Irwin Intermediate School Hosts Holiday Events Focused on STEM and Literacy
Special education staff at Irwin Intermediate School collaborated this holiday season to deliver two engaging events that integrated science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with literacy, ensuring every student could actively participate and build key skills.
The "Friendsgiving Celebration" on Nov. 21, 2025, challenged students to design and build carriers—using everyday school supplies—to transport "turkeys" to a festive dinner table. Participants tested and adjusted their designs, with occupational therapist Dr. Anne Lee and special education aide Zayvier Willis providing hands-on support.
The "Christmas Stocking Challenge" on Dec. 18, 2025, tasked teams with creating large stockings (capable of holding 15 items) from construction paper and only masking and clear tape—no glue or scissors allowed. Speech-language pathologists Sandra Collins and John Fleming, along with LIMM teacher Claire Connors, led problem-solving discussions, while LIMS teacher Wendy Gagnon and special education aide Monique Gaines worked directly with students. Dr. Anne Lee celebrated successes with high-fives.
Both events emphasized teamwork, problem-solving, communication and social-emotional growth, with activities fully adapted for various learners, including those receiving special education services. Students also practiced activities of daily living—such as preparing snacks with help from educational aide Lisa Priest—and concluded with holiday-themed story time led by educators like Dr. Anderson.
The events were spearheaded by Wendy Gagnon, a Learning Impaired Mild to Severe (LIMS) teacher, and Claire Connors, a Learning Impaired Mild to Moderate (LIMM) teacher. Dr. Anne Lee contributed fine-motor expertise, while other specialists added language strategies and differentiated instruction.
Students shared ideas, laughed together and learned cooperatively in a fun setting.
These initiatives reflect DoDEA's commitment to the Blueprint for Continuous Improvement by advancing Student Excellence through personalized, multi-tiered supports that foster academic growth, well-being and resilience; School Excellence via strong, collaborative classroom environments; and Talent Excellence by empowering educators to innovate and grow through cross-team partnerships.
