Lake Drive's “Walk-a-Thon”
“Feet of all sizes in shoes of every style walking in unison on a crisp October day”

On October 29, 2007, the students, families and staff of the Lake Drive School in Mountain Lakes, NJ held a walk-a-thon with the theme of “Building a Better Me”. Sporting buttons with the theme and led on by a cheer created for the event, the students walked, skipped and hopped along the Boulevard, the town's main thoroughfare. The event was the brainchild of the school's Character Education Committee. Comprised of psychologists and clinical social workers, the committee's focus is to raise the consciousness of the students and staff in continuing the program's practice of supporting the social-emotional development of the students. The “Building a Better Me” theme stresses the importance of working together, of each student bringing his/her positive qualities to the school, resulting in an environment that is friendly, kind, safe and respectful. More info and pictures

Community Service: Hands of Peace

As part of our school's focus on character education, the 8th grade students from the Lake Drive Program at Briarcliff Middle School have been involved in a year of community service while gaining insights into vulnerable populations and situations. They have named the project “Hands Of Peace”. Their first venture was the Community soup Kitchen (CSK) in Morristown. Divided into two groups, the 8th graders spent November 11th and December 10th, respectively, assisting in, preparing for, and serving the midday meal. They prepared for the visit by having a series of discussions regarding homelessness, unemployment and the other social realities that might bring a person to a soup kitchen. The students also collected key items for the CSK and donated these for the kitchen's guests during the holidays. The students have come to know that no act is commonplace when it is intended to bring comfort, hope and tenderness. It is a lesson to be practiced for a lifetime.

Red Grammer's Visit to the Lake Drive School

The Lake Drive Program had the pleasure of presenting Red Grammer for two shows on February 4, 2008. With songs that provide messages of friendship, camaraderie and hope, Red enthralled the student body, especially with his opening song and his spontaneous use of sign. Amid waving hands and applause, his interactive performances and use of audience participation delighted children and adults alike. Accompanying Red on stage were interpreters, teachers and related services staff; their sign language brought Red's words to life for all to understand and enjoy. More info and photos