. Kathleen Ethier, director of the CDC’s Division of Adolescent and School Health, called the improvements “small yet significant,” likely due to schools’ increased efforts to support student well-being.
Maximizing Section 31aa Funding for Student Mental Health & Safety in Michigan Schools
October 15, 2024 | 11:00 AM ET Hosted by: Maureen Scully, Solutions Consultant, Catapult Learning/EmpowerU Jerry Chessman, Director of School Partnerships, Catapult Learning Michallene Thacker-Mann, Director of School Partnerships, Catapult Learning This new funding, through Section 31aa of Public Act 120 of 2024, provides critical support for [...]
Erica Fener Sitkoff Of FullBloom On Raising Children With Healthy Social Media & Digital Media Habits
An Interview With Maria Angelova Our children are facing challenges that didn’t exist just a short while ago. They are growing up with social media, constantly being connected, and the hurried pace of life today, as well as the pandemic, and the often frightening news. In short, our children [...]
LIPDRC – August 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we transition from summer to the new school year, the Long Island PD Resource Center invites you to take a moment to reflect on your journey and prepare for the exciting year ahead. Our theme for August, "Reflecting [...]
School attendance: Why mental health and screen time are keys
To improve student well-being and get them excited about coming to school, we must address two critical areas: mental health and screen time. School attendance matters. Students who show up regularly are more likely to excel academically, graduate on time, and develop essential social and emotional skills. Yet, chronic [...]
An Answer to Today’s Math Teacher Preparation Problem
It’s been well documented that math performance among K-12 students in the United States declined precipitously during the pandemic and has yet to fully recover. Yes, COVID-19 and distance learning certainly played a role in the drop-off of math scores across the country.
Catapult Learning Names Rebekah Ford 2024 Teacher of the Year
Educator Takes Home Top Spot in Inaugural Nationwide Program Recognizing Outstanding Teachers PHILADELPHIA, June 18, 2024 – Catapult Learning, a provider of professional development solutions for educators in K-12 schools and intervention programs for students, today announced its first Teacher of the Year, Rebekah [...]
LIPDRC – July 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we find ourselves in the peaceful month of July, we gather with great joy and admiration to celebrate the end of another extraordinary school year. With unwavering dedication and resilience, you have navigated challenges, embraced new methods of [...]
How Maximizing Summer PD Prepares Your Educators for Fall
According to a Rand survey, 99% of teachers in the U.S. participated in at least one summer professional learning activity and believed them to be relevant, helpful for improving instructional practice, and as useful as other PD-related activities provided by their schools and districts.
LIPDRC – June 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we enter the reflective month of June, the Long Island PD Resource Center invites you to pause and look back on the incredible journey we've embarked upon together this year. Our theme, "Reflecting and Growing," encourages you to take [...]
The Importance of Teacher Mental Health and Wellness
The stress and uncertainty of teaching has taken a tremendous toll on educator mental health. Put simply, teachers and school staff are exhausted and stressed out, and that impacts their students. Teacher wellness correlates with teaching effectiveness and student achievement.
Equity Multiplier Solutions for CA Continuation Schools
June 18, 2024 | 12:30 PM PT Hosted by: Peter Birdsall, President and Legislative Advocate, Education Advocates, LLC Sandra Morales, Partner and Legislative Advocate, Education Advocates, LLC Milton A. Alexander Jr., ED.M, Senior Vice President, Alternative Education, FullBloom Jennifer Gotkin, Director of Strategic Partnerships for CA, Catapult Learning [...]
What’s Golden Child Syndrome? If You Have More Than One Kid, It Should Be On Your Radar
If you’ve ever felt guilty over “liking” one of your children more than another at some point, don’t. When you have multiple children, it’s a given that they’ll take turns pissing you off. It’s only when one child consistently gets placed on a pedestal that a real problem can [...]
3 Ways to Address Wellness in the Classroom
Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of teaching? You're not alone! Many educators experience stress and burnout. Learn more about the effective strategies to improve teacher wellness.
Teach & Thrive: 8 Competencies for Immediate Classroom Impact
Catapult Learning is proud to partner with Praxis, the world’s largest, private educational and workforce research and measurement organization. By drawing on insights gleaned from ETS Praxis® elementary-mathematics test data, coupled with research around critical, high-leverage teaching practices, Catapult Learning is excited to host a webinar focused on [...]
LIPDRC – May 2024 Newsletter
Happy Teacher Appreciation Month from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) Let's take this opportunity to celebrate and honor the remarkable educators who shape the future of our society through their hard work and dedication. We're immensely thankful for the passion and commitment that you bring to [...]
Authoritarian Parenting Can Make It Harder for a Child to Succeed—Here’s Why
A study says parents are trying to take control of their child's academic pursuits. Experts explain why that can cause issues.It’s been a rough go for children academically over the last few years—from pandemic switches to virtual learning and the continued fallout. A survey of more than 3,000 parents by Test Prep [...]
Women Leading Education
To support the wellness of women in school leadership, Catapult Learning is proud to offer central office administrators and building leaders a complimentary 90-minute, in-person professional development workshop of your choice*, including an option from EmpowerU, our newest mental health service! Please fill out the form below to [...]
LIPDRC – April 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we step into the month of April, the Long Island Professional Development Resource Center invites you to continue your journey of renewal and growth. Our theme for this month, "Rising Stronger," urges you to persevere in your pursuit of [...]
Want to improve test scores? Remove these non-academic barriers
An alarming undercurrent to current academic declines is a rising tide of maladaptive behaviors across all student populations. We’ve all seen the statistics. Reading and math scores are down in the latest NAEP numbers. The average scores for 9-year-old students in 2022 declined five points in reading and seven [...]
What is teacher wellness?
The stress and uncertainty of teaching has taken a tremendous toll on educator mental health. Put simply, teachers and school staff are exhausted and stressed out, and that impacts their students. Teacher wellness correlates with teaching effectiveness and student achievement.
Catapult Learning and Praxis Partner on Program to Equip New Teachers With Skills in Math Instruction and Core Competencies
Easy-to-implement ‘New Teacher Math & Essentials’ professional development program empowers educators with essential skills and strategies to drive student achievement PHILADELPHIA, March 12, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a provider of professional development solutions for educators in K-12 schools and intervention programs for students, [...]
What Makes an Effective Teacher Professional Development Program?
Optimal teaching and learning in classrooms, and beyond, can take place only when the following three critical areas are addressed in an integrated way:
LIPDRC – March 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we stride into the lively month of March, the Long Island Professional Development Resource Center extends an invitation to sustain the momentum of growth and progress. Our overarching theme, "Marching Forward," encourages you to persist in your commitment to [...]
What is STEAM education?
There’s plenty to know about STEAM learning, a form of education that’s exploded in popularity in recent years. And we’ll cover it all in this article.
1-on-1 coaching is the missing piece in student mental health
This article was originally published by District Administration and can be found here: https://districtadministration.com/1-on-1-coaching-is-the-missing-piece-in-student-mental-health/ There is a student mental health crisis in the United States. The U.S. Surgeon General declared the decline of student mental health as the “crisis of our time.” Nearly one-third of U.S. students report having [...]
Optimizing Student Achievement: Best Practices in Leading Literacy Implementation
Recorded on: March 5, 2024 | 12:00 PM ET Hosted by: Susan Gerenstein, Vice President of Professional Development Kimm Rombardo, Solutions Specialist Unlocking literacy is critical to accessing learning across all subject areas. Vital to successful literacy initiatives are the practices identified in effective literacy implementations. [...]
California’s Equity Multiplier with Catapult Learning
February 26, 2024 | 12:30 PM PT or February 27, 2024 | 10:00 AM PT Hosted by: Peter Birdsall, President and Legislative Advocate, Education Advocates, LLC Sandra Morales, Partner and Legislative Advocate, Education Advocates, LLC Jennifer Gotkin, Director of Strategic Partnerships for CA, Catapult Learning Kari Swift, Director [...]
2023 NAEP Test Scores Illustrate the Importance of High-Dosage Tutoring
For those unfamiliar, the NAEP LTT test is a gold standard colloquially known as “the nation’s report card” and is effective at comparing student achievement from decade to decade.
What is math tutoring?
Continuing the post-pandemic trend of plummeting test scores, recent data from the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA) tests revealed that math scores for American students dropped to an all-time low. Let’s dive into math tutoring, its benefits, what to look for, and how Catapult Learning can help your district’s students improve in math.
Supporting the Whole Child Through Summer Learning
Summer school serves as more than an academic bridge. It's a crucial avenue for real-world preparation, nurturing well-being, and fostering essential life skills.
LIPDRC – February 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we embark on the second month of 2024, the Long Island Professional Development Resource Center invites you to continue your journey of personal and professional growth with our theme: "New Year, New You." We trust that you are maintaining [...]
EmpowerU Honors Exemplary School Partners for Outstanding Impact on Student Mental Health
MINNEAPOLIS – EmpowerU, a leading national provider of mental health skills and support for schools, recently recognized five school districts for their longstanding commitment to improving student resilience and mental health. The districts, based in Minnesota where EmpowerU was founded in 2018, each worked with EmpowerU [...]
Making the Transition from EANS to Other Funding
The federal education funding landscape can be difficult terrain for even the most experienced educators to navigate. . In this article, we’ll discuss how schools can make the transition from EANS funding to other funding, such as Title and IDEA, and how Catapult Learning can help make this switch seamless.
Implementing Best Practices for Student Attendance
Student attendance—or the lack thereof—is quickly becoming a major problem in America. More and more students are considered chronically absent today.
What Is Classroom Management?
Educators have what seems to be an endless list of responsibilities and tasks, but one stands out among them all--supporting all students regardless of their learning differences.
LIPDRC – January 2024 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) 2024 is here and the time to begin creating better habits is now! "New Year, New You" is not only our theme for January, but for the whole year and we need your commitment to make it happen. Your Long [...]
LIPDRC – December 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) We're thrilled to commence this winter month with a burst of educational inspiration. From transformative workshops that have fueled your passion for teaching to the exciting events, resources, and invaluable insights we have in store, December promises to be a [...]
Catapult Learning is ALL IN VA
December 13 12:00 - 12:30 PM ET Hosted by: Molly Cavanaugh, Director of Strategic Partnerships Please join us on Wednesday 12/13 from 12-12:30PM for a lunchtime session on how Catapult Learning can support your school division with All IN VA funding. Our High-Dosage Tutoring, Literacy based PD, and [...]
Virtual ESI for Building Leaders Workshop Series
January 16-18 2:00 - 3:30 PM ET Register for Webinar Catapult Learning invites you to join us for Virtual ESI for Building Leaders, our three-day virtual workshop series designed specifically for building-level administrators. Led by Michelle Doyle, a leader in educational consulting and equitable services, these three [...]
Addressing Chronic Absenteeism
This may be stating the obvious, but education is most effective when students are consistently in school and learning. Unfortunately, chronic absenteeism from school—which increased dramatically during the pandemic—continues to be a nationwide crisis.
How School Transformation Helps Underperforming Schools
Underperforming schools often require significant changes to achieve their goals. School transformation is a process that involves thorough analysis, observation, and assessment of a school’s strengths and challenges, followed by an implementation plan to improve in all areas.
LIPDRC – November 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) November has graced us with its warm hues and the whisper of autumn's transformation, and your Long Island PD Resource Center newsletter is right there with it! We are thrilled to commence this month with a renewed focus on educational [...]
What Is Blended Learning?
Education hasn’t looked the same since the pandemic as new approaches and innovations make their way into classrooms around the world. One of those approaches, which remains quite popular and effective today, is blended learning.
What is Financial Literacy?
Did you know that more than 60% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck? When this is the case, how do people set themselves up for long-term financial security?
What is Tutoring?
Tutoring is extra academic learning and support that can be delivered by a teacher, other school staff, an experienced peer, or a professional tutor.
LIPDRC – October 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) Welcome, Lifelong Learners, to the October Edition! October has arrived with its vibrant leaves and a symphony of colors, and so has your Long Island PD Resource Center newsletter! We're delighted to kick off this autumn month with a burst [...]
Empowering educators through holistic teacher PD
Balancing teacher workload and maximizing the outcomes of PD--to create immediate impact, lasting skills, educator engagement--requires a thoughtful approach I vividly remember 20 years ago when I first entered the education field as an elementary school teacher. My lifelong career dream became a reality as I proudly entered my [...]
EmpowerU: Reimagined Student Mental Wellness Support
Webinar EmpowerU: Reimagined Student Mental Wellness Support October 12, 2023 | 2:00 PM EST Hosted By: Katie Dorn, Co-Founder, EmpowerU Watch this webinar to learn how EmpowerU, FullBloom’s newest service offering, can effectively help your students build resilience and self-regulation skills with a [...]
Holistic PD: Strategies for District Leaders to Equip and Empower Today’s Educators
Webinar Catapult Learning Holistic PD: Strategies for District Leaders to Equip and Empower Today’s Educators Presented by District Administration Originally Held: October 17, 2023 | 2pm-3pm ET Watch Webinar Recording Today’s district leaders face a daunting array of challenges, from addressing pandemic learning loss, to complying [...]
FullBloom Acquires EmpowerU, Deepening Its Commitment to Mental Health Services
Move enhances company mission of supporting students' resilience and mental well-being to unlock learning potential and academic outcomes PHILADELPHIA, Sept. 13, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FullBloom, a leading provider of special education, instructional intervention, behavioral health, and professional development solutions, today announced the acquisition of [...]
Making the Most Out of Your Investment in Educators
The most recent NAEP scores are not pretty…especially in reading and math, with the latter seeing its largest drop since 19901. But academics is just one issue facing educators today— non-academic barriers to learning are on the rise across all student populations.Many teachers are simply not prepared to handle the [...]
LIPDRC – September 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As the summer days gradually give way to the buzz of a new school year, we are thrilled to extend our warmest welcome to all the dedicated teachers who are returning to our vibrant learning community. The journey ahead promises [...]
EmpowerU: Reimagined Student Mental Health Support in Arizona
Webinar EmpowerU: Reimagined Student Mental Health Support September 13, 2023 K-8: 9:00 AM PST | High School: 1:00 PM PST Hosted By: Teresa Gregory, Director of Strategic Partnerships & Erika Cedergren, Director of Strategic Partnerships | EmpowerU Join us for a webinar to [...]
LIPDRC – August 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As we gear up for another exciting new school year, our special edition newsletter for August is dedicated to classroom management and routines—the building blocks for a successful and enriching learning environment. From tried-and-true strategies to innovative approaches, we've curated [...]
Improved Literacy Scores Require Improved Literacy Instruction
Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) District, looking to improve test scores through more holistic and effective PD, engaged Catapult Learning to provide job-embedded literacy coaching workshops on how K-5 teachers can apply the Science of Reading through structured literacy. Here's how: Literacy scores are lower [...]
Catapult Learning Teacher PD Featured on NBC News (Washington, DC)
Catapult Learning’s professional development partnership with the Montgomery County Public School (MCPS) District in Maryland was recently featured on WRC NBC 4 Washington’s news. The coverage highlighted the district’s efforts, in collaboration with Catapult Learning PD, to equip their educators with the tools and strategies they need to overcome [...]
LIPDRC July Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) This July it is with great joy and admiration that we gather here to celebrate the conclusion of another remarkable school year. With unwavering dedication and resilience, you have guided your students through challenges, embraced new ways of teaching and [...]
Catapult Learning for Chicago Public Schools
Webinar Catapult Learning “One for All” Professional Learning Services for Chicago Public Schools July 26, 2023 | 9:00 - 9:50 AM CST Hosted By: Meredith Wittich, Director of Strategic Partnerships Join us for coffee and learn more about our “One for All” Professional [...]
LIPDRC- June 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) As the summer season approaches, we hope this newsletter finds you energized and ready to embark on new learning adventures. At Long Island Professional Development Resource Center, we are committed to providing you with the latest insights, strategies, and resources [...]
MTSS to Address Ongoing Achievement Disparities
Webinar MTSS to Address Ongoing Achievement Disparities May 18, 2023 | 3:00 - 4:00 PM ET Watch Recording School and district leaders can build a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) to address disproportionality. To support your efforts, Catapult Learning cordially invites you [...]
LIPDRC- May 2023 Newsletter
Greetings from the Long Island PD Resource Center (PDRC) It's Teacher Appreciation Month! That means it's time to honor and celebrate the hardworking and dedicated educators who shape the future of our society. We are grateful for the passion and commitment that teachers bring to their classrooms every day, [...]
3 Keys to Teacher Retention
We’ve reached an inflection point regarding teacher retention, and education leaders must strategize on how to keep their best educators before it’s too late. Consider these 2022 statistics: 80% of teachers indicate that burnout is a serious problem.1 55% of educators now indicate that they are ready to leave [...]
LIPDRC- April 2023 Newsletter
Spring is here, and we feel now is a perfect time to reflect. Take this time to reflect on your goals and aspirations as a teacher and to recommit to the pursuit of excellence in the classroom. Let's finish the year strong! In this edition of our Long Island [...]
LIPDRC- March 2023 Newsletter
Greetings! As we move further into the year, we approach the month of March, which brings with it the promise of new beginnings and fresh opportunities. It’s a time when the world around us begins to awaken from the slumber of winter, and we are reminded of the transformative [...]
Catapult Learning Selected by Mississippi Department of Education to Provide Statewide Professional Development and Coaching Services
Multi-year contract delivers instructional mathematics training and support to K-12 public schools PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in K-12 schools, announced its selection by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) to provide [...]
Catapult Learning Selected by Mississippi Department of Education to Provide Statewide Professional Development and Coaching Services
Multi-year contract delivers instructional mathematics training and support to K-12 public schools PHILADELPHIA, Feb. 08, 2023 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in K-12 schools, announced its selection by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) to provide [...]
LIPDRC- February 2023 Newsletter
February is upon us, and as the winter months continue, it's more important than ever to provide our schools with the resources they need to succeed. The Long Island Professional Development Resource Center (PDRC) understands the unique challenges that schools face, and we are dedicated to supporting them in [...]
Turning Summer Learning Loss into Learning Gains
Summer learning loss, summer slide—these familiar terms describe the loss of learning over the summer from the prior school year because of the lengthy absence from school. On top of that, we are now (unfortunately) dealing with COVID learning loss, which still lingers as a result of school disruptions [...]
Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) chooses Catapult Learning to provide mathematics coaching services to selected schools
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) will provide 25 or more new instructional math coaches over the next four years to identified K-12 schools. The coaches will deliver professional development and coaching services to teachers and administrators that will improve student outcomes. Today, the Mississippi State [...]
LIPDRC- January 2023 Newsletter
Welcome back to school and to the new year 2023! January is often the time when we see the most growth in our students because they know what to expect from their teachers, they are back in the habit of working at school and all the instructional pieces start [...]
How California Schools Can Best Use Their EANS Funds
California’s student literacy rates are low, teacher stress is high, learning gaps are expansive, and student mental health is nearing crisis levels. There is hope to be found in the form of California Emergency Assistance for Non-Public Schools (EANS) funding. And there are plenty of areas in which this [...]
LIPDRC- December 2022 Newsletter
Happy December! As we look at the month of December, we often reflect on the year that has passed. We welcome the change of season and take the time to recognize the teachers we have supported throughout the year. Collaborating with other leaders and educators [...]
Catapult Learning is Named a 2022 Cognia ‘System of Distinction’
Intervention and professional development provider places in the top 10 percent of all Cognia programs assessed globally PHILADELPHIA, Oct. 31, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Catapult Learning, a nationwide leader in math and literacy intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic [...]
The Only Real Way to Recover from Learning Loss
The devastating learning loss caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has been well-documented, and its effects still linger today. A recent survey shows that 59% of families are worried that their children will experience long-term academic struggles because of disruptions to their education (both academic and emotional) during the COVID-19 [...]
Recent NAEP Test Scores Illustrate the Importance of High-Dosage Tutoring
Two decades’ worth of progress…gone. Just like that. Everyone was aware of the learning loss and intellectual damage done by the COVID-19 pandemic, but the recently released National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) scores offer grim, sobering insight on just how devastating the pandemic was to education—math and reading [...]
LIPDRC- October 2022 Newsletter
Happy October! Hope your school year is off to a great start. The Long Island PDRC off to a fresh start with a new revamped newsletter to support instruction in your classrooms - check out our new Math Corner, ELA Shelf, and Tech Updates! Our [...]
Tips for bridging learning gaps and achieving positive student outcomes
Actionable strategies and solutions designed to prepare administrators for a successful new school year As the 2022-2023 school year kicks off, the obstacles facing faculty, staff, and students remain significant. In fact, the upcoming school year might be the most challenging yet. Administrators continue facing pandemic-induced hurdles such as [...]
Catapult Learning Releases 2022 Learning Bags for Supplemental and At-Home K-12 Student Education
Bags provide cost-effective way to keep young minds engaged throughout summer break PHILADELPHIA, May 09, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic K-12 schools, today announced the availability of its 2022 Student [...]
Catapult Learning Selected by Illinois State Board of Education to Deliver High-Impact Tutoring for Recognized Nonpublic K-12 Schools
Contract ensures at least 5,000 students attending recognized Illinois nonpublic schools during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 academic years will receive tutoring services CHICAGO, April 19, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic [...]
Imparting Responsibility and Accountability among Children
The healthy development of children in their early years plays a critical role in providing building blocks for economic productivity, educational achievement, social skills, responsible citizenship, and other elements. In the wake of the rapidly developing technology and the emergence of the internet, it is important to equip the [...]
How to Recognize the Signs of Bullying in the Cyber Age
Once upon a time, bullying was limited to the physical world. Since what seems like forever, we sent our kids to school knowing it was possible for someone to pick on them in the classroom, on the playground, or on the bus, but there was relief in knowing that [...]
Helping Your Child Handle Peer Pressure and Conflict Resolution
Maybe you’re old enough to remember those PSAs and commercials addressing the always-relevant topic of peer pressure. One that stands out is where a teenager tries to tempt a younger boy into trying out some of his marijuana, with the famous line, “It’ll make you feel good.” And while [...]
How to Address Summer Learning Loss
Summer learning loss, also known as summer slide, has been a point of discussion and concern in K12 education for decades. While some experts claim that summer learning loss is a myth, assessment data and other evidence show otherwise. COVID-19 school closures and prolonged virtual learning have disrupted learning [...]
Time Management for Kids: What It Is and How to Utilize It at Home
What Is Time Management? Do you find that your children lack the all-important skill called time management? If you’re nodding in agreement, don’t worry--even adults have difficulties managing time! So then, what is time management, exactly? Time management is a skill or a method that helps a person keep [...]
Screen Fatigue: What It Is and How to Alleviate It
Screens. They can be our best friends. After all, they’re instant sources of education and entertainment. They help us communicate and learn. They’ve been so vitally important throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as lifelines to friends and families as well as virtual classrooms. But screens can also be our worst [...]
6 Ways for Students to Deal with School-Related Anxiety
Think back to the days when you were a student. More than likely, there were certain subjects or exams that gave you anxiety. The thought of studying or doing homework for that particular subject probably caused stomach cramps, nausea, and even actual fear. You might still feel residual effects [...]
Social-Emotional Learning: What It Is and Why It’s Important
Social-emotional learning (SEL) is one of those buzzwords you hear quite a bit in the education world today. If you’re not familiar with social-emotional learning, it is essentially curriculum focused on learning about our emotions from a cognitive and emotional level and learning different skills that can be used [...]
Communication Skills: What They Are, How to Practice Them, and How They Can Change Your Child’s Life
One of the most important skills we all should learn is to properly communicate with others. This looks different for everyone, as some individuals have different abilities that may change how they communicate with others. Examples include learning American Sign Language for deaf and hard of hearing individuals, Braille [...]
How to Help Your Child with Focus & Attention
There are many distractions that take away from learning, building relationships with others, and family time. The digital age brought more access to entertainment and ways to connect with the world through fast internet and new technology. It also brought an expectation that things need to happen immediately, thus [...]
Tips for Preventing COVID-19 Slide
Educators and parents alike prepare for the “summer slide”, the net negative phenomena in which students academically regress during summer recess, but in the world of COVID-19 how do we effectively prepare for and combat the “COVID-19 slide”? The COVID-19 slide may similarly impact students by resulting in the [...]
When to Seek Out a School Counselor
Educators, just like parents, worry about a child’s well-being. Knowing what behaviors to look out for and when to seek out help is important—for a child’s social, emotional, and physical wellness. Due to COVID-19 and the state of our world right now, we have all experienced a range of [...]
What Makes an Effective Teacher Professional Development Program?
The world of education has undergone a sea change over the past 18 months. COVID-19 clearly illustrated why effective teacher professional development (PD) is so critical to the success of not only students but entire schools. When PD is done correctly and effectively, it’s an invaluable tool for educators. [...]
How Schools Can Responsibly Spend EANS Funding
EANS funding can be a difference-maker when you allocate those funds toward resources that allow your schools to accelerate their students’ learning, make up lost learning time that resulted from COVID-19, and address social-emotional learning. Before we get into some of the most impactful ways to spend your EANS [...]
Accelerated Learning: Focusing on the Foundations That Propel Growth
COVID-19 forced all of us to adapt how we taught and how our students learned during the 2019-20, 2020-21, and even the current 2021-22 school year. And while remote/virtual/distance learning helped to fill a gaping void in students’ academic lives, the effect that the disruption of being in and [...]
Educator’s Guide to EANS Funding
Whenever federal funding is made available to schools, questions inevitably follow. Our Educator’s Guide to Emergency Assistance to Non-Public Schools (EANS) Funding helps clarify the many rules and regulations involved with this type of funding, and provides answers to the questions you may have. As an educator, you’ll need [...]
Catapult Learning Introduces New High-Dosage Tutoring Program To Reinforce Foundational Math And Literacy Skills For K-12 Students
Back-to-school program accelerates learning and boosts social-emotional support August 23, 2021, PHILADELPHIA – Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic K-12 schools, today announced the availability of its new high-dosage tutoring offering, an intensive program [...]
Catapult Learning To Present Free EANS II Webinar Examining Funding Uses And Eligibility Requirements
Non-public schools and state education agencies will learn how to make best use of new American Rescue Plan funds CAMDEN, N.J., July 28, 2021 – Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic K-12 schools, today [...]
Catapult Learning Marks 20th Year Offering Missouri Summer Journey Program for K-12 Students
Free turnkey educational program is designed to enrich children’s knowledge and skills with a hands-on, project-based curriculum that reduces summer learning loss ST. LOUIS, July 13, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public [...]
Students return in droves to Missouri Summer Journey
Catapult Learning's Suzanne DeZego, Vice President - Missouri, was recently quoted in a news article focusing on the return and growth of the Missouri Summer Journey program this year. The turnkey summer program provides complete support for districts, including lesson plans, enrollment toolkits, and professional development materials for teachers. [...]
Catholic Schools Are Making the Most of the Moment
This has not been the year for going it alone. Regardless of age, race, ethnicity or religion, our individual worlds were foundationally shaken by the COVID-19 pandemic throughout 2020. Our everyday lives — our health, careers and social structures — were disrupted like never before. The situation also shined [...]
Catapult Learning Offers Turnkey Summer Journey Program to Combat Learning Loss for Students
Enjoyable, academically enriched curricula and social-emotional learning tools are designed to keep young minds engaged and equipped to return in the fall CAMDEN, N.J., April 20, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public [...]
The Importance of Summer School Programs for Elementary Students
Back in the day, the mere mention of the words “summer school” was enough to send chills down the spine of any student. After all, who wanted to spend their summer days in a hot, classroom learning, when friends were swimming or at the beach having fun? Those days [...]
Catapult Learning Offers Free Webinars for Education Community on New Opportunities Created by COVID-19 Relief Package
Sessions guide public and nonpublic schools, district and state agencies through the Consolidated Appropriations Act CAMDEN, N.J., Jan. 11, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic K-12 schools, today announced the [...]
Instructional Coaching Strategies: 7 Smart Tips for Success
Research consistently shows that teachers, particularly new teachers, who work with instructional coaches are more likely to remain with their schools.1,2 Many schools and districts continue to be challenged with hiring and retaining qualified teachers, making it important to employ strategies to both retain and develop teachers. Coaches are increasingly [...]
FullBloom Announces the Appointment of Arne Duncan as Chairman of its Board of Directors
September 23, 2020, Camden, N.J. – FullBloom, a leading provider of special education, instructional intervention, behavioral health and professional development solutions, announced the appointment of former U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan as chairman of the company’s board of directors. Duncan is a managing partner of the Emerson Collective, a [...]
[Video] Social Emotional Learning: Incorporating Best Practices During Times of Change
Children and families are still experiencing trauma about isolation, health, survival and disparities amid the uncertainty of the coronavirus pandemic. The recent police killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Rayshard Brooks, and numerous others, as well as the associated unrest across the nation and the world, have compounded this [...]
Officials Wary of Announcing Fall School Agenda
Catapult Learning's Shirley Torho, Manager of Student and Family Support, was recently quoted in an article focusing on the uncertainty regarding the upcoming fall semester at universities. The quote was published by the Washington Informer, a weekly newspaper covering news, issues, and features relating to the African American community [...]
Catapult Learning Announces New Free Professional Development Webinar Series
Impact from a Distance: Academic, Behavioral and Social Emotional Strategies for Students and Educators during COVID-19 CAMDEN, N.J., May 27, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a provider of intervention programs for students and professional development solutions for teachers in both public and nonpublic K-12 schools, today announced [...]
Impact From A Distance: Webinar Series
Impact From A Distance: Academic, Behavioral and Social Emotional Strategies for Students & Educators during COVID-19 During this unprecedented time, the ability to virtually and remotely deliver meaningful and relevant content is more important than ever. Our Professional Development webinars will present valuable knowledge and information on [...]
Torah Umesorah: Presidents Conference 2019 – December 19th – 22nd
Catapult Learning is looking forward to exhibit at this year’s Torah Umesorah: Presidents Conference taking place from December 19th to the 22nd in Miami, Florida. We are excited to head to Florida for a weekend of connecting, learning, and teaching. Please stop by our booth to learn more about [...]
Catapult Learning and the University of Oregon’s Center on Teaching and Learning Awarded Grant to Support Literacy
Organizations’ Institute for Scaling Evidence Based Education Will Implement MTSS Reading Program Trial in 50 Schools November 12, 2019, (Camden, NJ/Eugene, OR) – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of professional development, instructional intervention, special education, and behavioral health solutions, and the Center on Teaching and Learning (CTL), a world-class [...]
Student of the Month: Kaden
Kaden has been chosen as student of the month for Sierra School of Thompson. Kaden has shown tremendous growth from the program since his first day of school. Kaden advocates for his needs and is very respectful. Kaden loves to help his Teacher organize the classroom. [...]
Staff of the Month: Jennifer
Sierra School of Thompson selected Jennifer Ireland to be staff of the month. Jennifer is always willing to lend a helping hand . She goes above and beyond everyday she walks in our doors. Jennifer attends to the children's needs and is always open for students VTO's. [...]
Perfect Attendance: Staff
We enjoy celebrating our staff and thus far this school year staff have had perfect attendance! Staff earned a pizza party to celebrate. Shout out to: Mr. Gove, Ms. Martin, Ms. Barela, Ms. S, Ms. Q, Mr. Bielik, and not pictured, Mrs. Tweed, Mrs. Munevar, and Ms. Martin, and [...]
Student Spotlight: October 2019
Congratulations to Emma, Kianna, Cooper, and Isaias for receiving Student of the Month awards for "Being On Task"! Visit our website to learn more about Sierra Academy
Cutest Pumpkins at Rader Farms
Our students were able to go to Rader Farms to participate in fall activities! Some of the activities that were available included basketball toss, jumping pillow, duck races, double-barrel chute, rat rollers, and a tire swing. The students were able to get snacks and a pumpkin. Happy fall [...]
Where Are They Now? – James Watson
James is a 2019 graduate of High Road Academy of PG County. James is currently participating in an apprenticeship program in carpentry in Washington, DC where James works at different job sites learning how to do carpentry work such as Framing, windows, and flooring. It’s a [...]
Student of the Month: Shadaesha
What has Daesha accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Daesha has continued to grow in the program since arriving for the beginning of the 2019-20 school year. Daesha consistently comes to school on time and prepared. Daesha also takes pride in [...]
Staff of the Month: Russell Wade
What impact has Russell had on colleagues and students over the past month? Counselor Wade demonstrates what it is to be a true professional. Through his leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills Counselor Wade is a pillar of positivity to everyone in the building. Never turning away [...]
Student of the Month: Daemion
What has Daemion accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? He is shown great growth in his verbal skills and being able to request needs and wants to his teachers and other staff. He has learned the months of the year and [...]
Staff of the Month: Terra
What impact has Terra had on colleagues and students over the past month? Terra is an Assistant Teacher in the Middle School/High School B.E.S.T. Classroom. She is a vital part of the classroom's positivity and functionality. She runs groups within the room with direction from the [...]
Student of the Month: Alan
What has Alan accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Alan has been a great role model to his peers within our classroom. He is very helpful to his peers and to the staff. Alan enjoys interacting/joking with his friends at school. [...]
Student of the Month: Caleb
What has Caleb accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Mrs Megan says that Caleb has significantly changed his behaviors around this school year. Caleb participates daily in activities. Mrs Megan also said that Caleb now verbalizes his frustrations and requests [...]
Staff of the Month: Megan
What impact has Megan had on colleagues and students over the past month? Megan is a very dependable co-worker to have, she is always willing to help when needed. Megan definitely has an impact on her students because she is very consistent in her classroom [...]
Staff of the Month: Mr. Casillas
What impact has Mr. Casillas had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mr. Casillas has such a wonderful impact here at Sierra, on our staff and students. Casillas is always willing to help out in every single situation, even the ones that might not [...]
Staff and Student of the Month
What has Xavian accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Xavian has been working incredibly hard to be successful this year and his hard work has paid off! Xavian is now on the highest behavior level possible and has been able to [...]
Student of the Month: Zaki
What has Zaki accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Zaki has been on time for school and in proper uniform. Zaki pushed through several challenges and has even invested his time by giving back. Several moments stand out but, can replace [...]
Student of the Month: Logan
What has Logan accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Logan has exemplified a Nova Student for his kindness, dedication to academics, and ability to regulate and stay focused in class. October 26th marked one official year on Gold Level for Logan. [...]
Staff of the Month: Mr. Pittman
What impact has Mr. Pittman had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mr. Pittman comes to work each day with a smile and a positive attitude. His encouraging, compassionate, and helpful demeanor have led multiple students to succeed. He is always looking on the [...]
Student of the Month: Jacob
What has Jacob accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Jacob was selected for student of the month for September. Jacob is currently on Gold Day 92, which was a huge accomplishment for him. He began at High Road School of Wallingford [...]
Staff of the Month: Mr. Powell
What impact has Mr. Powell had on colleagues and students over the past month? Our staff of the month for October is Mr. Powell! Mr. Powell is a 1:1 paraprofessional who has shown exemplary abilities to redirect students to make positive choices. Other staff members have [...]
Student of the Month: Wilfredo
What has Wilfredo accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Wilfredo is our student of the month for October! He was selected due to his resilience and eagerness to take responsibility. Wilfredo works in the coffee shop, deli, pet center, and many [...]
Student of the Month: Jeremiah
What has Jeremiah accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Jeremiah has earned and maintained his status in the level system all the way to GOLD. He has been on gold level for a couple of weeks and has been a constant [...]
Staff of the Month: Dante
What impact has Dante had on colleagues and students over the past month? Dante has been apart of our building for over two years. This past month Dante has really pushed himself by teaching two subjects and taking on a special! Dante is also the football [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Barnes
What impact has Ms. Barnes had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Barnes has been an amazing asset to not only the staff and administration, but she has had a big impact on the students in the building. Ms. Barnes does so many [...]
Student of the Month: Mat
What has Mat accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Mat has really come out of his shell this month! He has maintained blue consistently through-out the month. "Mat is always helpful and respectful in class. He has really tried to be [...]
Student of the Month: Zion
What has Zion accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Zion has had 5 consecutive weeks of Positive ratings since starting High Road this school year. One week, in particular, he earned 142 out of a possible 144 points possible. That's 99%! [...]
Staff of the Month: Mr. Catanzaro
What impact has Mr. Catanzaro had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mr. Catanzaro always supports his colleagues and steps up to any role or responsibility needed. Mr. Catanzaro has assisted new staff with learning our model and systems. He has helped set up [...]
Student of the Month: Jensy
What has Jensy accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Jensy has come a long way this year and continues to show improvement in his behavior and maturity. He is always helpful toward others and cooperative with peers and staff. Jensy has [...]
Staff of the Month: Mr. Almedina
What impact has Mr. Almedina had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mr. Edwin Almedina was nominated for our October staff of the Month! Mr. Almedina acts as a one to one paraprofessional. He works with students on activities of daily living, job site [...]
Student of the Month: Mariana
What has Mariana accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? The student of the month for October was none other than Mariana! Mariana recently achieved Gold level status and was our Spotlight Student last month. Staff boast that Mariana, “has been outstanding [...]
Student of the Month: Michael
What has Michael accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Michael moved into the Transition Classroom at the High Road School of Hartford High School this fall to add a life skills component to his education. Michael has proven to be a [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. B
What impact has Ms. B had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. B brings happiness and joy to all of our students and our staff. She gets many requests from students to see her during the day and she makes it a point [...]
Student of the Month: Josh
What has Josh accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Josh is very respectful and continues to grow as a scholar and young man. He shows consistency in everything he has been doing. Josh has worked very hard to maintain his blue [...]
Staff and Student of the Month
What has Nathan accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Nathan has been coming into school spreading positivity every morning. He has done all his work and has improved his behavior to earn his way to green level. What is something Nathan has [...]
Staff of the Month: Collene
What impact has Collene had on colleagues and students over the past month? Collene is the ultimate team player. She comes from a place of yes with her colleagues and makes them priority. She works very closely with leadership and is vital to their day. She [...]
Student of the Month: Ian
What has Ian accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Ian is a responsible, creative, and motivated student. Ian comes to school with a positive attitude as he greets staff members upon arrival and dismissal. Ian is able to be a role [...]
Staff of the Month: Erin
What impact has Erin had on colleagues and students over the past month? Erin has been an amazing resource to the staff of High Road School since taking on her new role this school year! Erin new role has allowed her to provide instruction support to [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Z
What impact has Ms. Z had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Z (Zenia) is an Assistant Teacher at Lockerman Middle School IDC. Ms. Z has been an integral part of the team this year. Ms. Z has shown great leadership qualities and [...]
Student of the Month: Sammy
What has Sammy accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Samuel "Sammy" Ojo was selected as our October Student of the Month for his continued successes in our program, specifically as a student in our B.E.S.T Classroom. Sammy has maintained our highest behavioral [...]
Staff & Student of the Month!
What has Kayla accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? We are excited to announce that our October Student of the Month is Kayla Wooten. Even though Kayla has only been a student at High Road Frankford for a month, she has [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Latonya
What impact has Latonya had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Latonya Sweeney started with our program this school year. Right from the start, she demonstrated a zest for learning and positive energy. She has demonstrated a lot of our CORE 4 values [...]
Student of the Month: Ka’yla
What has Kay’la accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Kay’la has exceeded every expectation that Mr. Johnson has set in place for her. “Her passion, charismatic personality and eagerness to learn are exceptional”, Mr. Johnson proudly stated. Her ability to follow [...]
Student of the Month. Jalynn
What has Jalynn accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? While Jalynn is new to HRA enrolling on September 3rd, he has quickly demonstrated the qualities and characteristics worthy of the Student of the Month honor. Staff members frequently commend Jalynn’s work [...]
Staff of the Month. Ms. Jackson
What impact has Ms. Jackson had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Jackson has worked as an Assistant Teacher in our 11th-grade classroom since November 2018. Ms. Jackson has shown tremendous growth and development in her instructional skills. Ms. Jackson shared that she [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Cunningham
What impact has Ms. Cunningham had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Cunningham is very consistent, creative and passionate about teaching the students. Ms. Cunningham is a second year teacher that has shown a great capacity to accept knowledge, instruction, constructive criticism and [...]
Staff of the Month: Moet
What impact has Moet had on colleagues and students over the past month? Moet is a calming guide in the crazy world of IEPs and 504s. She shares information with all stakeholders and is transparent in the needs of our kids. She always puts them first [...]
Student of the Month: Denetrya
What has Ms. Stanley accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Ms Stanley has been an excellent example of PEAK Academy and this program. She completes all of her work on time. Redirects her peers with dignity and respect. Interact with staff [...]
Staff of the Month: Kiana
What impact has Kiana had on colleagues and students over the past month? Kianna, “Ms. Ki”, Proctor joined Capital Academy during the 2018-19 school year in the role of Elementary Teaching Assistant. Ms. Ki brought with her a depth of knowledge and experience working with children [...]
Student of the Month: Drakari
What has Drakari accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Since returning this school year Drakari has consistently demonstrated positive behaviors and growth. This month he has earned himself a place in Capital Academy’s Student Government. Drakari is a charismatic student who [...]
Staff of the Month: Kirk
What impact has Kirk had on colleagues and students over the past month? Kirk immediately gained a positive rapport with some our most challenging students. He is always willing to help in the various classrooms and always has a teamwork attitude. Kirk has a great relationship [...]
Student of the Month: Joseph
What has Joseph accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Joseph has worked very hard to earn his way to be a Gold Level student. He regularly volunteers to run daily errands for his teachers, such as; make copies, sweep the classroom, [...]
Student of the Month: Lauren
What has Lauren accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Lauren has been named Aurora Day School's Student of the Month. Lauren consistently displays kindness and respect to her peers and staff while juggling a full course load. Lauren has also started [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Bianes
What impact has Ms. Bianes had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Bianes has been an outstanding member of our team. She is a hardworking individual who always takes on more than what she is expected too. When it comes to our students, [...]
Student of the Month: Nick
What has Nick accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? The Apex team picked Nick for our student of the month not only because he is awesome, but he excels as a student. Nick has been able to do well in academics [...]
Staff of the Month: Mr. Cook
What impact has Mr. Cook had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mr. Cook has been a positive influence with both staff and students. Leading by example, always present and willing to support those around him. He does thing the right way and works [...]
Student of the Month: T’Auri
What has T'Auri accomplished over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? T'Auri has become a strong leader and independent success at Anthony Wayne Academy. She has participated in the school’s student government while up holding her high academic status. T'Auri has support her [...]
Student of the Month: William
Our student of the month for October is William! On his first day of school, William attempted to leave the classroom every single opportunity provided. When asked to conduct an academic task, William stepped away from his desk within 5 seconds and made his way towards [...]
Key Staff: Alex
Alex is one of our top 1:1 Aides. He’s genuinely caring towards all students. He is reliable as he shows to work promptly and consistently everyday. Alex remains calm during crisis situations. He has a consistent pleasant and empathetic demeanor. Alex is detailed, thorough, highly organized, efficient, [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Holton & Mrs. Buell
Ms. Holton and Mrs. Buell- These two are dynamic and energetic teachers that come to work with a smile on their face and who greet their students with warm welcomes. Both are dedicated to creating a positive environment for their students and work diligently to ensure [...]
Staff Spotlight: Clarisse
What would you name the autobiography of your life? "My Unordinary Life" If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? Play the piano. If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? Pay off debts for my family and [...]
Staff of the Month: Alexis
Sierra School has selected Alexis Dees to be staff of the month. Alexis it’s always willing to lend a helping hand she goes above and beyond for the kids at Sierra school and she’s always spreading joy and kindness. And that is why we have selected her [...]
Staff of the Month: Scott
Scott was chosen for student of the month because Scott follows all directions and has not had any prompts in the past two weeks. Scott does all of his schoolwork, is polite to all students and staff, and he is a role model for other students in our [...]
Staff of the Month: Adrianna Fredo
Adrianna has had an incredible impact on both students, staff and families here at the High Road School of Massachusetts. Adrianna shows amazing dedication to our students. She welcomes them every morning with a smile on her face and an excited demeanor which allows the students to start their [...]
Student of the Month: Logan
Logan has been with Sierra School since 2014. He has shown great improvement year after year, leading up to recently starting to transition back to public school. We are so Proud of all his hard work. Visit our website to learn more about [...]
Staff of the Month: Quenitra Hughes
Nashville native and devout mother of three, Ms. Hughes has gone above and beyond to make a positive impact on the students at High Road. Ms. Hughes joined our team in the second semester of last school year and was part of the instrumental team that [...]
Staff Spotlight: Ms. Barbara
This month’s staff spotlight is highly appreciated by all! Ms. Barbara started in January of 2013 as our Administrative Assistant. She undoubtedly goes above and beyond every day. Her daily job duties are done with efficiency and efficacy. She keeps our school organized and on point. She [...]
Staff of the Month
Maurice does an amazing job with the students, staff, and parents! He always has a positive attitude and is a great role model for the students he is around. Mr. Maurice works hard every day to make the classroom fun and enjoyable for all of his students. [...]
Great Shake Out
Sierra participated in the annual Great Shake Out on October 17th at 10:17am. This is an event was started in California, however it is practiced all over the world to help prepare for an Earthquake where students practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold on." Thank you to all of our [...]
Staff of the Month: Abby
What impact has Abby had on colleagues and students over the past month? Abby has been an essential asset to our team over the past month. She has taken on several new roles and responsibilities this school year. Abby is an integral part of our incentive [...]
Student of the Month: Gavin
What has Gavin done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Over the past month we have been searching for a student who has shown significant growth and represented the schools core values well. I'd like to introduce to you Gavin Hamlin. He [...]
Staff of the Month: Shanti
What impact has Shanti had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Newman shows a level of compassion, care, and understanding when working with both colleagues and students. She is determined to build relationships with her colleagues and students that fosters modeling of positive [...]
Student of the Month: James
What has James done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? James was selected for student of the month due to extremely positive behavior, academic strides, and his overall motivation to succeed at High Road School of Wallingford Primary/Middle. James reached Gold Day [...]
Staff of the Month: Adiva
What impact has Adiva had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Bady makes everyone feel welcomed, while safeguarding the privacy and security of the students and our building. Ms. Bady is consistently one of the first to arrive and last to leave. She has [...]
Staff of the Month: Erin
What impact has Erin had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. LeCain has taken on a leadership role with both students and new staff in her class helping organize and demonstrate how to have success with the model. She is a [...]
Staff of the Month: Andre
What impact has Mr. Evans had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mr. Evans has been a one to one paraprofessional at High Road School of New London since April of 2019. In that time, he has built a positive relationship with [...]
Student of the Month: Solimar
What impact has Solimar had on colleagues and students over the past month? As a veteran staff and the Handle with Care Trainer in the building, Ms. Mercado has been an integral part of the team this school year. She assisted in training all staff in [...]
Student of the Month: Ana
What has Ana done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Ana was nominated by her classroom staff for a vote with all of the Hartford Primary staff. Ana was chosen for many reasons. Ana has had some challenges at the start of [...]
Staff of the Month: Christine
What impact has Christine had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Hartwich is new to the High Road School of Hartford High team although she began her High Road career at our Primary School in 2014. When the opportunity to teach in our [...]
Student of the Month: Bryan
What has Bryan done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Bryan has excelled in the last month in academics and especially on his most recent i-Ready diagnostic assessment! He has been working hard on maintaining school appropriate behaviors “Bryan is very motivated [...]
Student of the Month: Isabella
What has Isabella done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Isabella comes to school every day with a positive attitude and a big smile on her face as soon as she steps off the bus! Isabella has worked very hard and shown [...]
Staff of the Month: Aimee
What impact has Aimee had on colleagues and students over the past month? We are very pleased to announce High Road School of Fairfield County staff of the month is Mrs. Russo! Mrs. Russo has worked for High Road since 2013! She is our transition coordinator [...]
Student of the Month: Darian
What has Darian done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Darian is a very hard-working 5th grade student in Mr. Koffi’s class here at High Road Lower School. This month Darian has displayed exemplary Blue level behavior. He is always willing to [...]
Student of the Month: Jordan
Jordan is currently on Blue Day 28 about to receive Gold status. He is prompt, on time, and genuinely a good person. Jordan is always willing to help someone in need if he is able to. An active participant in class, Jordan keeps everyone thinking by asking the [...]
Staff of the Month: Tashiemia
What impact has Tashiemia had on colleagues and students over the past month? Tashiemia demonstrates punctuality and professionalism daily. She takes excellent data collection on Catalyst and demonstrates strength in conscientiously implementing programs. Tashiemia implements targets as written by the teacher and gives thoughtful feedback on [...]
Student of the Month: Jay
It has been such an honor to be part of Jay’s education. To watch him grow to the point where he can focus on tasks and start to truly explore his academics has been a great joy. What has Jay done over the [...]
Student of the Month: Zander
Zander has been chosen to be student of the month! Xander has shown great improvement in his behavior and in the way that he treats others. He has overcome a lot of things not only in his school, but in his personal life as well and [...]
Football In Full Swing
Football is in full swing this fall here at Sierra Academy! The varsity team is 2:1 this season with a team full of amazing talent. The students are showing tremendous growth in leadership skills, time-management, handling success and failure, perseverance and keeping healthy! Come join us for our next [...]
Oma’s Pumpkin Patch
On October 1st, three classes started off the fall season with an exciting trip to Oma's Pumpkin Patch! Upon arriving, the classes learned that Oma's Pumpkin Patch was named after the owners grandma, who is Dutch! The students then took a hay ride past the sunflower field [...]
Staff of the Month: Adi
Congratulations to our staff of the month for September, Ms. Adi Martin. Ms. Martin teaches our high school diploma bound classroom. After 1 year as an assistant, Ms. Martin stepped into the role as classroom teacher and has done exceptionally well. Not only has Ms. Martin jumped [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. Perelli
Our staff of the month for September is Ms. Perelli! Ms. Perelli works with the High Road School of Wallingford as a 1:1 paraprofessional. Throughout this past month, she has been an integral part of the transition classroom where she has been a tremendous leader and encourages [...]
Student of the Month: Dakota
Dakota is a twelfth grader in Ms. Lieberman’s class. Dakota has done an exemplary job this September of having a growth mindset and being a positive role model for his classmates. Dakota re-earned gold status at the beginning of the month after working hard all summer staying [...]
Student Spotlight – Devin Ingram
Devin Ingram is a 9th grade student at High Road Upper School. He came to us from the Lower School in September and Devin has excelled as a high school student! Every morning Devin comes to school with a smile on his face, ready to joke [...]
Career Fair at Ripken Stadium
High Road School of Harford County students attended a career fair on October 10, 2019 at the Ripken Stadium. This provided students the opportunity to find jobs and internships, network, and put their communication skills at work. Each student who attended was fully engaged in the event, asked employers [...]
Spirit Week
Spirit week will be held at High Road School of Delaware from Oct. 8th- Nov. 1st! Stay tuned for more details! Visit our website to learn more about High Road School
One Senior’s Adventure to Success
Crystal B. is a senior in high school, who is close to the last leg of her journey. Graduation is right around the corner and the idea of school work can be a thing of the past. From struggling with her attendance and classwork over the past [...]
Making Progress
Anthony M. has been in the High Road program for three years and has made amazing improvement since he began. He has consistently increased his time in the general education classroom which is our goal as a High Road team. Currently, Anthony simply checks in with High [...]
Celebrating Our Staff
We enjoy celebrating our staff and thus far this school year 12 staff have had perfect attendance! Staff earned a pizza party to celebrate. Shout out to Mr. Gove, Mr. B, Ms. Martin, Ms. Barela, Ms. S, Ms. Renze, Ms. Q, Mr. Bielik, Mr. Brooks, and not pictured, Mrs. [...]
Student of the Month: September
Septembers student of the month is Sergio Gonzales. Sergio is silver level, on one of the highest behavior levels. Sergio has worked very hard to earn silver level and improve his social interaction skills and anger management. Sergio has been a student with High Road Upper for [...]
It’s Hockey Time
Students at High Road School at Lockerman Middle school have been practicing their dribbling, passing and puck skills during their P.E. class. By the end of the quarter student will be able to develop and apply principles of attack versus defense in small sided games of hockey. [...]
September Student of the Month
Our High Road Program at Frankford student of the month for September is Saniya. Saniya was nominated by the staff due to her hard work and achievements this month. Staff members report that Saniya not only has a positive attitude but has the best attendance of the [...]
September Staff of the Month
Our High Road Program at Frankford staff of the month for September is Mr. Matt Brunetto! Mr. Matt has been a teacher at our school since September 2018. Staff members nominated Mr. Matt due to his attention to detail, his preparation of lessons, and his passion for [...]
Student of the Month: Gabriel
What has Gabriel done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Gabe recently came into the High Road classroom as an 8th grader. Gabe has meet and exceed all goals set for him this year. Gabe enjoys social studies and gaming. Gabe is [...]
Staff of the Month: Joanna
Joanna Doberstein has been awarded the staff of the month for September. Joanna is the teacher in the B.E.S.T. classroom. Entering just her second year as the teacher in that classroom, Joanna has done an amazing job creating a positive classroom culture. Working with our ASD population, [...]
Student of the Month: Sumarie
The student of the month for September was awarded to Sumarie Velez. Sue is a senior this year and just started her third year at the High Road Program at Ferguson. The overwhelming consensus among the staff who voted was that Sue has dramatically increased her level [...]
September “Friendship” Classroom Winners
Congratulations to our September "Friendship" Classroom winners: Rowan, Chris, Mickey, Austin, Jaire, and Chase! We're looking forward to October's theme of "Being On Task". Visit our website to learn more about Sierra Academy
October Newsletter
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Fall Football Schedule
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October Events
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Attendance Award Winners
Visit our website to learn more about Sierra Academy
Staff Spotlight: Taylor
Taylor has shown leadership skills among staff, and has proven to be an effective team member by taking initiative and helping out wherever he is needed. His classroom is pretty on point, too. He's got great command over and facilitation of the rotations and level systems. [...]
Student of the Month: Chayton
Chayton has displayed excellent academic performance and behavioral management in the classroom for the first month of school. He always participates during instruction and consistently raises his hand when wanting to comment. He also is a motivator for his classmates and leads by example by making [...]
Student Success: Vashann
Vashann R. has been one of many students to standout at the High Road Upper School. Vashann has had numerous successes including achieving blue level. One of his biggest accomplishments occurred this spring when Vashan represented his school at the Jalen White Regional Spelling Bee held [...]
Staff of the Month: Devin
Devin Jones is joining us for his second year here at High Road Lower School as an Assistant Teacher in one of our Middle School classrooms. There are countless reasons why Devin has been voted Staff of the Month. These reasons include his willingness to help [...]
Staff of the Month: Ms. J (Malry)
Ms. J (Malry) began her career here in the Spring of 2019 as an Assistant Teacher. She learned the High Road Model very quickly. Her vast knowledge of special education and ability to learn made her the ideal staff. She has dedicated her time to working [...]
Student of the Month: Albert
The September student of the month is Albert R, he was selected because he exemplifies the chosen mindfulness trait of the month every day that he enters the building. Kindness means to be friendly, generous, and considerate. These are traits that describe Albert perfectly. He is [...]
Staff / Student of the Month
What impact has Matthew had on colleagues and students over the past month? Matthew has been extremely helpful in helping all students and staff with daily activities for the Month of September. Matthew gets the daily breakfast for each student within our school. He is also [...]
Staff of the Month: Brett Leonard
What impact has Brett had on colleagues and students over the past month?She demonstrates a positive attitude while interacting with other staff and all of the students in the school. Why did other staff members select Brett as Staff of the Month?She's always willing to assist and help [...]
Student Spotlight: Andre M.
Andre M. is a current Senior at High Road Academy. Andre has become a member of the DORS Pre-ETS program, which assists Maryland students with job placement. Andre was able to obtain a job at Planet Fitness in Seat Pleasant, MD where he cleans [...]
Working Hard, Playing Hard
Last week students had the opportunity to earn a trip to the water park. All students who worked hard throughout the week completing all their I-Ready testing and having excellent behavior got to spend the day cooling off, making friends and enjoying a BBQ at the local [...]
Student of the Month: Aaron
Student of the month for St. Marks is Aaron A. He’s been doing a great job both academically and behaviorally. He has been such a hard worker during van crew and janitorial crew and has gained so much more independence in completing the work tasks. Aaron has [...]
Student of the Month: Marcus
Meet our Student of the Month - Marcus! Marcus is a 10th grade student who started a part-time transition to his school of residence at the beginning of the current school year. Marcus attends Sierra School for the first four periods of the day before moving [...]
Staff Spotlight: Erin Rossi
Erin is our newest hired teacher and is already showing amazing natural talent. She has built rapport with all of her students and continues to feed off of their strengths to make their classroom a successful and fun place to learn. Erin has also gone above and [...]
Sierra Strong
Sierra Strong is a morning exercise program focusing on getting ready for the school day by participating in energizing activities that will help to maintain focus, and attention to the task. Participating in Sierra Strong helps us to have a strong body and strong mind. Below is the [...]
Welcome to Hogwarts
Welcome to Hogwarts! Our middle school classroom begun reading The Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling in early September. The class has really enjoyed the book, so much so that they transformed their classroom into Hogwarts! The students were very excited to showcase their room on back to school night! [...]
Staff of the Month: Kristen Crosby
What impact has Kristen had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mrs. Kristen is now in her entering her 5th school year and 3rd year working with Mr. Joe and the lower high school students here at the High Road School of Harford County. She [...]
New School Year and New Team Members
Here at High Road School of Fairfield County we have new and exciting things (and faces) happening here! We are very pleased to announce Ms. Rodriguez, who was our Elementary Classroom teacher has decided to take on the role of High School teacher for this school year! We [...]
Staff of the Month: Allena Hall
Ms. Hall has worn many hats for High Roads High of Hartford High. She usually acts as a seasoned Teachers Assistant but has stepped into this position in the temporary absence of our regular administrative assistant, Mrs. Carrillo. In her time at High Road Ms. Hall has [...]
Staff of the Month: Julie Mallette
What impact has Julie had on colleagues and students over the past month? Julie goes above and beyond to make sure everyone is welcome and comfortable every chance she gets. She is always helping out where she can to ensure the success of not only our [...]
Student of the Month: Spencer
What has Spencer done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Spencer B. has been at Sierra School of Weld County for nearly three years and is only 2 months away from graduating. Spencer shows up everyday with a positive yet humorous attitude and [...]
Student of the Month: Sophia
Sophia is an exceptional student. She always goes above and beyond on her school work and is encouraging to other students. She was recently elected as co-representative for her classroom and has done amazing at being a voice for her peers. Sophia takes great pride in [...]
Staff and Student of the Month
Ms. Rian Bear-Flores and Dallas Christensen For the month of September Ms. Rian Bear-Flores and Dallas Christensen were selected as staff and student of the month. Ms. Rian's charisma, hard work and dedication with the students led her to be selected as staff of [...]
Student of the Month: Brendon
Brendon, 6th grade Brendon has shown excellent behavior this month. Brendon is barely prompted because he is able to self-regulate his thoughts. Brendon is a leader in the classroom and is always willing to help when asked. What has Brendon done [...]
Staff of the Month: Tori
Tori Emery – Teacher Assistant, Elementary BEST What impact has Tori had on colleagues and students over the past month? Tori goes above and beyond in the classroom and has been very helpful with the new staff in helping them with the students. Tori [...]
Student of the Month: Kolten
Kolten C., 1st Grade What has Kolten done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Over the past month Kolten has achieved his alphabet and 25/25 of his sight words. Kolten has became very outgoing this year and loves helping his [...]
Staff of the Month: Kimberly
What impact has Kimberly had on colleagues and students over the past month?So far this year Kim has been integral in implementing behavior interventions to assist staff with achieving both academic and behavioral goals. Kim has been a support to teachers in their classroom by providing behavior [...]
Staff of the Month: Sam Peterson
What impact has Sam had on colleagues and students over the past month? Ms. Sam has worked as a teacher at our school since the 2018/2019 school year. Last school year, Ms. Sam taught our Middle School students, and this year she has been working with [...]
Staff of the Month: Robert Young
What impact has Robert had on colleagues and students over the past month? Robert has an unwavering dedication to students, staff, parents and program! In addition to being the Transitions Coordinator, he is also a Certified Trainer for NPCI, Assistant Supervisor and IT in training! Why [...]
Student of the Month: Nicolas
What has Nicolas done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Nicolas is a newer student to High Road School. He always come to school with a positive attitude, is a blue level student and has outstanding manners! What has Nicolas accomplished so [...]
Student of the Month: Xavier
What has Xavier done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Xavier has started this school year with an excellent attitude and desire to be successful in the classroom. He brings his contagious smile to school every single day and his attitude has [...]
Staff of the Month: Mrs. Scherer
What impact has Mrs. Scherer had on colleagues on students over the past month? Allyson has had a great start to the school year. She has encouraged exemplary behavior in all of her students, and is prepared for all aspects of her day.. Why do other [...]
Student of the Month: Dom
What has Dom done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? Dom has showcased a positive mindset and has been an excellent role model this school year. he can be found assisting staff members and completing jobs throughout the school. Dom plans on [...]
Student of the Month: Jariel
What has Jariel done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month?So far this school year, Jariel has obtained our highest behavioral level. Jariel has perfect attendance. His success and work ethic has earned him an LRE (Least Restrictive Environment) placement starting at the end [...]
Student of the Month: Yomali
Yomali has been with Sierra for a few months and has been a great role model to his fellow classmates. Yomali is a hard worker, he always spends extra time on his assignments ensuring his answers are always correct. He is kind and respectful to both his [...]
Student of the Month: Ayanna
Ayanna rarely has any trouble staying on task with her work. She is a friend and helpful to all of her peers in the classroom, and on campus. She always has a positive and comedic outlook, and she can make anyone smile with her wit and creativity. [...]
Student of the Month: Aaron
Aaron has made significant behavioral progress. His behaviors up till the end of summer consisted of crying shortly after lunch through dismissal daily. He would run out of the classroom at any given opportunity and head towards the exit of the building. His crying has stopped completely. [...]
Super Hero of the Week
Derris Hurth was nominated as, “The Super Hero of the Week” by his class. Not only is he a friend to his peers, Derris helps his peers both academically and with offering advice. Derris has demonstrated the “power” to arrive daily and to transition from rotation to [...]
Monday Money Madness
We will be continuing this year in our efforts toward financial literacy. We have partnered again with Junior Achievement Finance Park and will be attending an all school trip in May to complete their simulation for the 2nd year in a row. Weekly we will be engaging in [...]
Meet our Social Worker
Alisha McCanney LCSW – School Social Worker Alisha began her career with High Road School in 2015. Previously she worked with Wraparound Delaware supporting youth in mental health court, truancy court, and low level supervision. Visit our website to learn more about [...]
First Flag Football Game: 9/25
On Wednesday, September 25th our Blue and Green Level students will compete in our first flag football game of the season. Visit our website to learn more about High Road School
Autism Cruise from a Staff’s Perspective
One of our amazing staff members, Michael Shashaty, had the pleasure of traveling on the Autism Cruise over the summer. Prior to this summer, I had never been on a plane. Before that, I had visited only a handful of states. Traveling was not something I [...]
Student of the Month: Levon
Levon B. – 8th Grade What has Levon done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month?? Levon comes to school with a smile and an eagerness to succeed. He can usually be found assisting his teacher in the classroom and completing jobs [...]
Staff of the Month: Dan Jones, Special Education Teacher
What impact has Charlie had on colleagues and students over the past month? Dan has done an exemplary job stepping into his new role as teacher this school year. His passion and desire to educate the students is palpable with the staff. His lessons involve excellent [...]
Staff of the Month: Charlie Mitchell, Transition Coordinator
What impact has Charlie had on colleagues and students over the past month? Charlie joined our team in August and has jumped right in to the High Road model! He is always willing to cover a classroom, take a student for a break and is quick [...]
Student of the Month: Kaydence
What has Kaydence done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month?? Kady has been selected as Student of the Month because her effort and enthusiasm has been noticed by so many this month. She is a very responsible, motivated, and passionate student. She [...]
New Associate Program Director, Kevin Savage
New Associate Program Director, Kevin Savage has been with High Road School since 2012 when he started as a special education teacher. Since then Kevin has grown into an emergent leader and now looks forward to tackling the new 2019-2020 school year as the new Associate [...]
Staff of the Month: Brandon
There's not enough good things I can say about Mr. Brandon. He implements the model with fidelity, consistency, and validity. He displays true grit. We are so happy that Mr. Brandon could be a part of our teaching team. We are looking forward to all of his creative, [...]
Student of the Month: Valeria
Valeria is in High School 1. Since she has started the school year she has not missed any days, She has hit the ground running this year with her class work. She has participated in reading in front of the class out loud to all of [...]
Meet the Team: Jean Rogers
Meet our Administrative Assistant, Mrs. Jean Rogers! Mrs. Rogers has been working at Sierra School since March of 2017. She started out as an Assistant Teacher before moving into her current role in August of the same year. The list of tasks and projects that Mrs. [...]
Staff Interview with Brittany Dotson
Q: You are now in your 5th school year with High Road, what is your favorite part of the program? A: The culture of our program... hands down. I am grateful to come to a place of work that allows the opportunity to Change Lives. Q: [...]
Staff Spotlight – Lucy Maloney
Ms. Lucy Maloney started at Springall in Spring of 2018 as a San Diego State Volunteer (SDSU). She worked in our middle school classroom volunteering for a class she was taking at SDSU to complete her undergraduate degree. She was then hired on as a full-time employee in [...]
Staff Spotlight – Cayla Landers-Connaughton
Cayla Landers-Connaughton recently started with us back in August. Since her very first day she has exhibited amazing teamwork with all her peers, a compassionate heart with the students, and a positive attitude, no matter the situation. We are very happy to have her as part of our [...]
Staff of the Month – St. Mark’s
Ms. C was voted as our August Star of the Month. She joined our team last year and has had nothing but a positive attitude since starting with us. She currently works as a 1:1 for a student in our Transition classroom but is always ready and willing [...]
Staff of the Month – Marconi
Mr. Glines and Ms. Degrate were voted as co-stars of the month at Sierra Marconi for the month of August. Mr. Glines is the teacher in Room 1 and Ms. Degrate is one of the Teaching assistants in Classroom 1. Both of these staff have dealt with some [...]
Staff of the Month: Marlene Sanchez
My staff of the month is Marlene Sanchez. Marlene exceeds expectations in all areas. She is punctual and has sustained an excellent attendance record since her first day of employment. She maintains accurate records of all students assigned to her. She takes initiative by offering assistance to teachers [...]
Meet our Social Worker
Jeff Pincin, School Social Worker Jeff Pincin has been at High Road School of Delaware since summer 2018. Prior to joining the High Road School of Delaware team, Jeff Pincin worked as a mobile therapist with kids in foster care and at-risk families. Jeff Pincin earned his Bachelor's [...]
Meet our Associate Director
Richelle LaFage-Sutton, Associate Director of Education Richelle Sutton joined Specialized Education Services, Inc. in August, 2014 and is currently the Associate Director of Education with High Road School of Delaware. She has served in numerous roles during her tenure with High Road School; including assistant teacher, medical technician, [...]
Student of the Month: Michael
Michael is a middle school student on our Sierra – Fremont campus. Not only does he excel on our Sierra Fremont campus, but he does exceptional with transitioning to the mainstream middle school campus. He is a huge help around the campus and is always willing [...]
Staff Spotlight: Jonique Andrews, District Teacher
Jonique Andrews began at Sierra School of Antioch as an assistant teacher and made the move last year to district teacher at our Sierra Fremont site in room 1. Mr. Andrews is a huge asset to our team and is always going above and beyond to [...]
Student of the Month: Christopher
What has Christopher done over the past month to achieve Student of the Month? During the month of September Christopher is a student who set a positive example for his peers. He works hard not only on himself, but to help his peers when he can. [...]
The Lion King Tryouts
On September 5, theater and choir try outs were held for our Winter performance of The Lion King. Students practiced their audition line "The great kings of the past look down on us from those stars." During theater and choir, students will work on memorization, speech, and acting. This [...]
Welcome Mr. Dillon!
Sierra Academy would like to welcome Mr. Shane Dillon as a first year teacher! He has started the school year with enthusiasm, passion, and commitment. He redid his classroom over summer break and the students walked in excited and motivated to learn. Mr. Dillon has volunteered to get involved [...]
Staff & Student of the Month
Staff of the Month: Jacob Kinney It would not be a school year at Sierra without a few bumps and hiccups. I always tell my staff it is not about what we encounter but how we recover. That being said I am so incredibly thankful [...]
Back-to-School Tips for K-12 Educators
Welcome to the 2019-20 school year! Whether you're finishing your preparation for students to return or already a few weeks into instruction, right now is an exciting and busy time. We support over 300,000 students through 500 district partners across the country each year, and we've compiled a set [...]
Getting Crafty at Diablo Vista
Sierra School (Diablo Vista) is getting crafty! After learning what mosaics were our students were able to try to make some of their own. Students took their time to create intricate designs and asked staff for help when needed. They are all extremely proud of their creations [...]
Department of Defense Education Activity Selects Catapult Learning to Deliver Special Education Services
Professional Development Program for Special Education Teachers Will Focus on Best Practices for Teaching K-12 Students with Significant Cognitive Disabilities. September 15, 2019 – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of special education, instructional intervention, behavioral health and professional development solutions, today announced the U.S. Department of Defense Education Activity [...]
Meet Our Team
Simran Bhangu "Sierra School reminds me everyday why I love working with children. Even within a stressful environment I have a team who motivated me and is always there to help! I am able to go to anyone and receive help without hesitation. I love making a difference [...]
Back-to-School Tips for Principals (Part 2)
The new school year is well underway – and hopefully off to a great start. As the principal of your school, the tone you set in these early days serves as the foundation for the months to come. You have likely already established habits that promote an open and [...]
Back-to-School Tips for Superintendents (Part 2)
The new school year is well underway. As superintendent of your district, your leadership sets the tone for how the months to come will unfold. You likely have already visited your schools and made contact with all of your principals and teachers. They know you are there to help, [...]
Student of the Month: Aiden
Aiden is a kind and outgoing young man who loves to greet his peers and staff with a big high five each day. Aiden shines during his class’ weekly off campus outing to the Ability 360 Sports and Fitness Center, where he models excellent behavior, always [...]
Student of the Month: Julian
Julian was given student of the month for his helpfulness. He is willing to assist staff in various errands and jobs. Julian has assisted in collecting and taking out the trash. He also assisted at the food truck and helping Mr. Lopez unload Fun Friday snacks. [...]
Therapy Services & Zones of Regulation
Students will be participating in the “Zones of Regulation” curriculum. This curriculum includes lessons and activities designed by Leah Kuypers to help our students gain skills in the area of self regulation. This is used in addition to our “point sheet” behavioral management program that is used school [...]
Meet the Team: Salvador Ramirez
Salvador Ramirez, Program Director The daily experience is what keeps me here. You would think that after 22 years here, I wouldn’t have anything surprise me, but that’s not the case. Over my career here at Leeway, I’ve worked as an aide, driver, [...]
Local school that serves students with special needs to open
High Road School of Windham County aims to serve local school districts who have exhausted all local options in attempting to serve the needs of students with various special needs. The school could serve students with a wide range of conditions—from emotional disturbance and ADHD to those on the [...]
New Classroom Sneak Peek
We are excited to kick off the 2019-2020 school year at Sierra Academy of San Diego. Staff have been working hard on getting classrooms ready for students to come back on Tuesday, August 28th>! We look forward to seeing the students, working with families, and our exciting events this [...]
Staff of the Month: Mindy Link
What impact has Mindy had on colleagues and students over the past month? Mindy is receiving this award for her initiative and talent in supervising the on-campus job, Coffee Cart. Mindy has been innovative in working with the students to create stellar coffee services for all [...]
Catapult Learning’s Little Leaves opens third behavioral health center
White Marsh, MD Location Provides New Resource for Families Seeking High-Quality Applied Behavioral Analysis Treatment.August 13, 2019, White Marsh, Md./Camden, NJ – Little Leaves Behavioral Services, a division of Catapult Learning and a leading provider of center-based behavioral health services for children, today announced the opening of its new center [...]
Back-to-School Tips for Principals (Part 1)
It’s August at last and that means students across the country are back in the classroom. It’s a time when students anticipate new clothes, school supplies, lessons and experiences. Your faculty and staff spent a portion of their summer preparing for a great 2019-20 school year. As principal, you [...]
Back-to-School Tips for Superintendents (Part 1)
School is in session across the country and that means communities are coming together for the 2019-2020 academic year. Your principals, teachers and staff have already welcomed students back into the classroom. Students are reconnecting with one another and anticipating many new and exciting lessons and experiences. As superintendent, [...]
Jayla’s 8th Grade Year
We are so proud of Jayla’s progress this school year. After receiving the beautiful picture of her at the 8th grade dance, we all thought it would be a good idea for her write a short story about her experience in our program this year. Thank you [...]
Staff of the Month: May 2019
Our High Road Hartford Primary Staff of the month is Mr. Diaz! Every month all staff members choose another staff member to nominate and the person with the most nominations earns this award. This month, our staff nominated Mr. Diaz because he is always willing to help around [...]
New Sensory Room for VTOs
Social workers Ms. Gibson and Mrs. Rossetti have been hard at work creating a new sensory room for students to utilize for VTOs! This new room includes a HUGE poster that students can color, a Yogibo for students to chill out on, a yoga corner, a collection of [...]
Student of the Month May 2019
Our High Road Hartford Primary student of the month for May is Ana! Students who win student of the month are nominated by their teachers and are selected through a voting process with the staff at the school. Ana has worked very hard all year to improve and [...]
Summer School Enrollment Increases for St. Joseph School District
The St. Joseph School District said the number of students enrolled in summer school for 2019 has increased since last year. The district gave credit for the increase to their new summer school provider, Catapult Learning. They said 1,300 more students have signed up for summer classes compared to [...]
SJSD Sets Sights on Summer School
As the final day of classes approaches, those in the St. Joseph School District are gearing up for a new summer school program. Summer Journeys through the company Catapult Learning LLC is different from the district’s in-house programs of the past, focusing on STEM-based projects and classes like robotics [...]
Family Fun Day
High Road School of Bloomington is hosting a family fun day on Friday, May 24th. Parents, siblings, and extended family are welcome to come to the school from 12:00 to 2:10 to eat lunch and participate in the planned activities. Come join us and celebrate summer! [...]
Student Spotlight: Loggie
Loggie, Age 5 — Kindergarten My favorite teacher is Ms. Brenna. She is nice and helps me! I am listening to my teachers and my Mom more. I like to play with the construction men during Motor Lab. It really [...]
Catapult Learning Offers Resources to Combat Summer Learning Loss
Learning Bags and Summer School Programs Keep Young Minds Engaged CAMDEN, N.J., May 01, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions, today announced the availability of its 2019 Student Learning Bag & Lending Library Catalog, offering a cost-effective way to supply [...]
Aurora Day School holds prom for students with autism in Peoria
Good Morning AZ visited the Aurora Day School on Friday April 26th to take in the sights and sounds of their 2019 Prom! The students were so excited to be able to celebrate their prom together and everyone worked hard on the theme "A Night In Paris" as well as [...]
Career Day
On April 10, 2019, Sierra Academy and Springall Academy teamed up to host the annual Career Day Fair event for our students. We had 13 vendors with different jobs come out to allow students the opportunity to learn about the people in our community. These vendors included a Padres [...]
Helping Students With Autism Reach Their Goals
Amy Farmer, Education Director at B.E.S.T. Academy, recently wrote an opinion piece in the The CT Mirror entitled "Helping Students With Autism Reach Their Goals." "While our students might interpret the world differently, their thoughts, fears and hopes are no less important. It’s part of our job to ensure [...]
Op-Ed: Learn About Individuals With Autism
Thomas Roberts, Program Director of the Sierra School at Main Street, recently wrote an opinion piece in the The Daily Camera entitled "Learn About Individuals With Autism." "April marks Autism Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise understanding, beyond the statistics, about people who are differently abled. It is about [...]
Autism Isn’t a Defining Characteristic for Those on The Spectrum
Brandi Eagling, Program Director of the Sierra Academy of San Diego, recently wrote a opinion piece in the Times of San Diego entitled "Autism Isn’t a Defining Characteristic for Those on The Spectrum." In the piece, Brandi explains how people sometimes do not see all the ways our students [...]
Self-Advocacy Projects
Students were encouraged to personalize a puzzle piece as part of Autism Awareness Month. Many students answered the question “I am me because…"
Preparing Students for Independence
Aaron O'Neil, Program Director of the High Road School of Wright City, recently wrote a letter to the editor of the Warren County Record entitled "Preparing Students for Independence." In this letter, Aaron discussed the importance of the work he and his staff do to prepare their students for [...]
When your child’s education calls for a holistic approach
All students have dynamic needs, but when traditional education isn’t working for your child, it may be time to consider alternatives. Often educators look to add academic or behavioral interventions but fail to program strategies that support students’ holistic needs. When educators take a holistic approach that [...]
Meet the Team: Mary Claire Engel
Mary Claire Engel, PLPC I chose to go into the mental health field because I wanted to be equipped with the skills to support others in enacting positive changes in their lives. I currently have my master's in Clinical Mental [...]
Meet the Team: Amy Beirne
Amy Beirne, Certified Special Education Teacher I did a lot of volunteer work in college working with kids: after school programs, partners in reading through the local library, child advocate, and volunteer work at the juvenile detention center. I absolutely loved working [...]
Breakfast Club
Visit our website to learn more about Sierra School
Meet the Team: Jessican Whelan
Jessica Whelan, Teaching Assistant My mom is lower functioning and I have been around disabilities her whole life. It has always been my dream to work with people that have special needs. My routine is pretty consistent, focused on assisting kids in [...]
A Silver Accomplishment
Robert J. is a 13 year old 7th grade student at the High Road Lower School in Lanham, MD. Robert has been a student at High Road for 2 years. Robert is a silver level student, and has made great progress in the areas of grades, following directions, [...]
March Students of the Month
Students from Academic I and II were awarded Student of the Month for March. These students demonstrated academic improvements, increased positive behaviors, maintained positive relationships with their classmates and school staff, and exemplified character traits of honesty and trustworthiness. Visit our website [...]
Wearing Blue for Autism Awareness Month
Visit our website to learn more about High Road Programs at Ferguson & Frankford – IU #26
Student Highlight – Skyler
This month we would like to showcase one of our bright and promising seniors at Snow Hill High School. Skyler just turned 18 and has begun thinking about his plans and goals after high school. His hobbies are video gaming, talking with friends in online forums, and creating [...]
Read-a-thon
Sierra's Read-a-thon in March was a great success with our students reading nearly 10,000 minutes or 167 hours outside of school! Many students earned reading certificates and homework passes. The following fourteen students read enough minutes to earn a pizza party: Josiah, Sonny, Annalise, Meayva, Andre, Simon, Saul, Andres, Bryce, [...]
A new partnership that will change the way teachers across the country teach reading
A new collaboration between The University of Oregon and Catapult Learning is laying the foundation for improving curriculum and teaching approaches in schools across the country. With proven results, the program is gaining so much interest that there is already a backlog in training requests. “ A new partnership [...]
Student of the Month March 2019
Our High Road Hartford Primary Student of the Month for March is Emanuel! Emanuel is a 6th grade student in Mr. Dilella’s class. Emanuel has been a part of our program for the last two school years. Emanuel gets along with his classmates and staff members. Over the [...]
Student Spotlight: Jihree W.
Student Spotlight Jihree W. – 2nd Grade Ms. Carolyn and Ms. Kim and Ms. Karie. They like to do my bins. They like when I do work. I am very proud of doing such a good job. I am proud of my [...]
Staff of the Month – March 2019
Our High Road Hartford Primary Staff of the Month for March is Ms. Carly Weber! Ms. Weber has worked as a teacher at our school since September 2017. Last school year, Ms. Weber taught our Middle School students, and this year she has been working as our Kindergarten [...]
Student Spotlight: Leanna S.
Student Spotlight Leanna S. – 12th Grade Ms. Brianna is my favorite teacher. I have known her for a long time, and she has been very helpful. I enjoy doing all the fun activities we have and all the fun [...]
Student Spotlight: Kaliyah W.
Student Spotlight Kaliyah W. – 8th Grade Ms. Tracey is my favorite teacher. She is helpful, but pushes me to try harder. Ms. Tracey says I can do anything that I put to my mind. She says that I have potential [...]
Student Spotlight: Ashton G.
Student Spotlight Ashton G. – 1st Grade Ashton used a communication device to speak to us about his time at Sierra Academy and what he enjoys about school, his teachers, and classmates. I like Ms. Mya. She is the teacher [...]
Meet the Team: Halen Boykin-Rudolph
Halen Boykin-Rudolph, Lead Assistant Teacher I have always loved kids and wanted to make a difference in young lives. I stuck with autism because I know what it is like to be unable to communicate wants and needs. Develop [...]
Student Spotlight: Alex M.
Alex M. — 5th Grade Mr. Smith because he is really nice. Letting other kids take VTOs (voluntary timeouts) before me. I've been working on it and I'm perfect at it! Lunch, I really like eating lunch. [...]
Student Spotlight: Dominick H.
Dominick H. — 6th Grade Mrs. Houdek because she is funny and helpful. Moving up in Mr. Walker's class. On a scale of 1 to 1 million I am 2 million times happy and proud! My friends and [...]
Student Spotlight: Nick L.
Student Spotlight Nick L. – 11th Grade Ms. Lexi Miller. She’s really fun and really nice. She has an all-around great personality. We learn a lot from her. That sounds like something we are discussing on our podcast; disability [...]
Meet the Team: Jeff Pincin
Jeff Pincin, LACMH, Counselor I chose the field of counseling to help others achieve their full potential and overcome obstacles in their lives. I rejoice when the dissonance between a desired life and actual life is minimized. My day-to-day includes [...]
Student Spotlight: Dakota H.
Student Spotlight Dakota F. – 9th Grade Mr. Holloway because we do speech, sit in the hallways together, and he helps me take my breaks. Math! I've been counting quarters on the computer. I really like lunch time and [...]
Student Spotlight: Ramon L.
Student Spotlight Ramon L. – 12th Grade Mr. G, our transition coordinator, always makes me laugh. Also, Ms. Rembisz, my classroom teacher, has a positive energy level and is also really good at teaching me math. I am really proud [...]
Meet the Team: Ashley Fitzgerald
Ashley Fitzgerald, Special Education Teacher I made this decision back in high school, after working with the best buddy program which paired me with a student with an intellectual disability. I did things with this person at school and in the [...]
Student Spotlight: Holanie F.
Holanie F. — 10th Grade Mrs. Brianna because she is special. She is a really fun teacher. One time, in class, I was able to fix Ms. Ashley's smartboard when 3 other teacher's didn't know how to fix it. [...]
Student Spotlight: Meaghan C.
Meaghan C. — 8th Grade I genuinely enjoy it here. Some of my favorite teachers are Mrs. Bonilla, Ms. Jenny and Mrs. Caliri. Ms. Jenny and Ms. Bonilla often talk to me about my problems and cheer me up when I [...]
Student Spotlight: Du’Quan B
Du'Quan B. — 8th Grade My favorite teachers are Mr. Adigan and Mr. Jorge, Mr. Adigun is the first staff I met at High Road School. He is always saying that I can do anything I put my mind to. Mr. [...]
Student Highlight – Brandon
Senior Brandon has been working diligently on his course work and his hard work has paid off. Brandon completed an APEX course on college and Career Prep and is one more credit closer to graduation! In College and Career Preparation students obtain a deeper understanding of what it [...]
5 Questions with Justin B.
For this month we would like to showcase our lone Freshman Dustin B. with a short 5 question interview: How are you enjoying your Freshman year? Dustin B: It's good. It started off shaky, but as time passed with help from you guys it became a lot easier. [...]
Year-End Solutions to Support Students and Build Instructor Capacity
Year-End Solutions to Support Students and Build Instructor Capacity According to recent ESSA guidelines, “funds must be obligated for the fiscal year in which they were allocated.” At Catapult Learning, we’re here to help ensure you get the most from your funding. Allocate your school’s year-end funds on turnkey solutions [...]
Teacher Feature: Mr. Koffi
Koffi Senyo is a valued member of the High Road Lower family. Mr. Koffi teaches our older group of Elementary school students and has worked diligently to create a classroom environment that is focused on learning. Students from his class describe Mr. Koffi as being “smart,” and “easy [...]
Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) Leadership Conference
Catapult Learning attended the Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals (MAESP) Leadership Conference at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Missouri from March 2-5, 2019. The Missouri Association of Elementary School Principals is a statewide organization in Missouri that exists to serve the needs of elementary and middle school principals, [...]
Journey to Gold: Jared L
Jared L., 11th Grade Jared L., an 11th grader at High Road Academy, recently reached the Gold Level in the program's school-wide behavior management system. The Gold Level acknowledges when a student has reached a superb level of character and provides a model for other students to [...]
Connecticut judge reads to students at High Road School of Wallingford
Superior Court Judge Julia Dewey recently joined students of the High Road School of Wallingford in a Read Across America event to promote children’s literacy in honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday. Read the Story
National Pi Day Classroom Activity Incorporating STEM and the Engineering Design Process
Pi Day is celebrated each year on March 14 (3/14) as a fun way to commemorate pi (π). March 14th is also Albert Einstein’s birthday. The date represents the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter — the number that begins with 3.14. The holiday’s official website describes [...]
Texas Council of Administrators of Special Education (TCASE) Conference
On February 18th Catapult Learning exhibited at the Texas Council of Administrators of Special Education (TCASE) Conference. The theme of this conference was “Great Ideas.” Hundreds of special education professionals and industry partners gather to exchange time, resources, strategies, solutions, and more. Over three days of learning, we were [...]
Reading Awareness Month Author Visit
Students at the High Road School in Norwalk learned how to dramatically improve their scores on exams thanks to a visit with Professor Paul Hughes, author of “Change Your Grades, Change Your Life.” In a meeting with a group of high school students, Professor Hughes explained how and why [...]
February Highlights – Classroom 4
Visit our website to learn more about Sierra School
What is Occupational Therapy?
What is Occupational Therapy? In the school system, Occupational Therapy Practitioners focus on improving students overall academic improvement by integrating new techniques and giving more support outside of the classroom to improve fine motor skills, handwriting, sensory processing, attention, coordination, visual perception and ADLs (activities of daily living) [...]
Black History Month
For Black History month, the students did research on the famous person they were assigned. Each student had to look up important information about their person, including when and where they were born, important facts about their accomplishments, and their legacy. The children really enjoyed doing this project, [...]
February Student of the Month
February's Student of the Month made an impressive rise through the Level system, worked hard on task completion, showed increased willingness to be flexible, did his best to process directions and stay on task, and averaged an impressive 95% of his daily behavior points and 100% of his [...]
High Road School Partners with Voc Rehab
High Road School of Wright City recently partnered with Vocational Rehabilitation to meet the transitional needs of our high school seniors. We would like to introduce you to Amber Cline, Counselor for Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, who has been working diligently to enroll all of our [...]
Bridgeport Barber Hopes to Inspire Youth to Pursue His Craft
Jason Donalson is a barber at the Cuttin Edge Barber Shop in Bridgeport. He has been working with at-risk youth for years, some with learning disabilities, autism and physical limitations. On Wednesday morning students from the High Road School in Wallingford stopped by for a free haircut, while learning [...]
Money Management
Purcha$e is a fast-paced board game that is perfect for practicing how to identify money values, handle money, make change, and more!
Meet the Team: Katy Miller
Katy Miller, Education Specialist I started working with special education students when I was in high school. I have always been drawn to this population of students and enjoy the challenges and be a part of successes. I decided to continue pursuing [...]
Conquering Tech Ed!
Michael is an eighth grader who has grown immensely in his years with us at High Road. He began taking Technology Education at Snow Hill Middle School this year, learning how to build and make simple machines work. The class was given the assignment to create a project [...]
Meet the Team: Francisco Villar
Francisco Villar, Administrative Director Francisco Villar during a recent college shirt day at Leeway. I enjoy the people with whom I work. Our program provides a stable, safe, and nurturing learning environment for our students. I am proud to be a [...]
Meet the Team: Kristine Stonikas
Kristine Stonikas, Special Education Teacher (LBS1) Originally, I was going for my bachelor’s in Secondary English Education, but ultimately decided that a general education setting was not for me. God guided me to High Road School of Bloomington about a year after [...]
February Elementary Student of the Month
Dayne Harder has been working hard on both his behavioral and academic goals in the classroom. Dayne has been completing reading and math rotations with his teachers and working hard to achieve his points every day. Dayne always comes into class with a smile on his face and [...]
Meet the Team: Marisa Lefebvre
Marisa Lefebvre, Special Education Teacher I love the population of students. I wanted to make a difference in working with students who may not be able to always advocate for themselves. I want to be the support for students who may not [...]
Meet the Team: Anastasia McGlone
Anastasia McGlone, Special Education Teacher I choose education because I realized that I enjoyed working with children and seeing their growth and those “aha” moments when they figured it out. I found my niche with Special Education when I worked with [...]
Meet the Team: Alba Rodriquez
Alba Rodriquez, Special Education Teacher After receiving my Bachelor's degree in General Education, I went on to earn my Master's in Special Education. All along, I've know that I wanted to work with students with special needs. Every single day is [...]
Student & Staff of the Month- February
Andy Correa, a 7th grade student has been selected to be High Road Hartford Primary’s student of the month for February, 2019! Andy is new to our program this year. Andy is a very hard worker who gets along well with all of his peers and staff [...]
The Importance of Empathy in Our Work with Students with Special Needs
A debate currently rages about the nature of autism. Within this debate are two important questions: Is autism a disorder to be treated? Or should society be treated to fit the needs of everyone? Like other writers who try to avoid falling into the pit of political despair, [...]
Meet the Team: Traresse Walker
Traresse Walker, Teacher During the day, I do my best to come up with new and innovated ways to keep my students engaged and interested in the material. My job is to teach, and that starts with gaining the interest of our students. [...]
Meet the Team: Jessica Miccio
Jessica Miccio, Teaching Assistant & 1:1 I chose this specific field because of my experience in dealing with children with trauma and attachment issues. I've been a foster/adoptive parent for over 13 years and have dealt with kids with all types [...]
ESEA Conference
Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for students, will be exhibiting at the 2019 National ESEA Conference (formerly, the National Title I Conference). The event, happening through February 2nd in Missouri, is one of the [...]
Meet the Team: Christine Hartwich
Christine Hartwich, Special Education Teacher I chose special education as I have family who has received special education services in their schooling and have seen the good and the bad. I wanted to be a positive role model for those who [...]
Educator Spotlight – January
Announcing the January 2019 Educator Spotlight Honorees! The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog that highlights the teachers, assistants, specialist, coaches, and professionals across the Catapult Learning community who make a positive impact on our students and schools throughout the country. They are our [...]
Meet the Team: Melissa Dirzius
Melissa Dirzius, Special Education Teacher & Art Teacher I began volunteering with special needs students in my High School Child Development Center. I had considered several other fields as I continued my education — psychology, Social Work, BCBA but found they [...]
Meet the Team: Tyler Winterstein
Tyler Winterstein, Behavior Specialist In the morning, my role is mainly focused on transportation. Throughout the day, I work with every student and assist them on refocusing their behaviors. This can take many forms for each student, but overall I support the [...]
Learning Made Fun with Sierra Academy
NBC 12News in Arizona spoke with Lenora King, director of the Sierra Academy of Scottsdale about our staffs passion for our students, our individualized approach to education, and what's new and exciting at Sierra Academy!. “We put our kids at the forefront of everything we do." –Lenora King, director of [...]
Student Spotlight: Ethan J.
Ethan is one of our 10th grade students here at CSD. He strives for greatness everyday not matter the subject, academic or social you can always count on Ethan to offer a free hand and especially an idea. Ethan loves history, you can ask him any question [...]
Teacher Feature: Ms. Kavney
When it comes to encouraging collaboration, assigning fun activities or planning new and exciting sensory breaks, Ms. Kavney does it all plus so much more. Ms. Kavney is one of our Elementary teachers and continues to set the standards high for our whole staff! Starting in July [...]
A Major Turnaround
Donnell T. is a 14yr old 8th grade student at High Road Lower School in Lanham, MD. Donnell has been a student at High Road for 3 years. Donnell has made a great deal of progress in a number of areas including, attendance, behavior, and grades. In [...]
Meet the Team: Brandon Galvan
Brandon Galvan, 1:1 Teacher's Aide Thank you to Aurora Day School Student Journalist Megan for conducting the following interview with Brandon. Mr. Brandon enjoys working with kids and hearing their stories. He enjoys the calm and enjoyable environment. He is a [...]
Meet the Team: Monica K.
Monica K., Mental Health Specialist After earning my BA in Psychology and working in a psychiatric hospital, I decided I wanted to focus more on at risk youth, especially the younger population. It's really important for our students that I come up with [...]
University of Oregon Ed. Research Lab Partners With Catapult Learning
In EdWeek Market Brief, CEO of Catapult Learning Jeff Cohen as well as Hank Fien, the director of the University of Oregon's Center on Teaching and Learning recently discussed the newly formed Institute for Scaling Evidence-Based Education. Initially, the partnership will focus on ramping up the reach of the [...]
Meet the Team: Jacqueline Carvajal
Jacqueline Carvajal, Assistant Teacher Throughout the day, there can be many challenges, but I like to get through it the best I can, with a positive attitude. As an assistant teacher that are many roles that I play. That can include planning activities [...]
Meet the Team: Designated Instructional Services Team
Meet the Team Erin Schwier, EdD, OTD, OTR/L Matt Beltran, COTA/L Janice Clark, M.S., CCC-SLP Erin Schwier, EdD, OTD, OTR/L 16 years as on Occupational Therapist with 15 years at Sierra Academy Matt Beltran, COTA/L- 10 years as a COTA at [...]
Student Spotlight: Julianne Y.
Student Spotlight Julianne Y. I like all of the staff in my classroom. Ms. Lekaunas is my teacher and she really makes me feel close to home. She calms me down and makes it easy for me to be at school. Mr. McBride [...]
Meet the Team: Jessica Eddy
Meet the Team Jessica Eddy, High School Therapist My passion is in helping people to understand, heal, and turn their pain into strength and life purposes. I believe the power of the human connection can help us grow into our [...]
Meet the Team: Devon Ford
Devon Ford, Support Specialist Every day, I work to set a positive tone for the day by greeting each and everyone one of our students. Not only does this allow me to give share a smile with each student every morning, I also [...]
Staff of the Month December 2018
High Road School of Hartford Primary’s Mrs. Natalie Conley has been selected as staff of the Month for November! Through a process where all staff in the building nominate a peer who exemplifies our CORE 4 values and has been an asset to the team, Mrs. Conley received [...]
Gabriel’s Angels offers a safe space for at-risk students to learn
The Arizona Republic visited Aurora Day School to highlight the great work our students and Gabriel's Angels are doing. Gabriel's Angels is a nonprofit which provides animal-assisted activities which involve dogs and other animals in recreational and educational programs. Over the course of 18 weeks, students spend 15-20 minutes [...]
MLK Jr. Day of Service Event
Martin Luther King Jr. Day honors the achievements of one of the most influential of African American civil rights leaders during the 1960s. Martin Luther King Jr. advocated the use of nonviolence to end racial segregation. The day is celebrated with parades and speeches by civil rights and [...]
Settling Back In and a Field trip
Well here we are nearing the end of our second week back from winter break. The students have been able to come and settle right back into the routine. For the rest of the school year, I would like to try and make learning more fun for my students. [...]
When Your Child’s Behavior Becomes Extreme
When children refuse to clean up their toys or eat their vegetables, most parents know how to best handle the situation. But what if a child’s reaction to appropriate consequences is extreme, escalating to physical aggression and even property damage and making the home unsafe? This type of conduct [...]
Ask The Expert- Speech and Language Therapist
Ask The Expert: Speech and Language Therapist, Kaitlyn Harrold What is speech-language therapy? In the school setting, speech-language pathologists (SLPs) design therapy programs in order to meet the individual needs of students to increase functional and effective communication skills. Activities are created to teach new concepts, improve [...]
STCC gives High Road School of Hartford students glimpse of future careers
SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Springfield Technical Community College provided career training to students from High Road School of Hartford. STCC's Workforce Development Center made it possible for students from the High Road School to get a sample of EMT training on Tuesday. Students also attended a modern advanced manufacturing machine shop [...]
GOODworks Graduation
Searah & Logan Pictured with Goodwill Instructor Teresa White and Vice-President Trudy Spence-Parker. Logan & Searah completed the 12 week GOODworks job training program. Logan had the opportunity to speak at the GOODworks graduation. He did a phenomenal job!
Thank You Ms. Lucas
Ms. D Lucas has been with High Road Upper School for eight years. Of those eight years, six were spent at the Beltsville location and the other two were spent here in our current location. Ms. Lucas held many roles during her career while at High Road including: [...]
Lena’s Success!
Lena, a 5th Grader at Choptank Elementary in Cambridge, Maryland recently set a goal to attend math instruction with her general education. She attended math for 30 days in order to earn a special prize that she personally selected. This incentive pushed Lena not only to go to [...]
Catapult Learning and the University of Oregon’s Center on Teaching and Learning Partner to Create The Institute For Scaling Evidence Based Education
Institute to Focus Initially on Early Literacy Intervention [PR Web] January 8, 2019 (Camden, NJ/Eugene, OR) – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention, professional development programs, special education and behavioral health services, and the Center on Teaching and Learning (CTL), a world-class research center of the University of [...]
Meet Our New B.E.S.T. Elementary Teacher
My name is Kimberly Denton and I will be the new teacher for the BEST Elementary classroom at High Road School of Bloomington! I am looking forward to working with your child as we work together to progress toward their individualized goals. First, I’d like to begin by [...]
B.E.S.T. Academy uses robot to help students with autism
WFSB Eyewitness 3 visited the B.E.S.T. Academy in Wallingford, CT to learn more about Milo, a robot designed to assist students with autism. Milo is being utilized at B.E.S.T. Academy to help students with greetings, staying calm, and how to speak to other people.“The students engaged are making rapid progress, [...]
One Shining Star – Emonte
Emonte is a 3rd grader at EES who has celebrated many successes this year. At the start of the year he became a role model for new students entering our classroom. Emonte maintained 25 consecutive school days on our highest level of the behavioral management system which enabled [...]
High Road School of Norwalk hosts Turkey Feast
High Road School of Norwalk hosted their annual Thanksgiving Feast on November 20th. Staff, students, teachers, and parents enjoyed a great feast provided by the school. “The best part about doing this with special needs kids is it shows the kids that family, friends and the community are all [...]
Educator Spotlight – Remembering Dr. Linda Powers
Dr. Linda Powers, a professional development specialist, passed away on November 18, 2018 in Perry, Oklahoma. Linda was unmatched in her professionalism, her dedication, and her compassion. She will be deeply missed by all who were fortunate to know and love her. To honor our friend and colleague, John [...]
December 2018 Student of the Month
Jomari Floyd, a 6th grade student at High Road Hartford Primary School has been selected by staff to be student of the month for December! One student from each classroom was nominated by staff and then staff members voted on which student exemplified the desired behaviors of a [...]
High School Student of the Month
Megan is November's High School Student of the Month. Megan is hard working, she turns in all of her academic assignments on time. Megan is very patient with her younger freshman peers in the high school 3 classroom. Megan is a senior working towards graduating this year. Megan [...]
High Road Academy Impacts The Lives Of Special Education Students
Tim Martin and Jordan Pugh, directors at High Road Academy in Laurel, Maryland spoke with the Prince George Sentinel about their school, how the first began their careers in special education, and their passion for serving students who haven't found success in the typical classroom. “ For our students who have [...]
Meet Our New Middle School Teacher
Happy Holidays! My name is Kristine Stonikas and I am the new teacher for the Academic Middle School at High Road School of Bloomington. I recently graduated with my Master's degree (2018) in Special Education from Grand Canyon University, and also have my bachelor's in English studies (with [...]
Catapult Learning Announces Acquisition of Special Education Programs in Arizona and Colorado
Catapult Learning Continues Rapid Expansion in Special Education [PR Web] November 28, 2018 (Camden, NJ) – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of special education and instructional intervention solutions, today announced the acquisition of LifeShare USA’s Educational Resources division, a state-approved provider of private special education programming. The transaction expands Catapult’s [...]
Teacher Spotlight
This month, we would like to put the staff spotlight on Ms. Ashley Kimbell! Ms. Kimbell joined the B.E.S.T. Academy in 2016 as a special education teacher. She received her Master's degree from Southern Connecticut State University in 2017. This is Ms. Kimbell's first teaching position and she [...]
Catapult Learning Expands Autism Services Through Acquisition of Capital Education Group
Company Combines Educational Programming with In-Home and Clinic-Based Therapy to Accelerate and Improve Outcomes for Children [PR Web] November 14, 2018 (Camden, NJ) – Catapult Learning, the nation’s largest provider of special education and instructional intervention solutions, today announced it acquired Capital Education Group (CEG), a leading provider of [...]
Q&A: Transitioning to Home School
On November 13th, High Road School of Hartford Primary student, Cristofer Hernandez, transitioned from High Road to a less restrictive environment. Cristofer had reached higher levels, including our highest level of gold, prior to his transition. Just prior to leaving, Cris was able to sit down with a staff [...]
Middle School News
In art we have been getting our festive groove on! We have worked with different textures and materials to complete candy corn, pumpkin silhouettes, and fall decorations for the fall festival. Middle school has been busy working in our rotational models and completing time on-task each week. We [...]
Lockerman Middle School Student of the Week
In the High Road classroom at Lockerman Middle School, a “Student of the Week” is recognized and announced at the end of each school week. The “Student of the Week” is honored with earning a certificate, a “Free Rotation Pass”, and their name remains displayed the following week [...]
3 Tips for Effective STEM Instruction
STEM is an engaging, hands-on learning experience driven by inquiry-based learning. Students develop their skills in collaboration, problem solving, and critical thinking to tackle challenges and objectives. With growing career opportunities in STEM-related fields, and the applicability of those 21st Century skills across academic and career disciplines, there is [...]
Sensory-Friendly Movie Night Hosted for Special Education Students
Catapult Learning's High Road School of Wright City hosted a free Halloween-themed Movie Night featuring a sensory-friendly showing of “Hotel Transylvania" attended by 25 people, including students and family members. “During sensory-friendly movies, the lights are left on a little higher. This keeps the contrast of the bright colors [...]
How to Foster a Growth Mindset in the Classroom
Teaching isn’t simply about getting students ready for tests. As educators, we know our work goes way beyond that to prepare them for a successful life. In every classroom, teachers have the power and platform to become positive influences, even role models and mentors – especially for students who [...]
November 2018 Staff of the Month
High Road School of Hartford Primary’s Mr. Raynor Blanton has been selected as staff of the Month for November! Through a process where all staff in the building nominate a peer who exemplifies our CORE 4 values and has been an asset to the team, Mr. Blanton received the [...]
November 2018 Student of the Month
Steven Garcia, a 5th Grade student at High Road Hartford Primary School has been selected by staff to be the student of the month for November! One student from each classroom was nominated by staff and then staff members voted on which student exemplified the desired behaviors of [...]
Group Counseling Corner
Our group counseling sessions have been revolving around communication for the past couple of weeks. Topics have included formal communication, phone communication, communicating our feelings, and even communicating during stressful situations like a job interview! The students have done very well. They enjoy role playing these situations and are [...]
Staff Highlight Jill Fitzpatrick – Oct. 2018
Caroline County October 2018 Staff Spotlight Jill Fitzpatrick ~ Lead Teacher When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up? I knew when I was in 2nd grade that I wanted to be a teacher. My father was in education and [...]
October Student of the Month – High School
Shelly was chosen as October's Student of the Month because of her unwavering commitment to her success in school. Shelly's attendance has improved significantly, and she routinely completes her in-class assignments without prompting, even going above and beyond by completing extra problem sets or helping her peers. Shelly, [...]
Robinson Nature Center
Recently, the students in 5th, 6th and 7th grades had the opportunity to visit the Robinson Nature Center in Columbia, MD. This nature education facility is situated on 18 acres of land adjacent to the Middle Patuxent Environmental Area. Students listened to nature professionals speak about the area [...]
Strategies for Developing Core Values at Your School
Every school has its own culture that expresses shared values and expectations for students, faculty and staff. As the principal, you to set a positive example for others as they contribute to a productive learning and teaching environment. Core values help communicate your school’s story – its mission, standards [...]
The Prince George’s Post Featured High Road Academy Co-Directors
In recognition of October being Learning Disabilities Awareness Month, co-directors of High Road Academy, Laurel contributed to the Prince George's Post article "A Little Awareness - and Support - Goes a Long Way." Tim Martin and Jordan Pugh share, "As co-directors of the High Road Academy in Laurel, a school that serves [...]
Educator Spotlight – September
The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their Catapult colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are our very own shining stars! For 2018-19, we are letting [...]
“Parents, help is here” – Warren County Record
Aaron O'Neal, the Program Director High Road School of Wright City, shares advice for parents of K-12 students who are struggling with behavior management. In the article "Parents, help is here" posted by the Warren County Record O'Neal provides steps to address emotional and behavioral issues which could be caused by [...]
2018–19 School Calendar
Download the 2018–19 School Calendar today
Students of the Month – October 2018
We are proud to feature of students of the month for October 2018! This month, Middle Schooler, Kiana Charles has risen to the rank of Student of the Month. Kiana has made strides in receiving awards for academics and attendance. Her positive attitude is contagious to [...]
Introducing our New Associate Director
At our Findlay location, Ms. Karrah Windau has been named our new Associate Director! She has spent the last five years working in the Occupational Therapy Department as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant. She has five years of experience working with the students at the school, as well [...]
Sierra Staff All Star Team – September
Congratulations to our September Staff All Star Team! These staff have gone above and beyond for Sierra School and our students. Thank you for all your hard work and dedication! Mr. Lopez Mr. Ford Mr. Hodges Mr. Taylor A special congratulations to Ms. Williams who is our September [...]
New School Social Worker
We are pleased to announce the addition of Mrs. Meagan Steyer who will be servicing all three of our locations as our new school social worker. Mrs. Steyer obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at The University of Findlay in 2012. She then went on to [...]
Staff of the Month: September 2018
High Road School of Hartford Primary's, Mr. Deven Scott has been selected as the September Staff of the Month! Through a process where all staff in the building nominate a peer who exemplifies our CORE 4 values and has been an asset to the team, Mr. Scott received [...]
Staff of the Month: September 2018
Uriah Lynn, a 3rd grade student here at High Road School of Hartford Primary was selected as the Student of the Month for September! One student from each of our 4 classrooms was nominated and then all staff voted on which student exemplified the desired behaviors of a [...]
Create a Culturally Responsive Classroom (Monthly Steps)
In May 2018 I wrote about Culturally Responsive Teaching. To be a culturally responsive teachers we ourselves must be culturally competent. According to The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, “cultural competence means to be respectful and responsive to the health beliefs and practices—and cultural and linguistic needs—of diverse population groups. Developing cultural competence is also an [...]
Catapult Learning’s Summer School Program Gets High Remarks
Through a three year partnership with the Maryville R-II School District (Maryville, MO), we are excited about the high student retention (91 percent) and daily attendance increases (80 to 91 percent) as we completed our second year of the program. Read what Superintendent Becky Albrecht shared about our student [...]
Student of the Week- Sep. 28
In the High Road School classroom at Lockerman Middle School, a “Student of the Week” is recognized and announced at the end of each school week. The “Student of the Week” is honored with earning a certificate, a “Free Rotation Pass”, and their name remains displayed the following [...]
Welcome to the Therapy Department
"Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we’re supposed to be and embracing who we are." In the Therapy Department at Sierra School at Eastern Extension, we believe that every child deserves to live their happiest and healthiest life. [...]
Catapult Learning Announces Acquisition of Special Education School in Southern California
Company Continues Growth of Special Education Offerings Around the Country (PRWEB) September 12, 2018, Camden, NJ – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of special education and instructional intervention solutions, today announced the acquisition of the Leeway School for Educational Therapy in Alhambra, California. The Leeway School will join Catapult Learning’s [...]
Catapult Learning Launched a Back to School Sweepstakes to Recognize and Appreciate Teachers
In September, Catapult Learning held the inaugural Back to School Sweepstakes. We asked teachers and supervisors from across the organization to tell us why they were excited to start the 2018 – 19 school year. The responses were overwhelming. Some teachers shared the thoughtful and creative prep work they [...]
Scientific Method & Fiesta Friday
As part of his Scientific Method lesson, Mr. Hedash held a "Fiesta Friday" which required students to apply their knowledge of writing lab reports and processes of creating an experiment. Students used scale measuring instruments and conversion factors to determine exactly how many pounds of meat was required [...]
Tower Challenge
Team building is an important aspect of our school and classrooms. The Tower Challenge shows both teachers and students the importance of building a strong, healthy team. The Tower Challenge involves several teams (of 3-4 students) competing to assemble the tallest freestanding structure in a given time period with [...]
August 2018 Students of the Month
Jada Jada has demonstrated exemplary behavior both in and out of the classroom. She has served as a volunteer for several projects; attendance clerk, mentoring a non-verbal peer, St. Mary's Food Bank, horse therapy and multiple other activities. She is an excellent participant in classroom rotations and shows [...]
Catapult Learning Pilots STEM Program for Public and Private K-12 Schools in Houston Area
(PRWEB) August 22, 2018 Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions, today announced the successful completion of a pilot program of its new STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) offering in public and private schools throughout the Houston area. Catapult Learning works with [...]
McDonald County Summer Journey Featured on Local Missouri News
McDonald County School District’s Summer Journey program, which runs from May 30 through June 29, was featured on a recent newscast on KFJX Fox 14 News. The network highlighted the Catapult Learning program’s success in McDonald County, which has 56% of its students in attendance for the 2018 Summer Journey program. The [...]
Educator Spotlight – June 2018
We are pleased to feature our first-ever Team of the Month edition of Educator Spotlight! Over the years, we have received several requests to nominate a team of teachers for the Educator Spotlight honor. Team is defined as a group of educators who work together daily to support learning, student [...]
Don’t Ask Your Kids This Question! Here Are Plenty of Better Options
Your child gets off the bus, shuffles to the door, comes in the house, drops the backpack, and heads your way. So, how do you greet your student? “How was your day?” Sigh. Don’t worry—we’ve all done it. In fact, it’s basically the default question that, for one reason [...]
Catapult Schools’ Career Fair Featured in Local San Diego Newspaper
Springall Academy and Sierra Academy of San Diego, members of the Catapult Learning Schools Group, hosted a Career Fair for the schools' students on April 18th. The event was featured in an article in the May/June 2018 issue of the Mission Times Courier. Several businesses—including the YMCA, Starbucks, and Kona [...]
Better Hearing & Speech Month – Part 2: Safe Hearing & Listening
By Janelle Paul, M.S., CCC-SLP, Supervisor of Specialized Services, Catapult Learning Earlier in the month, I wrote about caring for your teacher voice in Part I of my blog highlighting National Better Hearing & Speech Month. But it wouldn’t be Better Hearing and Speech Month without some tips about hearing [...]
In-Service Days Complement Professional Development Activities
A rich knowledge base exists on the benefits of thoughtful, multi-year professional development activities for schools, districts, and dioceses, inspired in large part by federally funded research on school improvement, organizational change, and adult learning styles. Effective educational leaders are familiar with insights gleaned from this knowledge base, and typically [...]
Local Connecticut BOE member with Autism Speaks to Students at High Road Academy
Enfield, Connecticut Board of Education member Sarah Hernandez, who has Autism, visited High Road Academy in Wallingford last week. Hernandez spoke with students, answered their questions, and toured the school with Education Director Sue Gilleaudeau. Three local media outlets highlighted the visit in print and online features. Read the articles [...]
Local Connecticut BOE member with Autism Speaks to Students at High Road Academy
[vc_column_text pb_margin_bottom="no" pb_border_bottom="no" width="1/1" el_position="first last"] Enfield, Connecticut Board of Education member Sarah Hernandez, who has Autism, visited High Road Academy in Wallingford last week. Hernandez spoke with students, answered their questions, and toured the school with Education Director Sue Gilleaudeau. Three local media outlets highlighted the visit in print [...]
Catapult Learning School Director Op-Ed on Autism and Inclusion Featured in Local Colorado Paper
An op-ed written by Sarah Strothkamp, Executive Director of Sierra School of Weld County, was featured in The Greeley Tribune, a print and online newspaper that serves Greeley and Weld Counties in Colorado. In the op-ed, It’s Time to Reflect on Inclusion, Strothkamp discusses the importance—and value—of inclusion both for [...]
Catapult Learning to Exhibit at the 2018 National Catholic Educational Association Convention and Expo in Booth #423
Leading Instructional Intervention Provider to Showcase Recently Launched STEM Program Based on the Engineering Design Process; Company Educational Experts to Host Sessions April 3, 2018, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for [...]
Catapult Learning Launches New Turnkey STEM Program Inspired by the Engineering Design Process
March 13, 2018, Camden, NJ – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions, today announced the launch of its new supplemental STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) program. Catapult Learning works with hundreds of district partners across the country and has seen first-hand how schools [...]
Students’ Visit to Norwalk Fire Department Featured in Local News
Students from High Road School of Norwalk had the opportunity to tour the Norwalk Fire Department during the month of February. Visits, organized by grade level, allowed the students to walk through the firehouse and spend time talking with the firefighters. The Norwalk Daily Voice reported on the event, featuring [...]
Catapult Learning Supports Steps for Students 5K Run for Catholic Education
Race Sponsorship Benefits Catholic Schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston February 17, 2018, Camden, NJ - Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for students, today announced its sponsorship of the 13th annual Steps 4 Students 5K [...]
Catapult Learning Exhibits at the 2018 National Title I Conference
Leading Instructional Intervention Provider to Showcase Programs Among More Than 3,000 Educators February 8, 2018, Camden, NJ - Catapult Learning, a leading provider of instructional intervention and professional development solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for students, today announced its participation in the 2018 National Title I Conference [...]
How Strong Instructional Leaders Can Bring Out the Best in Educators
Great leaders and managers recognize the importance of maximizing their resources, including recruiting and retaining the right people for their organizations. In the book, First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently, authors Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman state, “Select a person, set expectations, motivate the [...]
Investing in Self-Reflection: A Resolution for the New Year
“Happy New Year!” This time of year, and specifically those words, often lead one through a customary self-reflection of the previous year—personally and professionally—with recollections of the good, the bad, and the indifferent in hopes of setting new goals. January 1st brings optimism for a new beginning, the perspective of [...]
Happy New Year! Resolving to be the Very Best We Can Be as We Ring in 2018
Ring in 2018! Hard to believe, but we are beginning yet another new year. And while there may be some question about the real astronomical significance of New Year’s Day, the New Year certainly can signal an opportunity for us to resolve to explore and grow as professionals in areas [...]
Educator Spotlight – December 2017
Announcing the December 2017 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are our [...]
Teacher Spotlight – Samantha Popel
“Samantha has started the Reading Buddies Program for our school with our high school students and elementary students. Within this program her high school students are paired up with a student from our elementary classroom. The high school students will read to their assigned elementary student and they [...]
High Road School of Wallingford’s PJ Day Featured in Local News
Several students at High Road School of Wallingford got to wear their pajamas to school on Friday, December 15. The annual event, known as PJ Day, is a fundraiser for the Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders at the Connecticut Children's Medical Center. Students who give donations get to participate [...]
Local CT News Highlights High Road School of Norwalk Thanksgiving Celebration
On Tuesday, November 21, High Road school of Norwalk celebrated Thanksgiving with a holiday feast. Staff and students were joined by the family members as well as Norwalk City police and fire personnel and first responders. The Hour featured the event in a recent online feature
High Road Academy Thanksgiving Feast Featured in Local Connecticut News
The students and staff at High Road Academy in Wallingford, Connecticut, celebrated their annual Thanksgiving Feast on Tuesday, November 21, 2017. Fox61 News featured the school celebration in a video and article featured on the station’s website. Click here to watch the entire video and read the article.
New High Road School Campus Featured in Local Maryland News
The grand opening of High Road School's new location in Prince George’s County, Maryland, was recently featured in several local news outlets. Prince George's Community TV/CTV76 visited the school and interviewed Michelle Anderson, the school’s Education Director, for the story. Click here to watch the broadcast clip. The Beltsville News features the [...]
Catapult Learning Marks Grand Opening of New Location for Two Schools in Prince George’s County
Special and Alternative Education Provider Opens Campus to Better Serve Students Catapult Learning, a leading provider of special and alternative education solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for students, today held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the grand opening of the High Road School and High Road [...]
Catapult Learning Awarded Contract for Title IV Program to Serve Private Nonpublic Schools in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston
Title IV Program Joins the Company’s Title I and II Program Partnerships with HISD October 23, 2017, Camden, NJ –Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced that the company has been awarded a contract by the Houston Independent School District to provide Title IV, Part A services to private, nonpublic schools within [...]
Sierra Academy Featured on ABC15
Following our grand reopening in early October 2017, we were happy to be featured in a news segment on ABC15. The news featured highlights our school’s focus on helping students with autism and other learning disabilities gain social and life skills, in addition to academics, to prepare them for the [...]
Catapult Learning Receives Accreditation from AdvancED for Commitment to Continuous Improvement
Special and Alternative Education Provider Excels in Voluntary External Review Camden, NJ – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of special and alternative education, intervention programs, and professional development solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for students, today announced it was granted Education Service Agency Accreditation by AdvancED, [...]
Sierra Academy of Scottsdale Featured on ABC15 News
Sierra Academy of Scottsdale, which celebrated its grand reopening in early October, was featured in a recent news segment on ABC15 in Arizona. The news featured highlights the school’s focus on helping students with autism and other learning disabilities gain social and life skills, in addition to academics, to prepare [...]
Educator Spotlight – September 2017
Announcing the September 2017 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are [...]
District Sees Improved Test Scores & Budget Surplus with Summer Journey
In its inaugural year with Summer Journey, Union R-XI School District has seen positive results, from enrollment to test scores to budget surplus, according to several recent articles posted on emissourian.com. The school district saw over a 100% increase in it enrollment over its 2016 summer program. More than 1,100 [...]
Catapult Learning Expands Presence in Arizona with Acquisition of Desert Heights Academy
Special Education Provider Now Serves Over 330 Students at Three Schools in the State September 12, 2017, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, a leading provider of special and alternative education, intervention programs, and professional development solutions that generate academic gains and better life outcomes for students, today announced the [...]
Catapult Learning Strengthens Finance Team With Addition of Joseph Driscoll
Finance Expert Brings More Than 20 Years of Fiscal Management and Oversight Experience to Company August 22, 2017, Camden, NJ –Catapult Learning, a leading provider of outstanding education solutions that generate demonstrable academic achievement and better life outcomes for students, today announced the appointment of Joseph Driscoll to vice president, [...]
Catapult Learning Strengthens Sales Leadership with Addition of Chris Shenk
New executive brings over two decades of business development experience to Catapult Learning. July 10, 2017, Camden, NJ – Catapult Learning announced today that Chris Shenk has joined the company as Vice President of Sales for the company’s Education Solutions group. In this role, Shenk will lead the national sales [...]
Successful Summer Journey Program Featured in Local Missouri Newspaper
Maryville R-II School District’s Summer Journey program was featured in a recent article in the Maryville Daily Forum, a local newspaper in Maryville, Missouri. The school district, which has run its own summer program in past years, adopted Catapult Learning’s Summer Journey for its 2017 summer school program. The result [...]
Catapult Learning Awarded Title Services Contract for Seton Catholic Schools Network
The three-year contract will provide Title I, II, and III services to 13 Milwaukee-area Catholic elementary schools. June 22, 2017, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced that the company has been awarded a three-year contract to provide Title services to the Seton Catholic Schools Network in Milwaukee, [...]
Summer Journey Attendance Doubles for Missouri’s Union R-XI School District
Union R-XI School District is one of 35 Missouri school districts participating in Summer Journey, Catapult Learning’s summer program that enrolls nearly 25,000 Missouri students each year. The Union School District, which has offered a summer program in the past but adopted Summer Journey for 2017, was recently featured in [...]
Catapult Academy Student Overcomes Obstacles To Graduate
It's an exciting time for the thousands of high school students across the Chattahoochee Valley preparing for graduation. It can be a difficult journey especially for students who may have to deal with obstacles that take them off track. In Muscogee County, Catapult Academy is a place where these [...]
Catapult Academy Student Proudly Finishes High School
Thousands of young adults in Columbus, Georgia will graduate from high school, some of them taking a different path to walk across the stage. WTVM9 ABC recently spoke with Jonathan Lee, a student at Catapult Academy who will be graduating this year. It's been a longer journey than expected [...]
Summer Journey’s STEM Curriculum Featured in Local Missouri Newspaper
Catapult Learning's Summer Journey program was recently featured in an article on The Lincoln County Journal's website. The article, "Winfield Summer School to focus on STEM Learning," highlights the school district's focus on STEM learning, beginning with Summer Journey's STEM-focused courses with plans to expand STEM learning to the district's [...]
Reverend Ronald Nuzzi, Ph.D., Named Executive Director of Equitable Access and Excellence at Catapult Learning
In his dual-capacity role, Reverend Nuzzi will focus on securing equitable services for students and developing programs that impact academic excellence nationally. April 11, 2017, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. announced the hiring of the Reverend Ronald Nuzzi, Ph.D., as Executive Director of Equitable Access and Excellence. Nuzzi [...]
Catapult Learning Principal Seminar Featured Acclaimed Speaker Richard Lavoie
Catapult Learning Principal Seminar Featured Acclaimed Speaker Richard Lavoie April 5, 2017, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning recently welcomed Richard Lavoie, M.A., M.Ed., to speak to a group of more than 200 Lakewood, New Jersey principals and administrators. The event was held on Thursday, March 30, at Lake Terrace Hall in [...]
High Road Students Overcome Anxiety, Enjoy Holiday Party
BLOOMINGTON — During a season of rambunctious holiday parties and lively school concerts, children with emotional and intellectual disabilities can miss out on the fun. Parents of students at High Road School — a private educational facility for children with physical, cognitive, emotional and behavioral issues — asked if administrators [...]
ASHA Career Fair
Catapult Learning will be exhibiting at the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Career Fair from November 17-19 at the Philadelphia Convention Center in Philadelphia, PA. At ASHA's career fair, this is the place where job seekers are able to connect with Catapult Learning and other employers. Each employer gets to meet one-on-one with job seekers [...]
Catapult Learning Strengthens Executive Team with Addition of Steve Quattrociocchi
Newly Named Education Solutions Group President Brings Three Decades of Education and Technology Leadership to Catapult Learning November 07, 2016 12:32 PM Eastern Standard Time CAMDEN, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Catapult Learning, Inc., today announced the hiring of Steve Quattrociocchi as President of the Education Solutions Group. In his new role, Quattrociocchi will [...]
R-XIV Uses New Tool to Gauge Learning
The Lonedell R-XIV School District has implemented a new assessment tool that will help students, teachers, administrators and parents gauge student understanding of specific content taught. Superintendent Jenny Ulrich said the district has recently purchased an online testing tool called Evaluate by Catapult Learning. “Our district uses formative, summative and [...]
Trenton R-9 Board of Education Approves Baseball Field Agreement, Reviews Summer School
Trenton R-9 Board of Education has approved a baseball field user agreement for two years; and a summer school contract for three years. For use of the Burleigh Grimes baseball field, Trenton R-9 will pay $200 per day, on game days only, to the Trenton Park Department which includes a [...]
The Special Education Teacher Identity Crisis: Prescriptive or Pragmatic? Part II
In The Special Education Teacher Identity Crisis: Prescriptive or Pragmatic? Part I, I discussed the special education teacher “identity crisis” as it relates to taking a more diagnostic/prescriptive role to planning instruction versus a more pragmatic role. I also described my observations of two special education teachers at [...]
Catapult Learning Awarded Department of Defense Contract for Systemwide K−12 Literacy Professional Learning
Contract will support teachers in 168 schools on 60+ U.S. military bases throughout the Americas, Europe, and the Pacific. August 2, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced that the company has been awarded a contract for a base year and 4 option years by the Department [...]
Catapult Learning Announces Acquisition of Ohio-Based Autism Schools
The acquisition represents the second in 2016 for the company’s Schools Division. July 6, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. has acquired the Center for Autism and Dyslexia (CFAD), a specialized school program with locations in Findlay and Lima, Ohio, serving approximately 140 students diagnosed with autism, dyslexia, [...]
Top 10 EduBlogs of 2015−16
As we look back at the blogs posted by our EduExperts over the last eleven months, we notice several topics popular with our blogs readers throughout the 2015−16 school year. These topics range from the Every Student Succeeds Acts (ESSA) to differentiated instruction to special education and more. Following is a list of [...]
Catapult Academy of Hillsborough County Honors 36 Graduates in Class of 2016
The two-year-old district-approved program now serves nearly 450 students on three Tampa campuses. June 30, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning announced the graduation of 36 students from the Hillsborough County School District–approved Catapult Academy program in Tampa, Florida. The graduation ceremony was held on Friday, June 10, at [...]
Catapult Academy of Duval County Honors 109 Graduates in Class of 2016
The 2016 cohort is the largest graduating class for the three-year-old dropout recovery program. June 30, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning announced the graduation of 109 students from the Duval County Public Schools-approved Catapult Academy program in Jacksonville, Florida. The graduation ceremony was held on Monday, June 13, [...]
Creating Authentic Learning Experiences in Your Local Community
Preparing students for the real world is central to current education pedagogy. To do this, educators create problem- and project-based learning assignments, encourage students to work collaboratively, develop engaging lessons, and produce a myriad of learning opportunities and assessments. Whether we are talking about project-based learning, inquiry learning, [...]
Support Students’ Summer Learning with Interactive, Web-Based Resources
Ahh . . . summer is here and for most students that means vacation, free time, swimming, and no more school work. For parents and teachers, though, there are concerns that students, while enjoying their summer freedom, will lose some of the academic gains made during the school [...]
Catapult Learning Selected to Provide Tutorial Instructional Services to Volusia County
The company will serve eligible K−12 students in Volusia County non-public schools. June 21, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced that the company has been selected as a service provider by the School Board of Volusia County to provide tutorial services to eligible K−12 students in [...]
Word Up! Books That Will Accelerate Your Personal Summer Learning
Hard to believe, but yet another school year has come and gone and now it’s time to chart a course for maximizing your summer break. What a tremendous chance to decompress, devour a few good books, and engage in a little personal learning. If you’re like me, you [...]
Catapult Academy of Marion County Honors 26 Graduates in Class of 2016
The district-approved dropout recovery program has graduated over 110 students since 2014. June 1, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning announced the graduation of 26 students from the Marion County School District-approved Catapult Academy program in Ocala, Florida. The graduation ceremony for the Class of 2016 was held on [...]
Catapult Academy of Dougherty County Honors 39 Graduates in Its Class of 2016
The school district-approved dropout recovery program has graduated more than 100 students over the past three years. June 1, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning announced the graduation of 39 students from the Dougherty County School District-approved Catapult Academy program in Albany, Georgia. The graduation ceremony for the Class [...]
Educator Spotlight – May 2016
Announcing the May 2016 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are our [...]
Catapult Academy of Muscogee County Honors 67 Graduates in Its Class of 2016
The district-approved program has graduated 127 students since its implementation in fall 2014. May 25, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning announced the [...]
NAEP Results: Less “Bang for Our Buck” (But Plenty of Whimpers)
“Between the idea and the reality . . . falls the shadow.” —T.S. Eliot A new report from our friends at the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), also known as the “Nation’s Report Card,” provides data on student performance in reading and mathematics across multiple [...]
Using Visual Supports for Students with Developmental Disabilities
It is true, no two learners are alike. Some learn better through reading; others through listening or doing. For students with developmental disabilities, who have difficulty communicating with others and especially difficulty understanding what people in their environment are communicating to them, it is important to present information [...]
Engaging Special Needs Students with Experience-Based Learning
Students with special needs have unique strengths, motivators, preferences, and interests in a learning environment. By identifying and addressing these elements, educators can encourage a higher level of engagement. In experience-based learning, facilitators take a step-back approach—allowing for natural discovery of consequences and problem-solving-based learning The result of [...]
Educator Spotlight – April 2016
Announcing the April 2016 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are our [...]
Facing Hard Facts and Tough Decisions
As I looked at the calendar and considered what I wanted to write about in this blog, I started to reflect on my last few months of work-related travel and my conversations with school leaders throughout the country. I also thought about the countless conversations about education that [...]
Catapult Learning’s Education Leadership Survey Results Featured in eSchool News
Catapult Learning’s Annual Education Leadership Survey was recently featured in an article in eSchool News, a monthly print and digital newspaper that covers all aspects of education technology. The overall results of the survey, which included questions that ranged across the education spectrum, reflected school leaders’ focus on meeting individual student [...]
The Special Education Teacher Identity Crisis: Prescriptive or Pragmatic? Part I
Over the course of my many classroom visits and teacher observations throughout my career, I am truly in awe of the master teacher. These teachers live and breathe all aspects of the teaching and learning process, from expert planning to delivery of engaging, differentiated lessons. They exude confidence [...]
Catapult Learning Named SIIA Education CODiE Award Finalist for Best Student Assessment Solution
Evaluate™, Catapult Learning’s next-generation assessment solution, earns prestigious education industry recognition. Camden, New Jersey, April 8, 2016 – Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced that the company’s Evaluate™ formative assessment system was named a finalist for the 2016 SIIA CODiE Awards in the category of Best Student Assessment Solution. The SIIA [...]
Five Ways to Motivate the Reluctant Learner
Educators can readily identify the student who seems to lack motivation. While he or she is generally not a behavior problem in the classroom, the unmotivated student can cause a teacher many sleepless nights. There are a variety of labels used to describe a student who just doesn’t [...]
Catapult Learning Announces Acquisition of Arizona-Based Special Education School
The new program reflects the company’s focus on and commitment to expanding its special education programs. April 4, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced the acquisition of Aurora Day School, a specialized school program in Peoria, AZ, that serves students with a variety of special needs. [...]
Educator Spotlight – March 2016
Announcing the March 2016 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are our [...]
Catapult Learning Releases Results of Education Leadership Survey
Survey respondents cited meeting individual student needs and building educator capacity as their primary focus. March 30, 2016, Camden, NJ – Catapult Learning, Inc. today released the results of its Annual Education Leadership Survey. The overall results of the inaugural survey reflect educational leaders’ focus on meeting individual student needs [...]
Catapult Learning Celebrates 40 Years of Dedication to Student Achievement Gains
The company has grown to serve 300,000 students and 25,000 teachers each year. March 29, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc., the largest provider of K−12 contracted instructional services in the U.S., is celebrating 40 years of improving academic outcomes and life opportunities for students in public, private, [...]
140 Characters or Less: Using Twitter to Enhance Your Personalized Learning Network
Believe it or not, Twitter joined the digital world approximately ten years ago. A decade is ancient when it comes to technology, and for many teachers, Twitter has not been a friend. How many times have you had to tell your students to get off Twitter over the [...]
Catapult Learning’s Evaluate™ Named Finalist for 2016 EdTech Digest Awards
The next-generation assessment tool is one of ten finalists in the assessment solution category. March 20, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. announced today that the company’s Evaluate™ benchmark assessment system has been selected as a finalist for the 2016 EdTech Digest Awards. The next-generation assessment system, which [...]
The View from SXSW: Finding Innovation, Optimism, and Passion in Education
“I had been my whole life a bell, and never knew it until at that moment I was lifted and struck.” —Annie Dillard The South by Southwest (SXSW) Education conference just wrapped up, and I thought I’d take a moment to share some notes and thoughts for [...]
Three Ways to Celebrate Women’s History Month in Your Classroom
Women’s History Month began last week. In 1980, President Carter signed documents proclaiming March 2−8 to be Women’s History Week; by 1987, Congress passed a proclamation establishing March as Women’s History Month. This year’s theme is “Working to Form a More Perfect Union: Honoring Women in Public Service [...]
Catapult Learning’s Literacy First™ Featured on State Chamber of Oklahoma’s Member Spotlight
Catapult Learning’s Literacy First™, a professional development and job-embedded coaching program, is featured on the Member Spotlight page of the State Chamber of Oklahoma’s website. Literacy First is a research-based framework of best practices and strategies designed to build teacher capacity to create a literacy-rich environment that motivates and engages [...]
Catapult’s Dr. Eurmon Hervey Co-Hosts Clemson TV’s “Solutions to the Dropout Crisis”
Eurmon Hervey, Vice President of District and Community Partnerships for Catapult Academy, recently co-hosted an episode of Solutions to the Dropout Crisis, a professional development broadcast produced by Clemson University Broadcast Productions for the National Dropout Prevention Center/Network (NDPC/N). Dr. Hervey, a former chair and long-standing board member of the [...]
Is That Your Mindset Showing? Getting in the Right Frame of Mind to Tackle Achievement Gaps
Downey, et al. (2009) described the persistent and chronic nature of achievement gaps in our educational system as “the most complex and compelling educational dilemma facing schools in the 21st century.” Since the passage of NCLB in 2001—a law at its very essence designed to erase decades of [...]
Educator Spotlight – February 2016
Announcing the February 2016 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are our [...]
Academic Intervention: What Does It Really Mean?
Outside the classroom, the word “intervention” has pretty clear associations. Think of the literal meaning of the word—a coming between—and how it manifests itself in our culture. We all know of instances where people have had to place themselves in someone else’s pathway and make them travel in [...]
Catapult Learning Announces Expansion of Corporate Headquarters
The company’s significant growth since 2010 has increased the need for the additional office space. February 12, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning today announced the expansion of its corporate headquarters in Camden’s Ferry Terminal Building. The company, which moved from Philadelphia to its present location on the Camden [...]
High Road School of Boone County Featured in Missouri Newspaper
High Road School of Boone County, a Catapult Learning school in Columbia, Missouri, was featured in a recent article in the Columbia Daily Tribune. The specialized school, opened in August 2015, serves students ages 5−21 on the autism spectrum and those who have emotional and behavioral disorders. Click here to [...]
Teacher Education, Part II: What Makes an Effective Teacher Education Program
“Evidence shows that effective teachers are the most important in-school contributors to student learning.” —from “Best Practices for Evaluating Teacher Ed. Programs” How do we prepare effective teachers? What are the components of an effective teacher preparation program? To begin researching the answer, I wrote the blog “Teacher [...]
Educator Spotlight – January 2016
Announcing the January 2016 Educator Spotlight honorees! Congratulations to our educators. The Educator Spotlight is a monthly feature on our Catapult Corner Blog. The educators that are highlighted are nominated by their colleagues in recognition of the positive impact they have on children and schools throughout the country. They are [...]
Practicing What We Preach: Is it Possible for Instruction to Reflect Research in Practice?
As we celebrate the start of a new year, we simultaneously approach the midway point of the school year. This is a great opportunity to reflect on what has been accomplished academically for our students and take stock of what might require a “reset” based on current trends. [...]
Bridging the Knowing-Doing Gap: How School Leaders Can Transfer Knowledge into Action to Impact Student and Teacher Learning
“Action expresses priorities.” —Gandhi “Action is the foundational key to all success.” —Pablo Picasso A new year has begun, and along with it come the resolutions–to eat better, exercise more, read more, stay in touch with friends, travel; the list goes on. The beginning of a new year [...]
Andrea Vargas Named President, Schools Division of Catapult Learning, Inc.
The former CFO will manage the expansion of the company’s alternative education, dropout recovery, and special education schools and programs. January 12, 2016, Camden, New Jersey – Catapult Learning, Inc. today announced the promotion of Andrea Vargas to President of the company’s Schools Division, effective immediately. Ms. Vargas most recently [...]
Catapult Learning General Counsel Liza Wolf Named One of Philadelphia’s Top Corporate Counsel
Liza Wolf, Catapult Learning’s General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, was named one of Philadelphia Business Journal’s 2015 Top Corporate Counsel. Liza, who joined Catapult Learning in August 2013, was one of 16 attorneys honored at a reception held on Thursday, December 10, at the Union League in Philadelphia. Honorees [...]
National Dropout Prevention Network and Catapult Learning, Inc. Form Alliance
Clemson, SC, October 6, 2015 – The National Dropout Prevention Network (NDPN) and Catapult Learning, Inc., the nation’s largest provider of K−12 contracted instructional services, have formed an alliance to address dropout prevention and recovery strategies. The announcement was made today by Dr. Sandy Addis, Director of the National Dropout Prevention [...]
Catapult Learning Featured in Ed Week
Providers of Special Education, Dropout Prevention Services Merge - Education Week Article by Christina Samuels, July 28,2015 Catapult Learning, a provider of Title I and dropout prevention services, and Specialized Educational Services Inc., which operates alternative schools, have merged to form a company that will serve 300,000 students through a [...]