The Calais School Extended School Year (ESY) program enriches the lives of all students who participate in the fun-filled extensive program.

The half-day program addresses the unique challenges experienced by children with special needs in a safe and nurturing environment.  The program prevents academic and social regression over the summer and meets their academic, therapeutic and social needs.

Students enjoy weekly trips to a local pool to swim, special club activities as well as fun programs on Fridays.

Calais Assistant Principal Theresa Fritzky, who oversees the program, said ESY has clubs running daily including sewing/crafts, board games, talent shows, Legos, charity/community service and dance/Zumba. Every Monday, students go swimming and on Friday, Calais hosts special on-site events including a wacky game show, a magic show, a former pro-basketball player, a fitness seminar and a hot air balloon. Other special plans include a water day and a visit from the Seeing Eye, said Calais Special Education Teacher Maryann Braen.

In addition, the 12+ students and juniors and seniors participate in other special activities, Fritzky said. “Our 12+ students are completing work-based learning where they are assisting with upgrading our technology in our building,” she said. They are also preparing old technology for recycling, maintaining the school garden and creating bulletin boards throughout the school.

“Some of our 11th and 12th grade students are working in the kitchen to prepare and distribute breakfast and snacks for the students and staff each day,” Fritzky said.

Learn more about The Calais School ESY program.

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