BIST Program Attracts Impressive Numbers at Training, Reflecting Overall Program Growth

First introduced to schools in 1989, the BIST program continues to grow rapidly in all areas, including the number of attendees at BIST trainings.

In late July, the BIST program held a week-long Basic BIST training at The Pavilion at John Knox Village in Kansas City, Missouri. Approximately 850 educators and administrators joined the training in person; 250 joined virtually.

The goals of the training were to help school-based professionals develop an understanding of the psycho-educational philosophy of the BIST model, learn the skills and language to problem-solve with challenging students and develop effective communication skills with parents and other staff members.

“People walk away from the training with more than just ideas,” said Judith Soltys, BIST Manager and Consultant. “They walk away feeling like they have things they can put in place immediately. They walk away with a greater sense of community and how they can support each other.”

BIST is also increasing its presence in school districts – and homes – across the country. As of August 2023, BIST consultants are collaborating with school staff in 271 schools in 51 school districts across nine states.

“Our work has evolved beyond schools and into the community,” said Judith, referring to the increase of in-home services for parents. “This type of comprehensive care is ideal because when parents are supported and have the same language, everyone is working towards the same goal, and the kids can have the wrap-around support that they need.”

Celebrating New and Familiar Faces in Leadership at the Day Treatment Schools

This is the 41st school year at Cornerstones of Care for Pam Sanders, Director of Education at the Gillis Campus Day Treatment School, an impressive milestone rarely reached by those in school leadership. Before stepping into her current role twelve years ago, Pam was a campus trainer and then Director of Recreational Services for the Gillis Center.

Over the summer, Pam and several Gillis School team members and students attended Rotary Youth Camp, a camp specifically designed for children and young adults with special needs or other physical, mental, or emotional challenges.

“It was our first time back since COVID, and it was educational, positive, and fun,” said Pam. “We went fishing and swimming and participated in nature crafts, archery, tie-dye, and a nature walk. It was an excellent camp experience and enjoyed by all who attended.”

At the start of the school year, Pam likes to focus on building relationships and community within each classroom. She focuses on creating routines for students and team members, building expectations, and practicing the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) matrix to give the school a solid foundation for addressing behavioral challenges throughout the school year.

A few miles away, Jessica Gagewanamaker is a few months into her new role as Director of Education at the Ozanam Campus Day Treatment School. While she may be new to Cornerstones of Care, Jessica brings over two decades of diverse experience in education, most prominently in special education leadership.

“I have spent my entire career working with struggling youth in some way,” said Jessica. “Whether it’s discipline, trying to find accommodations for a struggling student, or working with parents who are very invested and involved in the school, I think having that background in special education makes for having more successful leadership.”

Her impressive resume includes her most recent job as Director of Special Education at Hogan Preparatory Academy.

Jessica is also a mom of three and has lived experience raising a child with unique behavioral and academic needs – much like the students in attendance at the Ozanam School.

“It’s a passion of mine to help that population find their own strengths and be successful.”

The Ozanam Campus Day Treatment School has made significant progress in addressing challenging behaviors in recent years and hopes to build on this growth in the 2023-24 school year with a focus on academics.

Build Trybe Opens the Doors to New Creative Learning Space

Visitors to the Ozanam Campus may notice a bright red Kansas City Southern caboose along the main drive – a renovation project recently completed by the Build Trybe program.

Thanks to a grant from The Richard and Charlotte Orear Charitable Foundation and two other family foundations that wish to remain anonymous, the train car has been transformed into a new multipurpose center for vocational education for Build Trybe.

Build Trybe apprentices and instructors were actively involved with the design and construction of the train car, which includes computers, a printer, and a meeting area. The space’s unique and engaging environment will foster powerful learning experiences, encouraging our youth to envision big ideas and explore new concepts.

“This project was driven by people with the heart and the vision to see it through,” said Merideth Rose, President & CEO, at the train car ribbon cutting. “It’s a symbol of the heartbeat and the love that goes into our work.”

It is also one of several projects that highlights the vibrant growth of the Build Trybe program. The program recently received a $50,000 Farm-to-School grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide education and support through its Seed to Plate program, which teaches youth about agriculture, healthy eating, and the culinary arts.