On the Road to Independence

On the Road to Independence

Huge congratulations to Zacharia on getting his learner’s permit!  This is such an exciting milestone, and we’re so proud of you for taking this big step toward independence. Wishing you safe and happy driving adventures ahead!

An Unforgettable Night of Inclusion & Hockey

An Unforgettable Night of Inclusion & Hockey

 

Special thanks to The Friendship Journey & Samantha Novick, for inviting us to Autism Acceptance Night with the Florida Panthers! It was an unforgettable evening filled with hockey, community, and inclusion. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to be part of such an inclusive and memorable event!

 

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Athletes Shine at Special Olympics

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Athletes Shine at Special Olympics

What an incredible day supporting our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students as they participated in the Special Olympics at their school. Our students gave it their all in the relay race, hurdles, and long jump and they absolutely crushed it! Their determination, spirit, and teamwork were on full display, and we couldn’t be prouder! They showed us all that with heart and perseverance, anything is possible. Way to go, team!                                   

Autism Acceptance in Action at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School

Autism Acceptance in Action at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School

This week, teachers and staff participated in a special presentation in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month at Hialeah-Miami Lakes Senior High School (HML). The event featured a fun and educational Kahoot quiz on Autism Acceptance, led by Yuri, a student and member of the Best Buddies Club. Winners walked away with gift cards donated by Panera Bread, Starbucks, and the Museum Discovery and Science! We were happy to provide the donated gift cards for our amazing teachers!

 

   

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Seniors Take on Grad Bash!

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Seniors Take on Grad Bash!

This past weekend, our Miami-Dade HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students had the opportunity to celebrate Grad Bash 2025 at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, an exclusive, after-hours event designed just for graduating high school seniors!
With support from our HDS Foundation B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Grant, seniors got to enjoy this incredible experience and make lasting memories with their classmates. From riding The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man to laughing, dancing, and making memories with friends, it was definitely a night they won’t forget!
We’re so proud of our seniors! Here’s to even more big adventures ahead for the Class of 2025!                                                                             

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S Students Learn Water Safety

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S Students Learn Water Safety

In celebration of National Water Safety Month in May, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students are embarking on a two-week program at the Y.M.C.A. to acquire fundamental water safety knowledge. This includes essential skills like floating, treading water, and holding their...

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Practice Life Skills

HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Students Practice Life Skills

Leading up to Mother's Day, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. teachers designed the lesson plans to teach their students valuable life skills and prepare them to surprise their mothers with thoughtful presents. The lesson involved buying a card, a box of chocolates, and a plant...

A Canvas Without Limits

A Canvas Without Limits

For this week’s Career Series, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students were delighted to have the opportunity to connect with Digital Artist Mike Spring via Zoom. Given the students' keen interest in pursuing Digital Art as a career path, Liz Falk, HDS Foundation Program...

Never Stop Learning because Life never Stops Teaching

Never Stop Learning because Life never Stops Teaching

The HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students headed out on a Community-Based Instruction (CBI) field trip to one of their favorite places, Mission BBQ. They enjoyed a delicious lunch with their teachers and peers.   Students practiced their independence by ordering and paying for...

Teachers & Mentors Appreciation Week

Teachers & Mentors Appreciation Week

As part of the 2023 Teacher & Mentor Appreciation Week, the HDS Foundation team is honoring the dedication of our HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. and College Mentors Program teachers and mentors, who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to ensure the success of our...

Teachers & Mentors Appreciation Week

Celebrating Student Achievements

​Imagine…Believe…Achieve! Congratulations to all of the students for their accomplishments this year. We are so proud of you! April is Autism Acceptance Month. Be Aware. Be Kind. Be Understanding.  We would like to celebrate the following students for their...