As we welcome the month of July, the Calais School also welcomes the start of the 2014 Extended School Year (ESY) program. This year’s six-week session, which began on July 1st and will conclude on August 12th, focuses on Relationships and Community. The goal of the ESY program is to foster a life-long commitment to education for all within the learning community.

We kicked off the beginning of ESY with an art project with frequent instructor and Calais collaborator, artist Kevin Brooks. The ESY program incorporates the academic and behavioral skills taught throughout the year in order to enhance learning in a friendly, supportive, social atmosphere. Students have a combination of planned activities connected through themed-oriented project based learning.

By providing every student an opportunity to excel within a program specifically designed for their educational success, the entire school community reaps the benefits. Like our traditional school year program, the extended school year follows each student’s IEP, providing academic, social, and therapeutic activities.

In utilizing all tools at our disposal, we hope that all children who take part in this pedagogical journey will develop a true appreciation for the wonders of education. For our teachers and staff, the journey should offer a sense of validation in the selection of a profession that further develops a balance between commitment to family and community. And for everyone, ESY will be a fun, productive, and positive way to spent the hot summer months!