In an inspiring gesture of inclusion, Rhame Avenue School’s kindergarten playground now features a new “Say and Play” communication board, thanks to the efforts of teachers Alexis Freudenberg and Heather Bolanos. The board, a type of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tool, is designed to help nonverbal children and those with speech and language delays express themselves and participate fully in playground activities. With colorful images depicting common playground activities, the board allows children to point to pictures of the actions they’d like to join, breaking down communication barriers to foster a more inclusive play environment.

Communication boards like this one empower children with speech and language challenges to share in social experiences alongside their peers. Designed with inclusivity in mind, they enable children with varying communication abilities to indicate their choices, share interests, and express needs. Notably, this board includes a QR code that can be scanned to access a digital version on mobile devices. This feature extends the board’s utility beyond Rhame Avenue, allowing families to use the communication tool at other playgrounds that may not yet have such resources.

The unveiling event was a joyous occasion, attended by several kindergarten classes, including students both with and without language delays. School administrators and Principal Jack Bixhorn joined Ms. Freudenberg and Ms. Bolanos as they introduced the communication board to the young crowd. The teachers explained how to use the board, showing students how they could point to images representing various activities. The children eagerly took to the new tool, using it right away to indicate the games they wanted to play and express themselves in real-time.

The addition of the Say and Play board marks a meaningful step toward making Rhame Avenue’s playground an inclusive space for all children. By providing a simple yet powerful way for nonverbal students to connect with their peers, the board enriches playtime and encourages positive social interactions among students of all abilities.

Date Added: 10/30/2024

On Oct. 28, Rhame Avenue School students had a special assembly dedicated to Halloween safety. Officers from Precinct 4’s Problem-Oriented Policing (POP) unit stopped by to discuss how to stay safe while trick-or-treating. The officers engaged students in an interactive session, sharing valuable tips to ensure everyone has a fun and safe Halloween night.

The officers emphasized the importance of knowing what to do if children find themselves separated from their parents. “If you get separated, call 911, look for a police officer with a real badge—not someone in a costume,” they advised. “Another safe option is to find a grownup who has kids with them, who is likely a parent.”

They also reminded students to always stay on sidewalks, be mindful of moving cars, and look both ways before crossing the street. Wearing something reflective was encouraged for trick-or-treaters venturing out after dark to help drivers spot them more easily.

For additional safety, the officers advised children to wait until they’re home to open their candy, where parents can check each piece to make sure it's safe. They also encouraged kids to know their phone number, step back after ringing a doorbell to give the homeowner some space, and never go anywhere with a stranger.

The officers encouraged students to look out for one another, stay with friends, and alert a parent if they see anyone who looks lost or separated. The assembly provided a memorable and practical guide to staying safe while enjoying Halloween fun, reinforcing Rhame Avenue School’s commitment to student safety and community involvement.

Date Added: 10/29/2024