- On July 25, 2007, the Children’s Program was awarded a three year renewed license from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. This three year license was awarded as part of a program that recognizes programs providing quality services to children in residential care.
- On June 12, 2008, Crystal Spring School held its graduation for our students who will be transitioning to adult programs. As with previous years’ graduations, the day consisted of commencement where the students received their certificate of completion and have plenty of photo opportunities, dinner for students and their families, and in the evening, our prom! Our 2008 graduates were Chantelle, Christina, Joshua, Shannon, Jeremy, Anamarie, and Benjamin.
- On March 26, 2008 Crystal Springs School held its second science fair. As with the first science fair, each classroom developed a topic and had hands-on demonstrations that students participated in. This year we tasted edible “DNA”; students demonstrated how rocks were formed; and we watched how plants absorbed water. Students used switches to activate voice output devices, to turn on fans, and to operate many other interactive devices. The anticipation is growing to see what experiments students will work on for the next science fair.
- IDDI's Crystal Springs School is committed to providing a school environment that promotes children’s health, well being, and ability to learn, by supporting healthy eating and physical activity. The School Wellness Committee is comprised of parents, teachers, food service professionals, and health care professionals who meet on a semi-annual basis to develop and review school nutrition and physical activity policies.
- During the course of the year, the Children’s Residential Program participates in several on-campus activities. We make great use of the play area, pool and gym. Our residents also enjoy taking in the scenery while on a leisurely stroll around campus, and watching movies on the big screen in our Children’s Center.
- Many ongoing social events and activities take place individually or in combination with other houses. Cookouts are a favorite activity in the summer months, and theme meals are very popular as well. The Children’s Program holds Valentine, Fourth of July, and Christmas dances, and friends and family are invited to participate in the festivities. We also have major holiday events: Santa visits each house on Christmas morning; Frosty visits the homes at the Holiday party in January; and on Easter, the Easter Bunny delivers baskets of small gifts to all the residents.
- The Children’s Residential Program holds its annual Halloween dance at the end of October. This event is a spectacular show that both residents and staff look forward to every year. Each house takes part in choosing a theme for the costumes, and all the residents and staff dress up according to the theme.
- The Recreation Department organizes many community trips to various locations, including Dunkin Donuts, the Boston Aquarium, and the Providence Bruins.
Check back on our site for more information in the upcoming months.