Although Spring had not yet sprung, the tour was exceptional! Lodging at the Red Lion Inn was indeed a treat, and we have to thank the programs and schools we visited for their hospitable and gracious gift.
Two other consultants joined us and visited Berkshire Hills Music Academy, with the new Director Gary Shaw. Impressed by everything that we saw and heard, included the historic building that houses 20 young adults with autism, Williams disease or physical ailments with intense interest in music, and the ‘Can Do Band’ which performs near and far. Guitar, keyboard, drums, piano, tambourine, horns, and vocal performers contribute to a very high quality experience. Length of stay varies and a transition house encourages the next step. Vocational skills, extended learning and life skills are stressed. Kristen Tillona, Admissions, deserves plaudits for the organization of such an amazing tour.
Next, we were hosted by the MacDuffie School in their new location( a former seminary) with a delightful catered lunch.All the Administration spoke with us, particularly Linda Keating, an alumna, who is Dir. of Admissions, the new Head, Brian Chatterley( formerly with Wilbraham and Munson), Anne Rivers, and Susan Clayton, who gave a superb tour of the unfinished renovations. Co-ed , the school of over 200, with 1/2 boarders, some Day,and PG, stress College Prep , ESL mostly international, and no LD. Although we saw not students, we ar excited that they will be close to 5 colleges and a vibrant community.
College Internship Program in Lee, with Mike McManmon (Founder) and Dan, his son Admissions at the Berkshire Center, the Head of all the programs, Heather Green , all met with us. We watched the Power Point presentation that Dan created and were intrigued by the program. LD/Asperger students with 80-135 IQ, as well as those with anxiety, depression and OCD are accepted . Each student has an adviser, and case manager who helps with weekly finances, as well as a fitness coach from Kripalu( world famous yoga center) Tutors are available, evening study hall, and C-step (career planning). Opportunities for culinary and other internships , sharing apartments in nice houses,(shared bathrooms and kitchens) community service ,skiing at nearby Jiminy Peak, are available. Other sites include Berkeley, Brevard,FL, Bloomington,IN, and Long Beach/Santa Monica, CA.Summer programs vary. One needs to be self-motivated and ready to invest in one’s future.
Last , we saw Eagleton School, (RTC) in Great Barrington, who suffered from a devastating tornado several years ago when 3 boys were killed. The mission is redefined with a focus on spectrum boys ages 9-22. It began in 1977 , with Bruce Bora, Head. Becky Mitchell, is the new Admissions , and Lloyd Johnston, a seasoned Head of REsidence.We heard from most of the Administration during an amazing luch prepared by the boys in the Culinary Department. A new faculty member, Brian is had of the horse program, with Icelandic horses, Kathy, Tessa and Maureen Prema are in the Clinical department. The garden, Harvest program, is a highlight, as well as the Family UNIFY program, when families return . all expenses paid 1 weekend each month, and NAPPI, non-aggressive positive input. School is in the Discovery Center, with a gym/ Activities include skiing , bowling, drumming, building model cars and trains, chess and other crafts. There is an independent transition house for 18-22 year old, and chickens along with a ropes course on the hill. Altogether, the students are fortunate to have this program.
We departed by visiting the Norman Rockwell Museum and Kripalu for a massage. Wow! What a trip!
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