The Bi-County Brief
February 2025
Message from the Executive Director
Wow, this school year is flying by!! It’s so hard to believe that we are more than halfway through the year, and Spring is on the horizon!! Over the past few months as I have visited classrooms, I have continued to be impressed by all that is happening!! It absolutely makes my day better to now have the BICO Central Office located in a school building, providing the opportunity to interact with students, staff and see learning happening every day.
In addition to being present at Johnson School, I have enjoyed my visits to our host school programs where I have had the opportunity to jump into classroom lessons and spend time learning how our students learn best!!! I have also enjoyed meeting many families during Family engagement activities that have taken place over the past few months.
As you will see below, we are finally fully up and running at Johnson School. This project has united all of our Public Day School Programs (LRTC, STAP, ATP, SHS, SMS, SELC and our Central Office). When they say it takes a village, this project absolutely has done that!! Thank you to all who were involved in any aspect from painting, moving, cleaning, setting up classrooms, packing/unpacking, you name it!!! No matter how big or small, your contributions were noticed and greatly appreciated.
The articles in this newsletter will give you some insight into what has been happening across the collaborative over the past few months. You will also note some upcoming activities as well as some resources that may be helpful.
A Fresh Start
in a New Space
As the calendar turned to December’s final days, the Summit community bid farewell to our longtime home at 2140 Providence Highway. Although we had been planning for the move since the summer of 2024, unforeseen delays pushed our departure to the very end of the year. But with great teamwork and dedication, the staff and many students worked hard in the week leading up to the Christmas break to ensure a smooth transition.
A special thank you to Michelle, Melanie, Scott, and Andy—this move wouldn’t have been possible without them! On the rainy last day of December, the moving trucks rolled in, and we officially said goodbye to our home of the past eight years.
The move went off without a hitch, and on January 2nd, our staff arrived at the new school to unpack, set up, and prepare for the students’ arrival on January 6th. When the students walked through the doors, they were welcomed by both familiar and new faces.
We’d like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our parents for their patience, our staff for their unwavering support, and especially our students for their flexibility during this exciting transition. We look forward to many years in our new space, with access to exciting new amenities like the gym, expanded school store, and the new kitchen and cafeteria. We’re also eager to build new relationships, forge new friendships, and create fresh opportunities in our new community. Here’s to the next chapter!
Family Resource Corner
A community resource fair is also being held from 6 to 8 p.m. on March 5 in the cafeteria of Ahern Middle School at 111 Mechanic St. in Foxboro. The event will bring together local organizations specializing in family support, emotional health, social groups, education, sports and enrichment for children.
COMING SOON!
Picture Day
Picture Day is coming on Monday, March 3!
You can place your order on mylifetouch.com using your Picture Day ID: EVT2QZ7Q2. Order before midnight on Picture Day to get FREE shipping!
Your child can also bring their completed flyer with cash or check on Picture Day.
Transition Fair
Please join Malden and Medford Public Schools from 6 to 8 p.m. on March 12 for a Transition Fair with over 30 Exhibitors. This event is being held inside the Medford High School Gymnasium. The goal of this event is to give caretakers, students, and staff access and information about Transition Resources. Information will be provided on topics including family support, adult agencies, vocational services, employment support, recreation, and supported housing will be available- with representatives from each agency. Please use this link for further information.
Glow As You Grow at Moon Lily in Norwood
Upcoming Dates
January Professional Speaker Highlights:
Toby Burrell, SAB Solutions
The Bi-County Collaborative (BICO) community had the pleasure of welcoming Toby Burrell from SAB Solutions as our January 2025 Professional Speaker. Toby’s passion for barcode and scanning technology was evident as he engaged students and staff with a fascinating presentation.
During his visit, Toby shared the intriguing history of barcodes, highlighting that this transformative technology was developed right here in Massachusetts. To make the session interactive and educational, he brought a variety of scanners to demonstrate their functionality and versatility.
Toby also shed light on the wide array of career opportunities that involve barcode technology. From medicine to large warehouses and even banking, he explained how this technology is a critical component in numerous industries, inspiring students to consider potential career paths in these fields.
A special highlight of Toby’s visit was his connection to Summit Convenience. SAB Solutions generously donated the point-of-sale (POS) cash register system currently in use at the store, showcasing the practical applications of barcode technology in a real-world setting.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Toby Burrell and SAB Solutions for their invaluable contributions to the BICO community and for inspiring our students with their expertise and generosity.
After giving his speech, Toby Burrell was thanked by Casey Foreman.
Victorian Adventures with A Christmas Carol and a Live Theater Experience
This holiday season, our TESP students, under the instruction of Ms. Rachel Carpenter and Mrs. Julia Caruso and staff embarked on a fantastic journey back in time to the Victorian Era, all while diving into the classic tale of A Christmas Carol. But that’s not all! This unit wasn’t just about reading — it was about experiencing history, practicing real-life skills, and getting creative along the way!
Exploring the Victorian Era!
Students didn’t just listen to the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and his magical transformation — they took it a step further by learning all about the fascinating world of the Victorians. From education and jobs to transportation, entertainment, and fashion, students explored how people lived in the 1800s. They even read informational texts about topics like Victorian medicine and the daily lives of children. Afterward, they answered comprehension questions to dig deeper into their newfound knowledge.
Writing Their Own Stories
With all that amazing knowledge, it was time to get creative! Students used what they learned to write their very own essays about the Victorian Era. This writing journey involved brainstorming, drafting, revising, and finally sharing their completed essays — a true display of their hard work and dedication.
Live Theater Experience at Hanover Theater
The excitement didn’t stop there! As the grand finale to the unit, students attended a live performance of A Christmas Carol at the Hanover Theater in Worcester. It was a chance for them to see the story come to life on stage and experience the magic of theater in a big way! Plus, they practiced important social skills, making connections with their peers while enjoying the experience.
Holiday Pie Fundraiser —
Math, Communication, and Teamwork
Starting in November, students got busy raising money for their theater tickets through a holiday pie fundraiser. Not only did they practice math and organizational skills by tracking orders and profits, but they also fine-tuned their communication and social skills when delivering the pies. It was a wonderful way to give back while learning important life skills!
Annual Holiday Breakfast
In December, the TEP program joined the AMS program in celebrating the winter holiday by participating in a celebration breakfast at the King St. Cafe in Franklin. Students and staff were encouraged to wear their comfiest pajamas and eat some delicious breakfast dishes!
From left to right, Declan Murphy, Darleen Sunday, Jonah Waxman, Beth Hebb, Austen D’Olympia, Wyatt Grote, and Kaitlyn Havey.
The trip was a terrific opportunity for students to interact with peers from the AMS program as well as practice life skills. TEP students prepared for expected behavior at a restaurant, placing an order, paying for a check and calculating tax and tip. It was an enjoyable time for all involved and left lasting memories for the students involved in the programs!
Teamwork
at TEP
In the classroom TEP students participated in a problem- solving, team-building activity led by Kelsie Phillips and Tina Schairer, School Adjustment Counselors. Students were tasked with designing a floatable device that would not sink. Materials such as tinfoil, marbles, and a container of water were used for the experiment. The collaboration among students was fantastic and they enjoyed the chance to participate in a hands-on project.
Declan Murphy and Matthew Milton work together on their floating vessel.
AMS Battleship Cove Field Trip
Battleship Cove is a non-profit war memorial and historic military museum in Fall River with an emphasis on naval heritage and a dedication to honoring the veterans who served in defense of our country. AMS students enjoyed exploring the ships and museum on a beautiful November Day!
Starting in November, students got busy raising money for their theater tickets through a holiday pie fundraiser. Not only did they practice math and organizational skills by tracking orders and profits, but they also fine-tuned their communication and social skills when delivering the pies. It was a wonderful way to give back while learning important life skills!
AMS Heritage Museum Field Trip
At the American Heritage Museum on Jan. 8, AMS students explored America’s conflicts, beginning with the Revolutionary War to today.
We discovered and interacted with our heritage through history, the national effort of developing new technologies of warfare, and the human impact of America’s fight to preserve the freedom we all hold dear.
A Holiday Outing to
Bass Pro Shops
During the month of December, several BICO classrooms took trips to Bass Pro Shops in Foxboro to explore the Winter Wonderland, see Santa, and soak up the holiday spirit. Students enjoyed the various visual displays and sensory experiences, and exercised their functional communication skills out in the community!
Students from the Preschool & Elementary Developmental programs in Mansfield.
Students and staff from the Life Roles Transition Center at the Johnson School in Walpole posed for photos at Bass Pro Shops in Foxboro.
Aiden Knight is all smiles as he gives his list to Santa!
Dennis D’Ambra and Ms. Shannon get in the spirit!
Jovan Rivers from SEAP enjoyed his visit with Santa!
Staying Healthy in the New Year:
A Reminder for Families and Students
As we begin a new year, it’s the perfect time to prioritize health and wellness. The winter months bring an increase in colds, flu, and other illnesses, making it important to stay vigilant and practice healthy habits. Here are some essential reminders to help keep our students, families, and staff healthy and safe:
When to Stay Home from School
It’s best to keep your child home and consult with their healthcare provider if they experience any of the following symptoms:
For students who are medically fragile, it is especially important to monitor symptoms closely and seek care early to prevent complications.
When to Contact Your Child’s Doctor
Call your healthcare provider if:
Prompt medical care can prevent more serious illness and support faster recovery.
Healthy Habits to Prevent Illness
Thank you for your partnership in keeping our BiCounty Collaborative community healthy. Wishing you all a safe, healthy, and happy New Year!
Warm regards,
Beth Flanagan
Bicounty Collaborative Nurse Leader
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me. Let’s make this year one filled with wellness and success!