On Wednesday, June 15, Stepping Stones School gathered for outdoor moving-up ceremonies for all three classes of students. Families gathered on the decorated front lawn of the school during designated one-hour ceremonies for Preschool, Transitional Kindergarten, and Primary classes. Each student received a certificate to mark the successful completion of a school year full of educational milestones, exploration, and fun, as proud loved ones, teachers, and staff looked on. It was a beautiful day with many smiling faces. Principal Sue Brand thanked families for entrusting the school with their children, whom she said bring joy to the staff every day.

The Arc of Essex County congratulates all of the Stepping Stones students on a wonderful school year, and Stepping Stones staff looks forward to welcoming families back for the Extended School Year summer season, which begins on July 5.

June 15 also marked Peggy Harrop’s last day at Stepping Stones as she retired after more than 20 years working in different roles at the school, including as a part-time special education teacher. “She always went wherever she was needed with a smile on her face, and did the best job,” Brand said. “She is just a really genuine person, and we’re going to miss her.”

The Arc of Essex County’s Stepping Stones School is a Department of Education-approved private school for students with disabilities serving children ages 3-10.  Located in Roseland, 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 tour and assistance with an out-of-district placement, contact Sue Brand, Director of Early Childhood and Education at (862) 210-8781 or sbrand@arcessex.org.