NRESC & The Phoenix
October 2025
Fall Happenings
It's Fall Y'all!
The Phoenix team loves a good theme. This month, teachers incorporated fall activities across into all aspects of learning using multi-sensory modes of learning.
Fat Bear Week
Fat Bear Week is a yearly celebration of the massive brown bears of Katmai National Park as they fatten up for hibernation. Each fall, people watch these bears fish for salmon and vote online to crown the biggest, chunkiest bear of the season. It’s part wildlife education, part light-hearted competition—and a great reminder of how incredible (and enormous) nature can be. Students celebrated this annual event during group and bedside instruction.
World Taco Day
Students at Phoenix celebrated of one of the world’s most beloved street foods: the taco. Observed on the first Tuesday of October, it’s a day to appreciate the endless variety tacos offer. Rooted in Mexican culinary tradition, tacos have become a global favorite, with each region adding its own twist 🌮
Science Unit: Solids, Liquids and Gases
This month, we explored the states of matter—solids, liquids, and gases. After reading about mass, we conducted hands-on experiments to observe how mass can be moved and measured in different ways.
Bedside Learning
Bedside instruction offers a vital connection to education. Whether it takes place in a hospital or at classroom, this personalized approach helps students stay engaged with their studies, maintain a sense of normalcy, and continue progressing academically. It’s not just about lessons, it’s about support, inclusion, and equitable access.
World Octopus Day
Ms. Heather's students at Phoenix celebrate ocean life! World Octopus Day is celebrated annually on October 8th to highlight the intelligence, diversity, and ecological importance of octopuses. The day encourages learning about these fascinating creatures and supporting ocean conservation by reducing plastic use, choosing sustainable seafood, and donating to marine protection organizations
Week of Respect
In accordance with the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act, the week beginning with the first Monday in October is recognized across New Jersey as the Week of Respect. This year, it was observed from October 6 through October 10, 2025. The Week of Respect highlights the vital work of school safety and climate teams as they continue to promote and sustain a positive, supportive environment for all students. Our amazing staff joined in the fun and helped spread powerful messages all week long by dressing up and setting the tone for positivity, unity, and inclusion. Here’s how we showed our support each day:
🔷 Tuesday – BLUE Out Day: Stomp Out Bullying
Staff and students wore blue to stand in solidarity against bullying and show our commitment to kindness. The halls were a sea of blue — a simple but powerful statement!
🧦 Wednesday – Mismatched Day: Everyone is Unique
We celebrated individuality by rocking mismatched socks! Staff proudly showed that being different is something to embrace.
🏈 Thursday – Jersey/T-Shirt Day: We Are a Team
Team spirit was in full swing! Staff repped their favorite sports teams to remind students that we’re all in this together — one team, one goal: respect for all.
🎽 Friday – School Spirit Day: Get in the Spirit of Respect
We closed out the week strong with NRESC spirit wear or our school colors (blue or teal) to show pride in our community and our shared commitment to respect and inclusion.