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Presenting: Amanda J's Art Class Exciting New Project - ARG!

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Exciting Student Project: Creating an Alternate Reality Game!

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Exciting Student Project: Creating an Alternate Reality Game!

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This term, our students embarked on an innovative and creative project—designing their very own Alternate Reality Game (ARG)! The project challenged them to combine artifacts, technology, and puzzles to create an immersive gaming experience. Together, they developed a detailed game flow chart, mapping out multiple routes and choices, allowing players to explore different paths within the game.

After the collaborative planning phase, each student took on a specific role based on their unique skills and interests. Some worked on animation to bring characters and scenes to life, while others focused on programming the interactive elements of the game. Several students contributed their talent in sculpting to create physical game artifacts, while others created stunning digital art for the game’s visuals. Our budding writers crafted intricate narratives and storylines to enrich the game world.

This project not only fostered creativity but also encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking as students combined their efforts to build a complex, engaging game. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and can’t wait to see the final result!

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A junior high mentor room challenged themselves to create as many words as possible from the letters 'Welcome to Fall.' They rose to the occasion and successfully produced 80 words!

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Trained & Owned by: Bonnie Turek, West Clinical Director

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Fenway: NewHope Academy's Gentle Giant and Trusted Therapy Dog

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Fenway: NewHope Academy's Gentle Giant and Trusted Therapy Dog

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At NewHope Academy, Fenway, a majestic Bernese Mountain Dog, holds a special place as the school’s therapy dog.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are known for their affectionate and patient demeanor, and Fenway is no exception. Her role at NHA is much more than just a companion—she's a source of comfort for students facing stress, anxiety, or the typical challenges of school life. With her big, soft coat and kind eyes, she offers an immediate sense of calm to those around her.

Students often seek out Fenway during difficult moments or even just to take a break with a loyal friend. Her presence helps students regulate their emotions, making it easier to focus, relax, and feel supported. Research shows that therapy dogs like Fenway can reduce stress and anxiety levels, and her impact is felt across the entire NHA community.

More than just a therapy dog, Fenway is a treasured member of the NHA family, bringing peace, joy, and connection to everyone she meets.

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Reducing School Refusal and Increasing Homework Cooperation: Strategies for Supporting Middle and High School Students with Emotional Disabilities

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Brian Katz, the school director at NewHope Academy, presents a "Lunch and Learn" - a casual yet informative session on how NHA supports bright students with emotional disabilities.

DATE: October 10

TIME: 2:00 PM

ZOOM LINK: Click here to join the event

Meeting ID: 980 8886 348

Passcode: 123456

This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about NewHope's tailored approaches that help students with unique emotional needs reach their full academic potential.

NHA provides an individualized environment for twice-exceptional students. Our expert staff ensures that students with emotional challenges are empowered to succeed academically, emotionally, and socially.

During this webinar, we’ll cover:

Reducing School Refusal and Increasing Homework Cooperation: Strategies for Supporting Middle and High School Students with Emotional Disabilities

Effective strategies for addressing school refusal and improving homework cooperation, specifically tailored for middle and high school students with emotional disabilities.

Our expert speakers will share practical approaches that can help make a real difference in the classroom and at home.

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SIGN UP: It's Parent Teacher Conference Time!

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SIGN UP: It's Parent Teacher Conference Time!

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DATE: October 17, 2024

PTC WIZARD: PTC Wizard Link

TIMELINE:

10.02.24 - info on how to schedule PTCs will be sent out

10.03.24 - scheduling opens @ 7:00AM

10.15.24 - scheduling closes @ 11:55PM

Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, October 17. As a result, there will be no school for students on that day.

PTCs will continue to be virtual. Parents can use PTC Wizard to schedule meetings with all of their teachers from one place.

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After 23 years of dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment, we bid a heartfelt farewell to Brandy Larrance, the visionary owner of NewHope Academy. Brandy bought NHA in 2010 and has been at the helm of our school, guiding it through seasons of growth, challenges, and triumphs.

As Brandy steps away from her role, she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of NewHope students and educators. While her presence will be greatly missed, her spirit, values, and the foundation she has built will remain at the core of NewHope Academy.

Brandy’s journey with NHA began long before she became its owner. She started as an English teacher, a role she passionately held for three years, inspiring students to explore the power of words and fostering a love for learning. Her dedication and natural leadership skills soon led her to serve as the principal for five years, during which she set high standards and worked tirelessly to create an environment where every student could thrive.

Meanwhile, Dave Larrance started his NHA journey as a part-time sub in 2003, joined full-time in 2009, and has managed the school’s financial aspects as the Business Manager since 2010. As Dave became more involved in the school community, his contributions became essential to the daily life of the school, making him a beloved figure among students and staff.

When Brandy took ownership of NewHope Academy, she and Dave inherited more than a school—they embraced a community, a family. Over the years, through high standards and sheer determination, they transformed NewHope into the nurturing, dynamic, and impactful institution it is today. Brandy spent countless hours building a school that honors each student's journey, creating a place where they are seen, heard, and empowered, while Dave played a crucial role in fostering a supportive atmosphere and ensuring financial success.

Brandy’s and Dave's presence has been felt in every corner of NewHope. From the carefully curated learning spaces to the inspiring and forward-thinking curricula, their touch is everywhere. Together, they demonstrated that hard work, compassion, and vision are the cornerstones of genuine leadership.

Thank you, Brandy and Dave, for being the heart and soul of our community. Your impact is immeasurable, and your legacy will live on in the halls, classrooms, and hearts of NewHope Academy forever. We wish you all the best on your next journey, knowing that wherever you go, you will continue to inspire, lead, and make a difference!

With admiration & respect,
Your fellow NHA members

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CAAEL Sports Update: Bowling & Football Kick Off the Season

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CAAEL Sports Update: Bowling & Football Kick Off the Season

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The NewHope Academy CAAEL bowling team started their season strong last week at Arlington Lanes. With five eligible bowlers, the team combined for an impressive 96.4 average, with a high score of 148. Congratulations to the NHA bowlers as they roll into what promises to be a great season!

On the football field, the NHA Legends also had an exciting start. In their first game of the season at Walsh Academy, both teams combined players due to low eligibility on the Walsh side. The Legends battled hard, delivering some standout plays. With a 1-0 start, they look forward to taking on South Campus next week. Kudos to all the NHA players!

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In a recent math class at NHA, students took charge of their own learning by engaging in a project that allowed them to explore a mathematical topic of their choice! This project encouraged creativity and critical thinking as students selected topics ranging from real-world applications, the history/origins of math, and famous mathematicians. Each student delved deep into their chosen subject, conducting research and developed a presentation to share with the class. The presentations were not only informative but also sparked lively discussions, allowing students to learn from one another and see math through various lenses.

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Instituted by: NHA's therapists Luke & Kathy 

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Supporting Our Community: NHA's Parent Group!

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Supporting Our Community: NHA's Parent Group!

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WHO: NHA parents

WHEN: Wednesday evenings, 6PM

HOW: Contact Luke or Kathy @

luke.moran@sesischools.com

kathy.szumski@sesischools.com

Whether you’re seeking guidance on parenting challenges, looking to connect with other parents, or simply want to learn more about supporting your child’s well-being, this group offers a supportive and informative space.

Luke Moran and Kathy Szumski bring their expertise and compassion to each session, addressing various topics relevant to parenting and family dynamics. Their goal is to create an open and welcoming environment where parents can find support, share strategies, and gain practical advice.

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NHA Art Teachers: Amanda J. Bianco & Sara Wodarski

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We are incredibly proud of our students and their remarkable achievements in the realm of art. Our students continue to shine brightly, showcasing their talents and dedication through their creative endeavors. It's this that makes our school a dynamic environment where artistic expression thrives.

Congrats to all our students for their outstanding achievements and for making NewHope Academy a place where excellence and creativity are celebrated! We look forward to showcasing many more artistic successes in the future!

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A Strong Partnership with D214: Dr. Deirdre Williams, Amy Nahigian, & Jonathan Senderak, District Special Ed. Coordinators

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A Strong Partnership with D214: Dr. Deirdre Williams, Amy Nahigian, & Jonathan Senderak, District Special Ed. Coordinators

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At NewHope Academy, we believe that collaboration is key to providing the best possible education and support for our students. One of our most valued partnerships is with District 214, a relationship that has flourished over the years through mutual dedication and a shared commitment to student success.

We are particularly grateful for the efforts of District 214’s Special Education Coordinators, Dr. Deirdre Williams, Amy Nahigian, and Jonathan Senderak. Their dedication and expertise have been instrumental in strengthening our partnership and enhancing the support we provide to our students.

The strong, positive relationship between District 214 and NewHope Academy is built on trust, open communication, and a deep understanding of our common goals. Together, we strive to provide a comprehensive and enriching education that prepares students for their future endeavors, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and resilience needed to succeed.

We are proud to celebrate this partnership, which reflects our commitment to excellence and our dedication to fostering a brighter future for every student!

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Meet Luke: An NHA therapist for 3 years!

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Therapist of the Month: Luke Moran, Therapist

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Therapist of the Month: Luke Moran, Therapist

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At NewHope Academy, we’re fortunate to have an incredible team of professionals dedicated to supporting our students’ well-being, and Luke Moran is a standout among them. As a licensed professional counselor, Luke has been making a positive impact at NewHope Academy for the past 3 years. He combines his extensive knowledge and expertise with a fantastic personality, bringing warmth, humor, and a genuine sense of empathy to every interaction. His approach makes students feel comfortable and understood from the moment they step into his office.

What truly sets Luke apart is his ability to balance his approachable nature with a strong sense of boundaries. He understands the importance of creating a safe and structured environment where students can explore their thoughts and feelings openly. Luke’s firm yet compassionate approach helps students develop the skills they need to navigate challenges and build resilience.

With his Master's degree in Clinical Psychology, Counseling Specialization, double focus in Children and adolescents and Trauma and Crisis Intervention, and dedication to his craft, Luke has earned the trust of students, families, and colleagues alike. His presence at NewHope Academy is a testament to the power of blending kindness with structure, allowing every student to feel supported on their journey to personal growth.

Luke's dedication extends beyond students to their families as well. Together with his dedicated colleague, Kathy Szumski, Luke leads a Parent Group that provides a welcoming space for parents to connect, share experiences, and build a supportive community. His leadership in this group ensures that parents not only feel supported but also empowered to navigate their unique challenges with confidence.

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Meet Amanda: An NHA teacher for 5 years!

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Teacher of the Month: Amanda J. Bianco, Art Teacher

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Teacher of the Month: Amanda J. Bianco, Art Teacher

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Amanda, NHA West Campus's dedicated art teacher, has been a vital part of NewHope Academy for the past 5 years. She embodies the spirit of lifelong learning, with a passion for creativity that extends far beyond the classroom. Amanda continually explores new techniques, mediums, and artistic styles by taking classes at the Art Institute and her local community college, ensuring her teaching methods are fresh and inspiring.

Her commitment to her own education enriches her students’ experiences, fostering an environment where curiosity and growth are celebrated. Amanda feels fortunate to work with incredibly talented students, whose creativity has earned awards at the annual CAEEL Art Show and led to acceptances at various art schools after graduation. Her approach not only enhances her own skills but also inspires her students to view learning as a continuous and joyful journey.

NewHope Academy’s art program offers students an incredible opportunity to explore their creativity through a wide range of artistic mediums. Whether working with traditional materials like pencil, paint, and watercolors, or diving into the world of 3D sculptures and clay, students are encouraged to experiment and express themselves in unique ways. The program also embraces modern techniques, incorporating digital art to help students expand their skills in today's tech-driven world.

Both of NewHope's art teachers use the TAB (Teaching Artistic Behavior) approach, which highlights art’s practical real-world applications alongside creative skill building. This method empowers students to take charge of their artistic choices, fostering independence and critical thinking. Amanda’s passion for art and dedication to nurturing each student's creativity has made the art program a space where talent flourishes, self-expression is celebrated, and the connection between art and everyday life is fully realized.