EMP Meetings—Building Bridges for Our Students’ Success

Every school has its own alphabet soup of acronyms, right? Here at our school, it’s “EMP”—Educational Management Plan—a meeting that’s more than just paperwork. Twice a year, parents, guardians, and teachers gather around a table (no students allowed!) to have heartfelt conversations about each child’s growth, challenges, and dreams. Think of it as a “State of the Student” address, where the whole team is focused on one goal: helping every student shine.

It’s not just checklists and goals; it’s personal. I’ll never forget last year when a teacher shared a story about Sam*, a quiet 7th grader who rarely spoke in class. “I’d almost given up trying to hear his voice,” she admitted. “But then, during our class debate, Sam raised his hand—and didn’t just contribute, he led.” As she spoke, Sam’s mom teared up, and so did a few of us around the table. These are the moments that don’t show up on a formal plan but are the heartbeat of what EMPs are all about.

During the meeting, each teacher shares not just strengths and goals but stories—snapshots of a child’s daily victories. Parents have a chance to speak up, too, sharing insights about what’s working and what’s still tough at home. And when everything’s laid out, there’s this beautiful moment when everyone in the room takes a breath and sees the same path forward.

Our goal is to ensure that by the end of the meeting, every parent leaves feeling heard, every child’s voice has a plan, and every teacher knows exactly how to help each student reach their next milestone. So, as we prepare for Friday’s EMP meetings, we’re ready to do what we do best: sit down together, focus on what matters, and celebrate your child’s unique journey.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about acronyms or test scores—it’s about watching every student bloom in their own way.

*Name changed for privacy.

Finding Calm in the Chaos: A Reflection

    Last week, our school faced an unexpected tornado warning—a situation that could have easily thrown our community into chaos. With students who thrive on routine and are often overwhelmed by loud noises and sudden changes, it would be easy to assume the worst. But what I witnessed was the exact opposite.

    In the midst of uncertainty, there was a remarkable sense of calm and an outpouring of compassion. As some of our youngest students, especially in Kindergarten, became visibly upset, staff members quickly responded, adapting to each child’s unique needs. One teacher dropped down to sit criss-cross on the floor, patiently answering questions in a gentle, child-friendly way. Another stepped into her office and returned with bins of sensory fidgets, offering students something to focus on amid the confusion. Meanwhile, another staff member made his way down the hall with high-fives and smiles, meeting students with a burst of positive energy.

    What truly struck me was how, without a word, our team morphed to support our students in individualized ways. Some teachers quietly whispered with our concrete thinkers, offering the facts and details they needed without overwhelming those who couldn’t handle it. It was as if our staff instinctively knew how to be exactly what each student needed in that uncertain moment.     As I watched it all unfold, I felt a deep sense of pride. There’s a perception that “our kids can’t handle that”—that unexpected disruptions would send them spiraling. But they can, and they did. Not because it was easy or comfortable, but because of the care, intention, and teamwork of the adults around them. In those fifteen minutes, our community became a living, breathing example of meeting students exactly where they are.     Thankfully, a tornado did not touch down near us, and soon, we returned to our regular schedule. But what happened in those few minutes—staff leaning in, students surprising themselves, and everyone finding beauty in the unknown—left an impression that will last far longer. Moments like this remind me why we do what we do, and how powerful it is when we come together as a community. In the end, it wasn’t just a tornado warning. It was a testament to our students’ resilience and our staff’s unwavering dedication.

Building Cabins, Building Minds: The Power of Hands-On Learning for Neurodivergent Learners

Last week, Ms. Hershelman’s class at our school brought the novel Trouble River to life by constructing a cabin, reflecting the story's setting and themes. This immersive experience went beyond just reading about the story—it allowed students to physically engage with the material in a way that deepened their understanding and connection to it. This creative approach to education is a fantastic example of how hands-on learning can enhance engagement, especially for neurodivergent learners.

Why Hands-On Learning Matters for Neurodivergent Students

For students with learning differences hands-on learning isn’t just an option—it’s often essential. Neurodivergent learners, including those with ADHD, dyslexia, and other differences, tend to thrive in environments where they can engage all their senses. Building a cabin isn’t just a fun activity; it incorporates visual, tactile, and kinesthetic learning, which helps reinforce the content in a way that traditional reading or lecture-based learning may not.

Research shows that multisensory learning techniques can improve information retention and comprehension, particularly for students with dyslexia and other processing disorders. A study from the Journal of Learning Disabilities indicates that students who engage in hands-on, multisensory learning activities show higher levels of engagement and retention than those taught through traditional methods. In Ms. Hershelman’s class, building the cabin transforms the abstract world of Trouble River into something tangible and memorable.

Bringing Hands-On Learning Home

While these techniques are used in classrooms, there are also ways to bring hands-on learning into your home to support your neurodivergent child’s education. Here are a few ideas for parents to try:

1. Create Sensory Bins

Sensory bins are a great way to engage tactile learners. You can fill them with materials that correspond to your child’s current lessons—such as sand or water for geography lessons or small figures to represent characters from a book they’re reading. This type of multisensory play helps solidify abstract concepts.

2. Dramatize Lessons

Just like Ms. Hershelman’s class built a cabin to bring their novel to life, you can use simple props at home to reenact scenes from a story or history lesson. Acting out a concept engages multiple senses and can help children better remember what they’ve learned.

3. Incorporate Art and Building Projects

For students who struggle with reading comprehension, drawing or building scenes from the text can be a powerful way to connect with the material. Encourage your child to build a model of a setting, create a comic strip of important scenes, or design a “book in a box” where they place objects that represent key parts of the story inside a small box or diorama.

4. Use Movement for Math and Science

Math manipulatives like blocks or beads are excellent for making abstract concepts concrete. Even outside the classroom, movement-based activities like jumping rope while practicing multiplication or using play dough to model science concepts can be incredibly beneficial.

For more ideas on how to apply these strategies at home, check out these resources:

• Understood.org offers a wide range of resources for parents of children with learning and attention issues. Their articles on multisensory learning and specific strategies for neurodivergent students are particularly helpful.
• The Child Mind Institute provides comprehensive advice on how parents can help their neurodivergent children succeed both in and out of the classroom. They offer hands-on learning tips and strategies for home.
• ADDitude Magazine focuses on ADHD, learning disabilities, and related issues. Their website has practical advice and techniques for multisensory learning and engaging neurodivergent students at home.

At our school, we understand the importance of making learning accessible and engaging for all students, particularly those who learn differently. Ms. Hershelman’s class serves as a perfect reminder that when we meet students where they are, providing them with opportunities to interact with their education in meaningful ways, we open doors to deeper understanding and success.

How Video Games Saved My Life

We are so excited to have Mr. Rich join us this year! Please take the time to read some of his story below: 

Hello, everyone! My name is Rich Bowman, and I’m excited to be the new IT Director and Technology Teacher at The John Crosland School. As the head coach for our esports team, I feel compelled to share my story—a journey of how esports not only shaped my life but ultimately saved it.

Growing up in the volatile streets of Flatbush in Brooklyn, NY, my life was colored by challenges. My parents, Caribbean-American immigrants from Grenada, worked tirelessly to create a better life for my three brothers and I. They were hard workers especially when it came to the task of keeping us all safe. They were constantly worried about me spending too much time outside, especially given the dangers lurking in our neighborhood. Instead of succumbing to the pressures of my neighborhood, I discovered a refuge in video games. They became my escape, allowing me to connect with friends while remaining safe at home.

Through gaming, I found a community that I desperately needed. While many of my peers faced the harsh realities of our environment, I immersed myself in virtual worlds that sparked my imagination and fueled my passion. The friendships I built online transcended the confines of our neighborhood, creating bonds that would last a lifetime. I realized that gaming was not just a pastime; it was a lifeline that kept me from the pitfalls that consumed so many around me.

Today, I’m happily married and a proud father. I’ve become an avid esports competitor, achieving some of the highest ranks in games like Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and Smash Bros. Ultimate. But my most cherished role is that of a coach to my 11-year-old daughter, Charlotte. It’s a joy to watch her grow in this space, just as I did, and to bond over our shared passion. Together, we explore the vibrant world of esports, connecting with family members scattered across the globe through gaming. It’s amazing how digital games can strengthen ties, turning distances into mere numbers on a map.

Esports is so much more than competition; it’s a powerful tool for growth and development, especially for middle and high school students. The sense of community that forms within an esports team is remarkable. For many kids, it provides a place to belong, a chance to connect with others who share similar interests. This community helps break down social barriers, fostering friendships that can last a lifetime.

The skills developed through gaming extend beyond the screen. Esports challenges players to think critically and make quick decisions under pressure, honing their problem-solving abilities and strategic thinking. These qualities are essential not only in gaming but in navigating the complexities of life.

Competing in esports also builds confidence and resilience. Learning to cope with failure while celebrating success helps students understand that setbacks are part of the journey. This invaluable lesson empowers them to face challenges head-on, whether in school or in life.

Moreover, the collaborative nature of esports teaches kids the importance of teamwork and communication. Working together towards a common goal fosters skills that are beneficial in school projects and future careers. The bonds formed in the heat of competition often lead to lifelong friendships, enriching the lives of all involved.

As esports continues to grow, it opens doors to various career paths, from game design to marketing, coaching, and event management. By engaging in this vibrant ecosystem, students can explore potential interests and gain skills that will serve them well in the future.

In conclusion, I am incredibly grateful for the role that gaming has played in my life. It has kept me grounded, provided opportunities I never dreamed possible, and has allowed me to create a legacy of gaming within my family. I am eager to share this passion with my students and help them discover the countless benefits esports has to offer. Together, we’ll navigate this digital landscape, build a supportive community, and empower our students to thrive in every aspect of their lives.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I hope it inspires others to see the potential that lies within esports—not just as a pastime, but as a life-changing experience.

Let’s get gaming!

Embracing Flexible Seating for a Dynamic Classroom

This year, we’re excited to take a significant step towards creating more engaging and student-centered learning environments by introducing flexible seating in our classrooms. Our annual fund is dedicated to moving away from the stiff, traditional student and teacher desks to create spaces that are not only comfortable but also conducive to learning.

Why Flexible Seating?

Research shows that flexible seating offers numerous benefits, from improving focus and collaboration to supporting different learning styles. Traditional desks can often feel rigid and limiting, whereas flexible seating provides students with the freedom to choose how they learn best. Whether they prefer standing desks, wobble stools, or floor rockers, students can find the option that helps them stay engaged and comfortable.

The Science Behind It

Flexible seating is more than just a trend; it’s rooted in neuroscience. Different seating options can provide proprioceptive input, which helps students become more aware of their body’s position in space, leading to better focus and behavior. For students who benefit from movement, seating that allows for subtle rocking or bouncing can provide calming vestibular input, helping them regulate their sensory needs while learning.

For more insights on how proprioceptive input and vestibular input support learning, check out these helpful articles:

• Proprioceptive Input: The Magic Pill for Sensory Regulation
  This article explains proprioceptive input, often referred to as "heavy work," which involves activities like pushing, pulling, and lifting. It discusses how this input helps children with sensory regulation, improves body awareness, and supports calming and organizing the nervous system. The article also provides practical examples and tips for incorporating proprioceptive activities into daily routines.
  Read more here​ (The OT Butterfly | Official Website)

• How the Vestibular System Works and Its Importance for Learning
  This article covers how the vestibular system, which governs balance and spatial orientation, plays a critical role in learning. It explains how vestibular input affects balance, postural control, and attention, all of which are crucial for classroom activities. It also highlights the challenges faced by children who have an under or over-responsive vestibular system.
  Read more here​ (GriffinOT).

Looking Forward

We believe that creating flexible, student-centered classrooms will help all of our students thrive. With your support, we’re transforming our learning spaces into environments where students can feel comfortable, focused, and ready to engage in their learning.

Thank you for helping us build classrooms that move with our students! If you are interested in learning more or donating, click here!

A Parent's Perspective on the First Days of School

 The following was written by a current parent who wished to remain anonymous: 

As the first days of school approach, a familiar mix of emotions stirs within me. There’s a blend of excitement, hope, and yes, a touch of anxiety. Watching my child, who has unique learning differences, prepare for a new school year brings a wave of memories and a deep sense of anticipation.

I remember our first school experience vividly. My heart ached as I saw my little one struggle with the challenges of fitting into a traditional classroom. The fears of the unknown, the tears at the thought of change, and the sleepless nights were all too real. But alongside these struggles, there were moments of pure, unadulterated joy.

I recall the first time we visited JCS together before the start of the year at the New Family Social. My child clung to my hand tightly, eyes wide. We walked through the halls, met teachers, and peeked into classrooms. It wasn’t long before my child, with a smile, whispered, “I think I can do this, Mom.” That small, hopeful statement was enough to light up my world.

In those early days, I learned the importance of creating a supportive environment at home. Establishing a consistent routine made mornings less hectic and provided a sense of security. We’d pack lunches together the night before, choosing favorite snacks to add a touch of comfort to the day. These small rituals became our anchors, grounding us amidst the whirlwind of new experiences.

I found that open communication was key. Each evening, we’d talk about the day, sharing stories of triumphs and challenges. One night, my child excitedly recounted how a teacher had used a fun game to explain a difficult concept. “I actually understood it, Mom!” That sparkle in my child’s eyes was worth everything.

And then there were the mornings when anxiety threatened to overshadow the excitement. I discovered that a reassuring hug and a few minutes of quiet time together could work wonders. While it didn’t always do the trick, we found a pattern that helped. We’d sit by the window, watching the world wake up, and I’d remind my child of the strength and bravery within. “You’ve got this. Just be yourself, and everything will fall into place.”

I also remember the relief at knowing JCS did a staggered start with only half the school attending at a time for a half day before everyone starting back for full days. Knowing my child had time to adapt at their own pace in a smaller group provided immense relief. The teachers and staff, with their unwavering support and understanding, became our extended family. They recognized my child’s unique strengths and challenges, tailoring their approach to fit my child’s needs.

One particularly heartwarming memory is of the first time my child made a new friend. The two of them bonded over a shared love of dinosaurs, their animated conversations a testament to the power of connection. Seeing my child, once so apprehensive, now chatting and laughing with a new friend, was a poignant reminder of the beauty of growth and adaptation.

As we stand on the brink of another school year, I’m filled with gratitude. The journey isn’t always easy, but it’s rich with moments that make every step worthwhile. To other parents out there, navigating similar paths, I say this: embrace the journey, celebrate the small victories, and trust in the resilience of your child. Together, we can face the new school year with hope and courage.

Easing Transition Times: Tips for Caregivers and How JCS Supports Students with Learning Differences

Transition times can be particularly challenging for students with learning differences. Whether it's moving from one activity to another, shifting from school to home, or adjusting to a new school year, these changes can be sources of stress and anxiety. At The John Crosland School, we understand these challenges and strive to provide a supportive environment that helps students navigate these transitions smoothly. Here are some tips for parents to support their children during transition times, along with insights into how we implement these strategies at our school.

1. Establish a Routine

At Home:

Consistency is key for children with learning differences. Establishing a daily routine helps create a sense of predictability and security. Try to keep wake-up times, meals, homework sessions, and bedtimes consistent. Visual schedules can be particularly helpful, allowing your child to see what their day will look like.

At The John Crosland School:

We implement structured daily routines within the classroom. Visual schedules and clear, predictable patterns help students feel more in control and reduce anxiety about what's coming next. Teachers at Crosland are trained to maintain consistency while being flexible enough to adapt to individual needs.

2. Use Transition Warnings

At Home:

Give your child warnings before a transition occurs. For example, "In 10 minutes, it will be time to start your homework," followed by a five-minute reminder. This helps prepare them mentally for the change.

At The John Crosland School:

Our teachers use similar strategies, providing students with advance notice before transitioning between activities. This approach helps students gradually shift their focus and reduces resistance to change.

3. Create a Transition Ritual

At Home:

Having a specific ritual for transitions can ease the process. This could be a simple activity like a breathing exercise, a favorite song, or a brief walk. These rituals signal to the brain that a transition is coming and can make the shift smoother.

At The John Crosland School:

We incorporate calming activities and rituals into our daily schedule. Whether it's a few minutes of mindfulness, a short movement break in the sensory space lab, or a calming story, these rituals help students adjust and prepare for the next part of their day.

4. Communicate Clearly and Positively

At Home:

Clear, concise, and positive communication is crucial. Instead of saying, "Don't be late for school," try "Let's make sure we leave on time for a great start to your day." Positive reinforcement and clear instructions can reduce anxiety and resistance.

At The John Crosland School:

Our teachers are trained in positive reinforcement techniques and effective communication strategies. We focus on building strong relationships with our students, understanding their individual needs, and communicating in ways that foster trust and cooperation.

How The John Crosland School Supports Transitions

At JCS, we go beyond these strategies to provide comprehensive support for our students. Our small class sizes allow for individualized attention, ensuring that each student's unique needs are met. We offer social skills coaching and counseling services to help students develop coping strategies for transitions and other challenges. Additionally, our collaboration with parents ensures that the support we provide at school is reinforced at home, creating a cohesive and consistent experience for our students.

We also host events like our New Family Social, which includes activities such as a scavenger hunt of important places on campus and opportunities to meet teachers. These events are designed to make transitions into our school community as seamless and welcoming as possible for both students and their families.

Transitions are a natural part of life, but they don’t have to be a source of stress. With the right strategies and support, students with learning differences can navigate these changes successfully. At The John Crosland School, we are dedicated to providing the tools and environment necessary for our students to thrive during transitions and beyond.