Blog

We have an exciting new program at TDS this year — CAAEL (Chicago Area Alternative Education League). Used throughout the school day, CAAEL is intended to motivate students to come to school, complete their assignments, and behave appropriately. Through this organization, students in Therapeutic Schools have an opportunity to participate in interscholastic sporting and other types of events throughout the year, such as: basketball, chess, bowling, a spelling bee, flag football, volleyball, soccer, softball and more.

Emily came to JVS Career & Employment looking for a part-time job that was flexible with her school schedule and located in her neighborhood. Her previous work experiences in an office and food service required support from a job coach. Through our customized youth employment program, we were able to identify prospective employers and design an individualized position that would allow for independence and success without needing a job coach.

Welcome to the April 2019 issue of Bulldog Bulletin where we share the endlessly wonderful things our students, teachers and staff do here everyday! 

Through play, children develop motor coordination, social skills, emotional regulation, as well as learn how to process the sensory input in their environment.  The occupational therapists at JCFS Chicago’s Integrated Pediatric Therapies and Therapeutic Day School make sure each child has fun at work!

“Next year, may we be free.”  - Passover Haggadah

The holiday of Passover, “the season of our liberation,” celebrates the departure of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt. This is a central theme of the Passover Seder, a festive meal replete with symbolism and song.

It’s Volunteer Week and we’re kicking off our TDS Tuesday post with a shout out to all those who’ve spent time giving back to our school community. If you are interested in learning how to support the JCFS TDS and volunteer, please contact Kathy Morris. 

Through advocacy, leadership development, fundraising, volunteerism, and service projects, the JCFS Associates Board  - a dedicated and enthusiastic group of young professionals who are passionate about promoting the work of JCFS Chicago - hopes to act as ambassadors, encouraging younger generations to become more involved with JCFS. “We believe in the importance of social service and giving back to the community. We are proud to become ambassadors for the next generation of JCFS leaders and are excited to share everything we have in store,” says co-chair Karly Worth.

JCFS TDS Transition Student Ania recently celebrated a very special milestone!  She voted for the very first time, receiving a round of applause from the workers at the polling place. Ania, like many of our students in the Transition Program, has been focused on increasing independence and life skills within school and the community at large. This program helps develop these skills so that upon graduation from school, she is more prepared to enter the workforce. 

Changing the clocks back or forward can disrupt a child's sleep cycle, which can affect the entire family. Sleep is especially important for children as it directly impacts mental and physical development. It is important for children of all ages to have consistent bedtimes and relaxing sleep routines.

Not a day goes by when we are not inundated with stories of shootings, accidents, senseless acts of violence or natural disasters. When these events happen, we might feel shock or sadness, yet we strive to protect ourselves by keeping the tragedies at arm’s length. But how do we handle an unexpected or sudden loss in our own lives?