Regional Resource Center Updates
November 6, 2026
Some of our students participated in a Halloween Film Lab sponsored in combination with the Special Needs Support Center and the Junction Arts and Media. These students stepped out of their comfort zone to be part of the Halloween Film Lab crew. They learned much more than how to operate a video camera and act in a film. They developed skills in the areas of self advocacy, teamwork, time management, public transportation use, and problem solving. A special shout out to Sarah McKinney who went above and beyond in order to support these students and families to make this endeavor successful.
Their hard work paid off when the film, "The Girl Who Cried Fox," won three awards (Judge's Choice, Audience Choice, and Creepiest Costume Design) at the JAM Halloween-a-thon.
If your student has mentioned "Fun Friday" at home, you might be wondering what it is and why we do it! Fun Friday is a weekly tradition in the Regional Resource Center designed to combine structured learning with community-based recreation. A typical Friday includes Minute of Music, math games, team trivia, and an afternoon recreational activity. I’ll share more details about each component in upcoming newsletters, but today I want to highlight our recreational activities.
Every Friday afternoon, our students head out into the community—sometimes in smaller groups and other times all together, like our recent pickleball game! While these trips are always fun, they serve a much bigger educational purpose. Community outings help students develop:
Physical Activity & Movement
Social Skills & Peer Collaboration
Problem-Solving & Real-World Adaptability
Self-Confidence & Independence
Recently, one of our student groups enjoyed a scenic trail hike behind Occum Pond in Hanover. Seeing the pure joy and independence our students demonstrate out in the community is truly one of the highlights of our week!
The RRC students operate many businesses throughout the year that serve both as educational opportunities for our students as well as a fundraisers for our annual field trip to Maine. This autumn, the students are taking their learning outdoors by running a student-led leaf raking micro-business. This hands-on project turns everyday work into meaningful educational experiences:
Vocational & Motor Skills: Students practice tool safety, build physical stamina, learn proper, and work on following multi-step work routines.
Money Management: Math skills come alive as students will earn a portion of the revenue for their own personal use.
Social Skills: Students practice greeting customers, listening to instructions, and working together as a team.
Independence & Pride: Transforming a yard provides immediate, visible results—boosting self-esteem, work ethic, and personal pride in a job well done.
This enriching educational experience does create the potential for Ticks to catch a ride on your student. Please assist you student with ensuring ticks checks are completed each day. Also, the student rake in a variety of weather conditions. Please ensure they have appropriate outdoor gear/clothing for the predicted weather each day until Thanksgiving when the leaf raking business with conclude.