October was a busy and exciting month at The Arc of Essex County’s Stepping Stones School, with special outings, visits, celebrations, and plenty of opportunities for students to learn and have fun together.

The month kicked off on October 5 with a trip to Turtle Back Zoo for the annual Elks Friendship Festival. Students enjoyed a day outside the classroom, exploring the zoo and taking part in a special community event.

The following day, the Fairfield Fire Department paid a visit to Stepping Stones for a fun and educational fire safety presentation. Firefighters McLoughlin and Foti taught students and staff about different ways they can be proactive about fire safety, including making an escape plan with their families, and also showed them what a firefighter would look like in an emergency, reminding them not to be scared. They also gave the children an opportunity to get an up-close look at a real fire truck. We are grateful to the Fairfield Fire Department for taking the time to share this important information and create such a memorable experience for our students.

On October 23, students and staff came together for a special Team Time in recognition of Down Syndrome Awareness Month. Students participated in a fun blue and yellow obstacle course, cheering each other on as they each went through the stations.

The month wrapped up with a Halloween celebration on October 30, featuring in indoor twist on the traditional “trunk or treat.” Instead of decorating car trunks, students’ families and Arc staff decorated tables throughout the school’s all-purpose room, transforming the space into a festive “table or treat” experience. Parents and staff members built creative displays and costumed students made their way from table to table, collecting treats and enjoying the Halloween fun.

The Arc of Essex County’s Stepping Stones School is a Department of Education approved private school for students with disabilities.  Located in Fairfield, NJ, the school is designed to meet the developmental and educational needs of children with cognitive impairments such as Down syndrome and other students with similar educational and developmental needs.  For more information, or to request a virtual tour and assistance with an out-of-district placement, contact Robin Moses, Director of Early Childhood and Education at (862) 210-8781 or rmoses@arcessex.org.