05/21/2026
As we wrap up the school year, we wanted to share a summary of the “Strategies of the Month” that were highlighted throughout the year. These strategies focused on practical, neurodiversity-affirming approaches to supporting student regulation, communication, behavior, and connection across school settings.
We are also including a list of possible fun summer activity ideas (relatively local) that may be helpful as families are planning their summers (and something school teams can keep in mind for field trips next year!). Many of these activities either already include sensory-friendly elements or can be easily adapted to support a variety of sensory and regulation needs so that more students can meaningfully participate.
Thank you for all of the thoughtful ways you have supported students and one another throughout this year. We hope these resources provide encouragement, reflection, and practical ideas as we finish the year strong.
Wishing everyone a smooth and successful end to the school year!
Your GIRESD ASD Support Team,
Kallei Mapes-Hahn, Leah VanOrman, Jennie Sumner, Melissa Bevens
Strategies of the Month: Year-at-a-Glance Summary
Throughout the year, our “Strategies of the Month” focused on practical, compassionate, and neurodiversity-affirming ways to support student regulation, communication, connection, and behavior across school environments. Together, these strategies emphasized understanding the why behind behavior while building supportive systems that help students feel safe, capable, and successful.
Overall Themes Across the Year
Across all strategies, several consistent themes emerged:
Behavior is communication.
Regulation and connection come before correction.
Predictability and preparation support success.
Student dignity and autonomy matter.
Relationships are foundational to learning and behavior support.
Small proactive supports can make a significant impact.
We thank everyone that gave us feedback about the strategy of the month emails and for all the hard work you pour into students all year - we hope that these strategies were helpful and look forward to coming back with more in the fall!
