Every year, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students eagerly anticipate their final Community-Based Instruction field trip, where they enjoy a delicious lunch at Japan Inn. Over the last two weeks, both HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. classes had the opportunity to enjoy lunch celebrating the end of year at Japan Inn.  

The highlight of their lunch is undoubtedly securing front-row seats at the hibachi table, where they witness the culinary spectacle performed by skilled chefs. With onions, the chef crafts a smoking volcano while forming a “beating” heart using rice, eliciting enthusiastic reactions from the students. Many students even captured the chef’s captivating cooking show on video to share with their families upon returning home. 

The students each chose their meal from the hibachi menu, which featured delicious options like chicken, steak, or shrimp, accompanied by rice and fresh vegetables.  As they enjoyed their meals, the students socialized and spent time with their friends. During the meal, Kaitlyn asked about the minimum age requirement for employment at Japan Inn. Upon learning that applicants must be at least 16 years old, Kaitlyn expressed her interest in completing a summer job application. 

Once everyone had finished their meals, our HDS Program Managers, Liz Falk, and Meagan Bouscher, pleasantly surprised each student with a special basket of treats and a generous $25 Gift Certificate from the HDS Foundation. We take immense pride in the accomplishments of the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students throughout the year. Many students successfully obtained driver’s permits and licenses, while others secured employment at Publix. Furthermore, we are thrilled to announce that five students will graduate this year, marking a significant milestone in their educational journey. 

As we eagerly anticipate the 2023-2024 school year, we extend our warmest wishes for a safe and joyful summer to all our students, teachers, and families. 

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 breath underwater. In collaboration with the local Y.M.C.A., the public schools have joined forces to raise awareness about the risks of unintentional drowning incidents and provide swimming lessons for all students.

Throughout the water safety program, students will learn basic water safety techniques and develop social skills related to aquatic environments. These encompass respecting personal space in the pool, refraining from splashing others, walking cautiously near the pool area, and adhering to appropriate conduct in the locker rooms while changing out of their bathing suits.

We are very proud of the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students as they continue their daily practice of water safety!

Eric, a former HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. student, came to share his post-secondary journey with the class. Eric’s decision to defer his graduation and enroll with ARC Broward School of Higher Education has proven to be an excellent experience. Through this program, Eric has not only grown socially but has also found meaningful employment. His visit to the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. class brought valuable insights and encouragement to the students, showcasing the possibilities that lie ahead. 

ARC Broward’s School of Higher Education offers a comprehensive program designed to empower individuals with developmental disabilities. Eric highlighted the Community-Based Instruction field trips as a key aspect of the program, enabling participants to receive valuable job training with the support of dedicated job coaches. These trips expose students to various workplaces, equipping them with the skills necessary for success in the job market. 

Eric emphasized the many opportunities provided by ARC Broward. Participants benefit from exposure to job fairs, mock interviews, self-advocacy training, workplace etiquette, water safety classes, and engaging social outings. This holistic approach prepares individuals to thrive in a professional environment while also fostering personal growth and self-confidence. 

Currently employed at Burger King, Eric shared the pros and cons of working at a fast-food restaurant. One of the main challenges he faced was navigating the intricacies of the cash register, particularly locating certain items like kids’ meals and ice bags. However, with the support of his colleagues and manager, Eric persevered and learned to navigate the register effectively. His dedication and resilience are a testament to the transformative power of ARC Broward’s program. 

Eric spoke about the most rewarding aspect of his job at Burger King: receiving a paycheck. The financial independence he has gained through employment enables him to meet his needs and allows him to indulge in purchasing his favorite items. Eric’s excitement resonated with the students, serving as a reminder of the possibilities that await them beyond their time at the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. Program. 

Kaitlyn, one of the students in the class, took a moment to express her admiration for Eric’s public speaking skills and encouraged him to be proud of his accomplishments. Her heartfelt words reflected the impact Eric’s visit had on the students, motivating them to believe in their own potential and the possibilities that lie ahead. 

The students expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Eric for taking the time to share his post-secondary experiences. His visit served as a beacon of hope, proving that with dedication, perseverance, and the support of programs like HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. and ARC Broward, they, too, can embark on successful post-secondary journeys. 

Today, the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. students enjoyed attending a presentation by Robert Diaz, the Senior Director of the Title III HIS STEM ACCESS Project Grant at Broward College. During the session, Robert introduced the students to the diverse range of programs, degrees, and classes in Immersive Technology offered at Broward College. 

Robert brought two virtual reality headsets for the students to experience to enhance their understanding. The first was the familiar Oculus VR headgear, while the second was the Microsoft Halo Lens2. The students were captivated by the immersive experiences offered by the Halo Lens2, which enabled them to explore a whole new realm. 

Robert also shared with the students about the widespread applications of Virtual Reality in various industries, such as medicine, construction, and energy management, including handling radioactive waste. He emphasized that these VR Headgear were no longer solely regarded as gaming devices but as valuable tools employed in different fields to create informative content that greatly benefitted those industries. 

Each student had the opportunity to use both the Oculus and the Microsoft Halo Lens2. They collaborated and supported one another whenever someone faced challenges. Ryan, for instance, assisted Vincent in maneuvering a virtual plane using the Halo Lens2. Many students expressed keen interest in this technology and engaged Robert in further discussions regarding the Immersive Technology Program at Broward College. In response, Nicolas inquired about the program’s requirements since he was interested in pursuing this after high school graduation. 

Robert gladly shared with the students that Broward College is an Open Access College, meaning applicants are not required to take the SAT examination. This information heightened the excitement among the students, who eagerly anticipated learning more about the program at Broward College. In the coming year, the teachers plan to arrange a half-day field trip to provide the students with a more immersive experience at the college. 

A heartfelt thank you to Robert for graciously sharing the information and the equipment with the students. His visit has undoubtedly sparked curiosity and enthusiasm within the HDS B.R.I.D.G.E.S. community.