Holiday cheer is in full swing here at STEP!

We took a break from our usual routine to play some "Reindeer Games," and the competition was fierce! Our learners participated in a balloon antler-making contest, and the results were absolutely hilarious (and impressive!).

There were balloons popping, lots of twisting, and even more laughter. It was the perfect way to get into the festive spirit and bond as a team.

4 months ago, Pleasanna Carter
Group of people with one person sitting with balloon antlers
Group of people with one person sitting with balloon antlers
Students explored movement and connection in a supportive, inclusive gym setting. From balancing on colorful stability balls to making friends with a visiting therapy dog, every moment was filled with joy. Whether engaging in active play or enjoying sensory-friendly activities, these students proved that fitness is for everyone.
4 months ago, Amy Buchler
A student sits on a therapy ball during gym
Students participating in adaptive physical education with therapy dog
A student during adaptive PE class

A huge thank you to Director Alana Anderson for hosting a wonderful Christmas gathering for our incredible staff! It was a joy to see the teams from PREP, STEP, and Project SEARCH come together to celebrate another great year.

There was plenty of socializing, laughter, and holiday spirit to go around. We are so grateful for the hard work this team does every day, and it was great to kick back and celebrate the season together.

Here’s to a happy holiday season!

4 months ago, Pleasanna Carter
Group of people mingling
Group of people sitting at table
Group of people sitting at a table
Group of people sitting
Group of people sitting. One person is standing
Group of people 3 standing 2 sitting at a table
Scooping up math skills with some ice cream counting fun! 🍦
4 months ago, Kelsey Mickus
Children gather around a table matching ice cream scoops and cones to number cards.
One of our Early Head Start little guys got a boost from Ms. Judy this morning so he could see the Christmas Tree 🎄
4 months ago, Merribeth Tognetti
Woman holds little boy.
The Career Development Department was blessed to have many of our fantastic board members and Superintendent join us at the ACTE Career Tech VISION Conference in Nashville! Fantastic Future Focused Learning Happening!!!!
4 months ago, Laura Saline
A group of people posing in front of a staircase.
This swing gives deep pressure and vestibular input— helping our learner reset, regulate, and build life long skills. The perfect mid-day break!
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
Young man in a classroom swing.
Young man holding a bucket with his name.
Shared Reading in action! 📖✨ An essential daily literacy routine where students and staff build comprehension, engagement, and joy together.
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
Student and assistant sitting with a book and a core board.

Naomi is getting it done at 2/42!

Check out PREP student Naomi taking charge of the new vacuum at 2/42! She is mastering her tasks and proving just how valuable Work-Based Learning is.

Big shoutout to the team at 2/42 for being such incredible supporters of LESA. We love seeing our students thrive in such a supportive environment. Keep up the great work, Naomi!

4 months ago, Pleasanna Carter
Student emptying the vacuum

Transportation is gearing up for the Holiday break. Kids are excited and counting down the days! We're grateful for our amazing families and the community support we receive this time of year!

4 months ago, Crystal Walker
woman holding hot chocolate near a fire
Behavior Coach, Shannon, shares a joyful moment with her student during a session, showcasing the positive connection that makes learning effective. The student is engaged, and both have some playful paint marks to show for their fun!
4 months ago, Amy Buchler
staff next to Bryson for a selfie
staff next to Bryson for a Selfie
staff next to Bryson for a selfie
Empowering educators! 💬🤝 Pathway SLPs share AAC best practices with classroom teams to grow skills, support communication, and uplift every learner.
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
Two teams working on a task on the table.
Four staff sitting at table smiling with candy bar in hands.
Eight staff sitting around a table talking.
Livingston Career Development went on a field trip yesterday to MS Ultrasonic to get their perspectives on the value of hosting student job shadows. Natasha and Chris shared some great insights!
4 months ago, Laura Saline
MS Ultrasonic welder parts
Natasha White from MS Ultrasonic
Chris from MS Ultrasonic
MS Ultrasonic Voltage Meter
This student uses his AAC to greet the food service personnel every day. We have built this into his routine and they both seem to favor their new relationship! This employee pauses to listen and support us while we are encouraging him to use his words. She has a warm, welcoming demeanor that screams belonging! We’re oh so grateful. 🥹
4 months ago, Megan Makowski
A young boy using a walker and a communication tablet interacts with a cafeteria worker in a doorway while a staff member assists him.
Brighton therapy dog (Martha) waits patiently in the special education office to go home after a long, "ruff" day at work.
4 months ago, Leslie Leemgraven
Brighton therapy dog relaxes after a long day at work,

It's Snack Pack Day!

Thank You to everyone that's supported this project. You are ALL greatly appreciated💫

4 months ago, Merribeth Tognetti
Room full of tables piled with snacks
People unloading their truck
Three people in front of a giant wall of Costco boxes
Flyer for our Snack Pack drive

A talented PREP entrepreneur shares her unique soap creations at our annual craft show.

Photo Courtesy of Monique Griffin

4 months ago, Dennette Kreutzkamp
Female standing in front of a table of crafts.
Big shout-out to PREP student Jason, who is absolutely taking charge at Pathway today! Keep up the great momentum, Jason!
4 months ago, Pleasanna Carter
man cleaning table
Man next to cleaning cart
Proud chefs today! 🍲🙌 Students cooked a meal and served it to family—building connection, life skills, and communication.
4 months ago, Jaime Oppenlander
Students, families, and staff sitting around a large table, sharing a meal.
Student with headphones on smiling and talking to an adult.
Spirit Week Pathway Holiday Edition.
4 months ago, Amy Buchler
holiday spirit wear schedule