Unique learners making the most of unique setting

By by DENISE MARTIN- | Comments: 0 | Leave a comment

Should you go into Brink’s Market in Chisago City on a Wednesday and encounter youngsters shopping, stay calm. They are not playing hooky, and skipping school. The special education department at Chisago Lakes School District has developed a hands-on learning opportunity partnering with the grocery store that appears to be a win-win for all, especially the kids.

Special needs can range from being on the spectrum for autism to coping with physical infirmity. The mom of one of the students tells the Press in an email exchange that her autistic son’s future skills look different from what his peers may need, and the way he receives his education is being customized to attain those. She continued to state this program is a big positive. “My son is blessed to have these innovative educators be guiding him in his non-traditional educational journey.”

Melissa Lideen was referring to Maria Goff, for one.

Goff, special education teacher and case manager, says the lightbulb moment came this year, Having organized life skills lessons in the Chisago Lakes program for eight years, she thought why not incorporate the life-skills cooking section of the special ed lessons and have the students be responsible for the ingredients for the week’s recipe.
The concept was embraced by Brink’s and just over the first months this year, Goff says she notices the students gaining comfort in social situations and communicating. They are learning the store layout and accomplishing the shopping quicker and with confidence...all important parts of functioning as adults. Even their math has improved, Goff added.
The grocery trips are happening with the help of four paraprofessionals and co-instructor Shari Mansfield, Goff added.

Parent Lideen made note that Brink’s staff have been great at making sure the kids are involved in checkout and participating in every step.

She said, “They and their employees go above and beyond to make each visit a positive experience. Mrs. Goff and Mrs. Mansfield and Chisago Lakes Middle School should be commended for helping our most vulnerable learn and grow.”