11/2026

As we enter the fall season, things are settling into a wonderful routine here at the Philip J. Rock Center and School! Our students are becoming more familiar and comfortable with their daily school schedules and evening routines. It has been exciting to see them continue to grow in their independence, build relationships, and develop new skills.

Our students have also been busy getting out into the community and participating in meaningful experiences. Whether they are practicing everyday living skills, exploring new places, or engaging in community-based learning opportunities, each experience helps build confidence, independence, and connections beyond the classroom. We are proud of the progress our students continue to make!

As we move further into fall and prepare for the colder winter months, we will begin sending summer clothing home to make room for warmer clothing. We ask families to begin sending in appropriate winter clothing to ensure students are comfortable and prepared for the changing weather.

A Few Important Dates to Remember:

• November 6 – Parent-Teacher Conferences: Conferences will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. We look forward to connecting with families, celebrating student progress, and discussing goals for continued growth.

• November 22 – Annual Fall Closure Begins: All students must be picked up by 12:00 p.m.

• November 27 – PRC Reopens: Students may return beginning at 3:00 p.m.

As we approach the season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to thank our families for their continued trust, partnership, and support. It truly takes all of us working together to create meaningful opportunities for our students.

We look forward to a wonderful fall season filled with learning, growth, and new experiences. Thank you for being part of our PRC family!

Moving Forward… Together! 🍁

Nicole Englehart
Executive Director

Our students had a bear-y exciting time during Fat Bear Week! Throughout the week, students participated in hands-on activities that brought learning to life while exploring the world of bears.

Students went on a scavenger hunt at Bass Pro Shops, where they explored and searched for items related to bears and their habitats. Back at school, students rolled up their sleeves and made delicious Bear Bread, practicing important life skills along the way! Students also got creative by making their very own bear masks, showing off their artistic skills and creativity.

The fun didn't stop there! Students explored, smelled, and even tasted different types of smoked fish that bears enjoy eating. They also put their math and observation skills to work by tracking the weight of different bears and keeping a log to see which bear gained the most weight.

Fat Bear Week was filled with sensory experiences, real-world learning, creativity, teamwork, and plenty of fun! It was another great example of how our students learn best through meaningful, hands-on experiences.

What a BEAR-y wonderful week of learning! 🐻

Our students enjoyed a wonderful fall adventure filled with apple picking, pizza making, and lots of smiles! The day began with a trip to Jonamac Orchard, where students had the opportunity to experience one of fall's favorite traditions—apple picking! Students explored the orchard, enjoyed the fresh fall air, and picked their very own apples. This hands-on experience provided opportunities to engage their senses, practice communication skills, make choices, and participate in a fun community outing with their classmates and staff.

After spending time at the orchard, the fun continued with a special visit to Pizza Villa, Ms. Diane's family pizza restaurant! Students had the exciting opportunity to step into the world of pizza making and create their very own delicious pizzas. From preparing their pizzas to watching their creations come together, students were able to participate in a meaningful, hands-on experience while practicing important life skills. Of course, the best part was getting to sit down and enjoy the yummy pizzas they helped make!

Experiences like these are about so much more than just a fun day away from school. They provide our students with opportunities to build independence, explore their communities, engage in sensory experiences, and develop real-world skills in meaningful ways. Whether picking apples at the orchard or making pizza in a restaurant, our students were learning, growing, and creating wonderful memories along the way.

A special thank you to Ms. Diane and her family at Pizza Villa for welcoming our students and providing such a memorable experience! We are grateful for the opportunity to connect with our community and give our students experiences that bring learning to life.

From the apple orchard to the pizza oven, it was a day full of fall fun, delicious treats, and unforgettable memories!

Our students rolled up their sleeves and put their cooking skills to work during a fun and delicious cooking lesson! This time, the menu featured make-your-own Italian sub sandwiches, giving students the opportunity to become chefs and create a tasty meal of their own!

Throughout the lesson, students explored a variety of ingredients, including meats, cheeses, vegetables, and condiments. Each student had the opportunity to make choices, select their favorite toppings, and assemble their very own Italian sub. From layering ingredients to putting the finishing touches on their sandwiches, students practiced important skills such as following directions, making decisions, sequencing steps, and building independence in the kitchen.

Cooking lessons like these provide so much more than just a delicious meal! They allow students to engage their senses, explore different textures and flavors, strengthen fine motor skills, and practice everyday living skills in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Of course, the best part was getting to enjoy the finished product! After all their hard work, students were able to sit down, taste their creations, and take pride in making something for themselves.

At Philip J. Rock, we love creating opportunities for students to learn through hands-on experiences that promote independence, confidence, and real-world skills.

A little teamwork, a lot of delicious ingredients, and a whole lot of fun made this cooking lesson a recipe for success!

This month, we are excited to recognize TWO outstanding Staff of the Month recipients—Sherice and Joey! Both have demonstrated exceptional dedication, teamwork, and a commitment to putting our students first. Their positive attitudes, willingness to go above and beyond, and contributions to PRC do not go unnoticed. Please join us in congratulating Sherice and Joey and thanking them for all they do to make PRC a great place for our students and staff!

Fall is the perfect time for pumpkins, fresh air, and a little adventure! Our students had a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season with a trip to Abbey Farms Pumpkin Patch, where they enjoyed a day filled with fall fun, exploration, and memorable experiences!

Throughout the visit, students had the opportunity to explore the pumpkin patch, take in the sights and sounds of fall, and experience the excitement of being out in the community with their classmates and staff. From seeing pumpkins of all different shapes and sizes to enjoying the beautiful fall surroundings, there was plenty to discover!

The trip also provided wonderful opportunities for sensory exploration and hands-on learning. Students were able to experience the different colors, shapes, sizes, and textures of pumpkins while practicing communication, making choices, and engaging with their surroundings. These real-world experiences help students develop confidence, build independence, and strengthen important everyday skills outside of the classroom.

At Philip J. Rock, we believe that some of the best learning happens beyond the classroom walls. Community outings like our trip to Abbey Farms allow students to explore new environments, participate in seasonal traditions, and create meaningful memories with their peers and staff.

It was a pumpkin-perfect day filled with fall adventures, learning, laughter, and plenty of smiles! We love watching our Rockhounds explore the world around them, one adventure at a time!

Our students enjoyed a beautiful fall adventure with a trip to Morton Arboretum! With the leaves changing colors and the crisp autumn air all around, it was the perfect opportunity to get outside, explore nature, and experience the beauty of the season.

During their visit, students had the opportunity to take in the beautiful fall scenery and explore the many colors of autumn. From bright reds and oranges to golden yellows, the changing leaves provided a wonderful sensory experience. Students were able to observe the different colors, shapes, and textures of the leaves while enjoying the sights, sounds, and fresh air of the outdoors.

One of the highlights of the trip was a tram ride through the Arboretum! Students were able to sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic ride through the beautiful grounds. The tram provided a wonderful way for everyone to experience the changing seasons while taking in the trees, colorful foliage, and natural surroundings. It was a fun and accessible way for our students to explore the Arboretum and enjoy everything fall has to offer!

Beyond the beautiful scenery, this outing provided meaningful opportunities for learning and growth. Students were able to engage their senses, practice communication, experience a new environment, and participate in a community outing with their classmates and staff. Experiences like these help build independence, encourage curiosity, and provide opportunities for students to connect with the world around them.

At Philip J. Rock Center and School, we believe learning extends far beyond the classroom. Community outings like our trip to Morton Arboretum allow students to explore new places, experience seasonal changes firsthand, and create lasting memories together.

Our elementary students enjoyed an exciting adventure at St. James Farm, where they had the opportunity to explore, learn, and experience a variety of hands-on activities! This special outing was filled with unique sensory experiences, outdoor exploration, and plenty of opportunities to learn about animals, farming, and nature.

Throughout the visit, students had the opportunity to explore different animal skins and skulls, learning about animals through touch and hands-on discovery. Feeling the different textures of animal fur and examining the shapes and structures of skulls provided a meaningful sensory experience. These activities allowed students to explore the characteristics of different animals in a way that was engaging and accessible.

One of the highlights of the trip was learning what it is like to milk a cow! Students had the opportunity to experience an important part of farm life while learning more about where some of our everyday foods come from. This hands-on activity encouraged curiosity, exploration, and an appreciation for the work that goes into caring for farm animals.

The excitement didn't stop there! Students also had the opportunity to try their hand at archery! Shooting arrows was a fun and unique experience that encouraged students to practice coordination, focus, and motor skills while trying something new. It was wonderful to see our students participate in activities that challenged them and provided opportunities to build confidence.

At Philip J. Rock Center and School, we believe some of the most meaningful learning happens through real-world experiences. Trips like this allow our students to engage their senses, explore new environments, practice communication, and build independence while having fun with their classmates and staff.

A special thank you to St. James Farm for providing our elementary students with such a wonderful hands-on learning experience! We appreciate opportunities that allow our students to connect with nature, explore their interests, and experience new adventures.

We had some very special visitors at Philip J. Rock Center and School! DuPage County Animal Services stopped by for a fun and exciting visit, bringing along some furry friends for our students to meet and learn about!

During the visit, students had the opportunity to see different animals up close and learn more about the important role animals play in our lives. One of the highlights of the day was an adorable kitten that students were able to gently pet and interact with! The soft fur and opportunity to connect with the kitten provided a wonderful sensory experience and brought plenty of smiles to our students and staff.

Visits like these offer so much more than just an opportunity to meet cute animals. They provide meaningful experiences that encourage communication, sensory exploration, social interaction, and the development of empathy and kindness toward animals. Students were able to engage with the animals in a safe and supportive environment while practicing gentle touch and building confidence through new experiences.

At PRC, we love welcoming community partners who help bring learning to life in unique and exciting ways. Experiences like this allow our students to explore the world around them, make connections, and enjoy opportunities that might not otherwise be available in the classroom.

A huge thank you to DuPage County Animal Services for taking the time to visit PRC and share their furry friends with us! We appreciate your kindness and the wonderful experience you provided for our students.

It was truly a PAW-some day filled with learning, laughter, and lots of love! 🐱🐾

Our student-run microbusiness, We Rock Self Care, had an exciting opportunity to showcase its products at the Illinois Alliance of Administrators of Special Education (IAASE) Fall Conference! This was a wonderful opportunity to share the amazing things happening at Philip J. Rock Center and School while introducing educators and administrators from across the state to our students' hard work and creativity.

We Rock Self Care is more than just a business. It is a meaningful learning opportunity that allows our students to develop important vocational and life skills through creating, packaging, and preparing handmade self-care products. From soaps and scrubs to other self-care items, students are involved in the process while practicing communication, teamwork, following directions, and building independence.

Having a table at the IAASE Fall Conference allowed us to showcase these products while spreading the word about PRC and the unique educational opportunities we provide. It was a great way to connect with special education professionals, share our school's mission, and highlight the importance of providing students with meaningful, hands-on vocational experiences.

Opportunities like this remind us that our students are capable of incredible things when given the right tools, support, and opportunities to succeed. Every product represents more than just something handmade. It represents hard work, growth, creativity, and the development of skills that can carry over into everyday life and future employment opportunities.

We are incredibly proud of our students and the continued growth of We Rock Self Care! We look forward to expanding our microbusiness, creating new products, and finding even more opportunities to share the great things happening at PRC.

We Rock Self Care isn't just our business name—it's a reminder that our students truly ROCK!

Our Rockhounds enjoyed a wonderful visit to the Glen Ellyn Public Library, where they had the opportunity to explore the world of books, stories, and imagination! It was a fun and engaging outing that brought learning beyond the classroom and allowed students to experience all that our local library has to offer.

One of the highlights of the visit was a special read-aloud experience! Students had the opportunity to listen to a story, engage with the storytelling experience, and enjoy time together. Read-aloud activities are a wonderful way to encourage communication, build listening skills, introduce new vocabulary, and spark curiosity and imagination. For our students, stories can come to life through sounds, descriptions, repetition, and opportunities for interaction.

Following the read-aloud, students spent time exploring the library and discovering the many books available. They had the opportunity to browse different selections, explore books that interested them, and practice making choices. Whether enjoying the pages of a book, listening to a story, or simply experiencing a new environment, there was something for everyone to enjoy!

Community outings like this provide our students with meaningful opportunities to practice important life skills, build independence, and become more familiar with resources available in their community. Visiting the library also helps students develop an appreciation for books and literacy while encouraging them to explore new interests.

A special thank you to the Glen Ellyn Public Library for welcoming our students and providing such a wonderful experience! We appreciate our community partners who help create opportunities for our students to learn, explore, and grow.

Philip J. Rock Center and School was excited to participate in the Glen Ellyn Trunk or Treat event this year! Our students and staff joined in the Halloween festivities, bringing along our PRC van, plenty of candy, and lots of Rockhound spirit!

Our students had a wonderful time dressing up in their Halloween costumes and taking part in the excitement of the event. From creative costumes to the festive atmosphere, it was a great opportunity for students to enjoy a fun community experience alongside their peers and staff. Meanwhile, our dedicated staff handed out candy to trick-or-treaters, spreading smiles and Halloween cheer throughout the evening!

Beyond the costumes and candy, this event was also a fantastic opportunity to get PRC's name out into the Glen Ellyn community! As we continue to grow and strengthen our connections with the community, events like Trunk or Treat allow us to introduce more families and community members to our school, share who we are, and highlight the incredible students we serve. It was a wonderful way to show our Rockhound pride while being part of a special community tradition.

Community involvement is an important part of what we do at PRC. Whether through student outings, vocational opportunities, or community events, we are always looking for ways to build relationships, create meaningful experiences, and help our students feel connected to the world around them.

A very special thank you to Donna, our Job Coach, for having us be a part of this event! Her hard work, planning, and dedication helped make this opportunity possible for our students and staff. We truly appreciate her efforts in helping PRC become more involved and visible in our community.

It was a SPOOK-tacular evening filled with costumes, candy, community connections, and plenty of Rockhound pride! We look forward to continuing to build relationships and share all the wonderful things happening at Philip J. Rock Center and School!

Halloween was filled with tricks, treats, laughter, and plenty of spooky fun at Philip J. Rock Center and School! Our students enjoyed a full day of exciting activities, creative experiences, and opportunities to celebrate the holiday with their friends and staff.

The day kicked off with a variety of Halloween-themed activities, including a sensory haunted house and fun-filled game stations! Students had the opportunity to explore the haunted house, which was designed to provide a unique and engaging sensory experience. From different textures and sounds to spooky surprises, the haunted house brought Halloween to life in a way that allowed our students to explore and participate through their senses. The game stations added even more excitement, giving students opportunities to practice communication, teamwork, and motor skills while having a great time!

In the afternoon, the Halloween fun continued as students headed to a local Memory Care facility for some trick-or-treating! This special outing provided a wonderful opportunity for our students to connect with members of the community, show off their Halloween spirit, and spread a little holiday cheer. Experiences like these are a great reminder of how meaningful community connections can be for everyone involved.

To wrap up the festivities, students enjoyed a relaxing afternoon watching a movie and munching on some yummy snacks. After a busy day of Halloween adventures, it was the perfect way to wind down and enjoy time together.

A huge thank you to our amazing PRC team for planning, organizing, and making this special day possible! Your creativity, teamwork, and dedication helped create a memorable Halloween celebration for our students. We would also like to give a very special thank you to Aaisha for creating the Sensory Haunted House! The time, effort, and creativity that went into providing such a unique experience for our students truly made the day extra special.

At PRC, we love finding ways to make celebrations meaningful, accessible, and enjoyable for all of our students. Halloween was another wonderful example of our staff coming together to create experiences filled with learning, excitement, and lasting memories.

From spooky sensory adventures to sweet treats and community connections, it was a BOO-tiful day to be a Rockhound! 🐾🎃

Our students enjoyed a magical evening as students and staff from our PM residential shift headed out for a special trip to see a live performance of Cinderella! It was a wonderful opportunity for students to experience the excitement of live theater while enjoying a familiar fairy tale brought to life on stage.

Throughout the performance, students enjoyed the beautiful music, talented acting, and excitement of watching the story unfold right before their eyes. From the songs and lively characters to the magic of Cinderella's story, the performance provided an engaging experience filled with entertainment and imagination. It was wonderful to see our students enjoying the music and connecting with the action on stage!

Attending a live theater performance is about so much more than simply watching a show. Experiences like this provide our students with opportunities to engage their senses, explore the performing arts, and participate in meaningful community activities. The music, dialogue, and live performances offered opportunities for students to experience storytelling in a new and exciting way.

At Philip J. Rock Center and School, learning and exploration don't stop when the school day ends! Our residential program continues to provide students with opportunities to experience their community, build independence, and enjoy recreational activities with their peers and staff. Outings like this are an important part of creating meaningful experiences beyond the classroom.

A special thank you to our PM shift staff for making this wonderful evening possible! Your dedication to providing our students with fun, engaging, and memorable experiences outside of the school day is truly appreciated.

Sometimes the best learning experiences happen outside the classroom, especially when pizza is involved! Our Rockhounds recently enjoyed a fun outing to a local pizza restaurant, where they had the opportunity to enjoy a delicious meal, spend time with staff, and practice important real-world skills.

While enjoying their pizza, students worked on appropriate restaurant etiquette, including making choices, practicing table manners, interacting with others, and learning what is expected when dining in the community. These everyday experiences provide valuable opportunities for students to build confidence and independence in a natural setting.

One of the best parts of the outing was simply enjoying time together! Students and staff shared conversations, laughter, and meaningful interactions using Total Communication. Whether through spoken language, sign language, gestures, assistive communication devices, or other forms of communication, students had opportunities to express themselves, share their preferences, and connect with those around them. Every student deserves to have a voice, and outings like these provide a wonderful opportunity to use communication skills in real-life situations.

But beyond the learning and practicing of skills, this outing was also about something just as important—being teenagers! Going out for pizza, hanging out, enjoying conversations, and spending time with others are experiences every teenager should have the opportunity to enjoy. Our students deserve those same opportunities to socialize, have fun, and simply be themselves.

At Philip J. Rock Center and School, we believe that building independence goes hand in hand with creating meaningful life experiences. Community outings like this remind us that learning doesn't always have to look like a traditional lesson. Sometimes it looks like sharing a pizza, laughing with friends, and enjoying a little time away from school.

Our students and PM residential staff enjoyed a wonderful evening outdoors with a trip to the local park! It was a great opportunity to get out into the community, enjoy some fresh air, and spend time together outside of the residential setting.

The evening began with a relaxing stroll through the park, giving students the opportunity to get some exercise while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Walking is a wonderful way to promote physical activity, encourage movement, and support overall health and wellness. It also provides opportunities for students to practice mobility skills, build independence, and enjoy time socializing with staff and peers.

After their walk, students had the opportunity to watch a friendly Park District baseball game! They enjoyed taking in the excitement of the game, watching the players, and experiencing the atmosphere of a community sporting event. It was a fun way to spend the evening while enjoying a favorite pastime!

While outings like these may seem simple, they provide meaningful opportunities for our students to participate in everyday community activities. Whether taking a walk, watching a baseball game, or simply enjoying time outdoors, these experiences help students develop confidence, strengthen social connections, and enjoy recreational opportunities just like their peers.

At Philip J. Rock Center and School, our residential program is committed to providing students with opportunities to explore their community, stay active, and enjoy meaningful experiences beyond the school day. Sometimes the best evenings are the simplest ones, filled with fresh air, good company, and a little baseball!