Bellcate Brain Science students, inspired by their peer Dylan, decided to address the issue of socializing outside of school. Most Bellcate students have social therapeutic goals but the students say it is hard to get together for a wide range of reasons. Once per month, Bellcate gets a good turnout for “4 Square Night,” which is a family friendly social activity hosted and staffed by Bellcate School. The Brain Science students advocated to have a movie night that was semi-hosted and supported by the school but largely initiated by students with a greater level of independence. “This is honestly what every Director of a therapeutic school wants to hear,” stated Jesse Bell, Bellcate School Administrator. “Students developing a shared healthy interest and facilitating it themselves? It doesn’t get much better than that.” The class got right to work to develop a time, place and theme as well as a plan for transportation and communication. The students wanted just a couple of volunteer staff to join for support. And “Black Out-A night at the movies” was born. The Brain Science students did all of the thinking, planning and communicating. They decided on the movie Black Panther and created a cool theme of everyone wearing black to the event. Six students and three staff attended the social event with only two days’ notice. The crew met up at Essex Cinema at 6pm for the show. Everyone bought their own tickets and got snacks for the viewing. Students filed in together and sat independently from staff. “It is so cool seeing them enjoy a social night together without relying too much on our support,” said Josh Sinz, Bellcate Art Director.” “Can we do this every month?” asked Bev Spencer, Bellcate Program Instructor. The students jumped all over Bev’s idea and the second great idea was born…Bellcate Student’s Monthly Movie Night. The movie was a great success. The students had a really nice time and the reaction we got from parents was also very positive. “My son had a great time! I cannot remember the last time he went out with a group of friends socially.” –Bellcate Parent.
Featured Posts
Semester 2: Notes from the Operations Desk
Semester 2, during Covid, continues to challenge us at times but it has also brought opportunities for positive learning, growth and change. For example, during Covid we developed “Adventure Day.” Adventure Day is a full day of programming that is designed to access our natural and inspiring Vermont resources. Bellcate School has always been connected… Read more »
Bulldogs ’30 Nights of Fitness’
The Bellcate community is wrapping up its second version of “30 nights,” completing an intense workout series that brought laughs, tears of joy, hall of fame basketball players, a logger, the local news, a couple dentists, and a country music star. The fun began on Monday, January 4th. Aiden met Bellcate Athletic Director Jamie Moore… Read more »
WbcR Episode #22 – Hall of Fame
Here is our next installment of WbcR Episode #22 – “A Tribute to the 2020 Inductees of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame”. This is our 1st Bellcate Remote broadcast and it will air on WBTV 99.3 FM on Saturday 5/16/20 at 8pm. Our DJ’s Matt, Marcus, Joe, and Dylan worked really hard on… Read more »
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Testimonials
Bruce, Grandfather
“Bellcate is life-changing for its kids. It has improved our family living by learning how to handle difficult situations from time to time. The Wolf Pack family support discussions and problem solving benefit all family members, staff, and all associated parties. At Bellcate, you receive unconditional backing and support from whenver needed 24/7. I am… Read more »
Anna and Chip, Parents
“Bellcate School is an amazing place. The school’s executive director and team are some of the most accomplished and talented educators and support staff we have ever met. They are committed to understanding the complex needs of each student. They will individualize an educational plan that incorporates a range of classes, social and extracurricular experiences… Read more »
Gail, Parent
”When you walk in the door at Bellcate it is usually a beehive of activity. There are classes going on, meals being made, artwork and schoolwork being hung in the hallways, maybe gardening going on out front. There are kids of various ages and all levels of ability/disability busy with their school tasks. It may… Read more »
Kara, Parent
“Bellcate School is a unique and special school that is completely dedicated to all of the student’s individual needs in a holistic approach. They improve their student’s lives academically, mentally, emotionally and physically in a community enriched environment. The wonderful staff have diverse backgrounds which enhances the variety of learning experiences the students acquire. The… Read more »
Kelly, Parent
“Bellcate School is a safe place for your child and your family. A place for all of you to learn and become stronger. They will never judge you and they will always support you. Every kid should be able to go to a school like Bellcate. Bellcate School has meant more to our son and… Read more »