The Coffee Bean

Harszang Alston is currently a 2nd grade student who has been attending the NEIU 19 Learning Campus since Kindergarten. Harszang is a funny, intelligent, and athletic student. He has been excelling by working hard and fully participating in all areas of school! Harszang's progress in the last few months stands out and has been noticed by everyone in the school! He also particiaptes in multiple extracurricular activities such as football, basketball, and baseball. Harszang said that he needs to work hard now so that when he grows up, he can fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer. He loves and cares about his family deeply and enjoys spending time with them. Harszang has been positively contributing to the classroom and setting an excellent example as a mentor to his peers. He plans to return to Riverside School District at the end of 2024. We are all so proud of the person he has become, and we wish him the best of luck in all that he does in the future!

SOAR- Students On-Campus Achieving Results

Teacher: Regina Fidiam

Paraprofessional: Janice McDonald

Substitute Job Coach: Margaret "Peg" Trently

STRIVE- Student Training to Reach Independence and Vocational Training

Teacher- Morgan Bialy

Paraprofessionals: Marlene Torch and Ruth Tarby

AUTO SHOP

Teacher: Phil Vullo

Paraprofessional: Lynn Kondash

On Tuesday November 5th 2024, Colleen Penzone and Molly Weber spent the day performing child find activities. The duo visited health clinics in Lackawanna County to talk with providers about making referrals to Early Intervention. This activity was in collaboration with the Lackawanna County Interagency Coordinating Council (LICC). Early Intervention flyers were provided to all clinics with an easy-to-use QR code for making referrals.

On Friday, November 1, 2024, Eliza Vagni, Kelly Dickey, and Erin Pencek were invited to tour the Scranton School for the Deaf. This visit strengthened our partnership between our organizations, and we look forward to continuing our support for the school's needs.

On November 5 and 6, 2024, Erin Pencek, in partnership with Jude Villano from the Lackawanna Susquehanna Office of Drug and Alcohol Programs, led a comprehensive SAP training at NEIU 19. This session certified 39 attendees from our region and neighboring Intermediate Units to participate in SAP teams at both elementary and secondary levels. The training equips new SAP members to recognize behaviors that may hinder academic success and apply appropriate supports, helping to create positive and supportive school environments.

Lexi Konsur- Grushinski and Stephanie Williams participated in the NAAEE (North American Association of Environmental Educators) conference in Pittsburgh. At the conference they connected with Environmental Educators and learned new ways to offer the EL&S part of the STEELS for all the students and community members we serve. They also met with the PA ELIT Hub leaders for an in-person meeting, as Lexie and Stephanie lead the Northeast hub of PA. Shown are photos of one of the lessons that can be used in our IU footprint.

Holy Cross High School held a career fair on November 13, 2024. NEIU 19 was represented by Kelly Dickey, Director of Special Education. Pennsylvania Department of Education materials from the Attract, Prepare, and Retain initiative were shared with students who were interested in learning more about careers working with individuals with disabilities.

Over 1700 people attended this event from across the state, along with several of our region's schools that were highlighted for their efforts in implementing PBIS within their buildings. The event took place at The Hershey Lodge, Hershey, PA on November 13th-15th. NEIU employees Dr. Colleen Penzone, Christopher Olson, and Carolyn Bryan all gave oral presentations. Dr. Penzone presented "Practices That One Head Start Program Uses to Minimize Suspensions and Expulsions," which highlighted the policies and practices that Head Start program employees use to support and include students with challenging behaviors. Chris and Carolyn presented "A Meaningful Minute: Mindfulness Strategies Across the MTSS Triangle." They presented the effectiveness of bringing mindfulness into the classroom and school setting with activities and resources that could be implemented immediately, addressing the whole child across multiple tiers.

Dates for The Mindfulness Workshop with Phil Sallavanti:

-January 16th, 2025- Thursday, 6-7pm

-March 13th, 2025- Thursday, 6-7pm

-May 15th, 2025- Thursday, 6-7pm

Classes are held at the Administration Building, Archbald and are open to all NEIU employees.

The new NEIU 19 apparel store is open for business. Holiday apparel is now available. Many more items will be added in the upcoming weeks. Any items ordered can be picked up at the Administration Building or delivered to your building.

Happy Shopping!!

Here's the link for the store: https://LineStDesigns.chipply.com/neiu19

Dear NEIU 19 Team,

As Thanksgiving approaches, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for each of you. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering perseverance in serving our students and our districts inspire me daily. Your work is a testament to the love and care you pour into everything you do, creating opportunities for our students and districts to thrive and grow.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives and to give thanks for the people who make it all worthwhile. It’s a season for cherishing family, loved ones, and the friendships that enrich our days. As you celebrate this holiday, I hope you find moments of joy, peace, and connection with those who matter most.

You’ve worked tirelessly this year to ensure that our students and school communities continue to succeed, and you deserve this time to rest and recharge. Enjoy the holiday, and may it bring you all the warmth and happiness you so richly deserve.

Thank you for all you do. You are the heart of NEIU 19, and I am truly thankful for each of you.

Wishing you a happy and restful Thanksgiving!

Warm regards,

Kathy

MISSION : The NEIU is an educational agency that supports the diverse needs of all learners by collaborating with families, educators and community partners to provide innovative leadership, programs and services.

VISION: NEIU—the leader in advancing education and community partnerships