This month’s Guest Blogger is East Henrietta Campus Principal Courtney Liggett. A 16-year veteran, Courtney started her Cariola career as an extended school year Special Education Teacher. She has previously worked as a Behavior Analyst, and Behavior Therapist Supervisor. Courtney has a B.S. in Special Education, a M.S. in Psychology, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, a Licensed Behavior Analyst and holds a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Administration
As the school year begins again this September, we’re filled with excitement and anticipation here at Mary Cariola Center. After some rest, relaxation and of course a lot of classroom preparation, we are ready to welcome our students back to school! Every year, the first day of school feels like a reunion, not only for students but for teachers, staff, and families as well.
While we celebrate the beginning of another school year, we also recognize that for many families, this time can be filled with a mix of emotions. Your child may be starting school for the very first time, have a new teacher, a different bus route or driver, or be in a group of new students. Sending your child back to school can be nerve-racking and sometimes overwhelming for our families. Whether it’s the usual concerns about how they will adjust to the new school year or heightened anxieties about their health and well-being, we know that this transition can be challenging. Rest assured, at Mary Cariola, we understand these feelings deeply and we are here to support you through the transitions of September, and the months to come.
Our approach at Mary Cariola Center is rooted in the belief that every child deserves individualized care, attention, and a learning environment that fosters their unique abilities. We value our community and the resources we are able to share with our families. Our interdisciplinary teams and administrators have worked hard to prepare for these transitions and will ensure that every child and their family feels safe and supported. We know how much trust it takes to send your child off to school, and we’re honored that you entrust us with that responsibility. It’s a responsibility we don’t take lightly, and we’re prepared to do everything we can to create an environment where your child can grow and succeed. We are not just a school; we’re a community.
Transitions can be hard for any child, but at Mary Cariola, over the past 75 years we have learned to anticipate what our students need during a time of change. We plan ahead and are intentional in our teaching about transitions and change in general. Our dedicated staff and teachers are experts in providing structure and support for children with diverse needs. We work closely with each family to understand the individual concerns, needs, and goals for their child, so we can create an environment that feels comfortable and familiar from the very first day back.
We’re also aware that, for many parents and guardians, the return to school means letting go, at least for a few hours a day. For some families, it is a welcome deep breath knowing their children are safe in our care. For other families, it can be tough to step back, especially after spending more time together during the summer. But remember, you’re not alone. Here at Mary Cariola, we’ve got it! And we’ll keep you informed every step of the way, so you feel connected to their progress and experience.
Our classrooms are currently buzzing with energy and creativity, our therapy sessions are being prepared to meet each student where they are, and our lesson plans are filled with engaging activities. We’re so excited to see what this school year will bring. New milestones, new friendships, new skills…we are ready!
So, as we embark on this new academic year, please know that we are here not just for your children but for you as well. We’re partners in this journey, and we’re committed to making sure that the return to school is a positive experience for your family. Your child’s success, well-being and happiness are our top priorities, and we will continue to provide the exceptional care and education that you’ve come to expect from Mary Cariola Center.
Let’s embrace the new school year with confidence, joy, and excitement. Together, we’ve got this! Here’s to a wonderful year ahead.
