By the way--we'd love your feedback! Please see below to take our Family Survey.

Our own Camille Myles was a finalist in the Educator in Excellence awards. Way to go!

For March, the focus is on Ouch, That Hurts! We talk about the different types of accidents that can occur in everyday life and how best to respond. We also cover emergencies and calling 9-1-1. Another important component is the First Aid kit and what should be included. These are all things that hopefully won't be needed, but should certainly be part of their toolboxes.

Your TRAILBLAZER special assignment this month: Find out if you have a First Aid kit at home--if you don't, start preparing one with your family.

Our Fairmont site is where ATP began. Students work in classes, sometimes collaborating with other classes, to learn independent life skills through hands-on experiences and ATP curriculum (see above.) Topics include cooking, daily living, self-advocacy, functional academics in language and math, community mobility, and vocational training. Classes work at their own pace to cover these important topics and more to assist students in reaching their goals towards independence and to prepare them for an adult day program after turning 22.

ATP @ FCC site is an extension of the Fairmont site, but in their own classroom at FCC where instructors cover a variety of topics. The classes stay together as a group and participate in vocational training, Special Olympics, and community-based instruction in addition to their academic blocks that use ATP curriculum. They also take classes in the DSPS program.

The ATP @ FAS site is located at the Caesar Chavez Adult School where they participate in certification programs under the supervision of an ATP teacher and staff. The class and staff move together throughout the campus taking classes in the certificate programs (food service, computers, and custodial) that will help them reach their vocational goals. In addition, ATP FAS uses ATP curriculum, receives vocational training, and participates in Special Olympics and community-based instruction.

Community Vocational Services (CVS) came to present at our Fairmont site. This gives day programs the opportunity to show us potential future clients what they have to offer. CVS was very engaging as they discussed skill development, assistance in preparing for a driver's license written test, and job support. Students who graduate from ATP have to know what their choices are so they can make informed decisions with their families about the rest of their adult lives. Ask your teacher more about what CVS provides for our community's best adults!

The question last month asked would you rather fly like a bird or swim like a fish? Overwhelmingly, 75% said fly like a bird. I guess they really do flock together!

Vocational training continues at ATP. This year, we are not working through the Workability Program, but through the Department of Rehabilitation. Unfortunately, that means the rules change for paid work. As we get more information, your teacher will relay it as quickly as they receive it regarding the new system. For now, students are trained on the job as staff supports them in team building, following directions, learning social norms working with a manager, and many more skills that wouldn't be gained without hands-on practice.

Try these student-tested recipes at home, straight from the ATP curriculum to your kitchen, and see what your student can do! This month's menu features

Sloppy Joes,

Baked Pita Chips,

and

Apple Crisp!

Click on the dish names below to get a copy of the recipe.

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Our Fairmont site includes 2 stocked kitchens, each with a microwave, oven, and stove. There students learn the basics of cooking, kitchen safety, hygiene, and manners at the table.

Whether it's mobility training on how to access the community, learning social norms in public spaces, or practicing self-advocacy, students learn best when they put classroom lessons to the test!

Email: derrick.flake@fresnounified.org
Website: fresnounified.org
Location: 3132 East Fairmont Avenue, Fresno, CA, USA
Phone: 559-248-7150