On Friday, April 4, 2025, the F. Donald Myers Education Center in Saratoga Springs, NY, was filled with smiles, excitement, and an overwhelming sense of community as WSWHE BOCES celebrated Autism Awareness Month with their second annual BEARS Bonanza. This event, designed to honor the remarkable BEARS students, was a huge hit, offering a day full of fun, learning and togetherness.
The BEARS Bonanza 2025 brought together students from multiple BEARS classrooms in a celebration of diversity, creativity, and inclusivity. Students participated in eight exciting activities that were not only fun but also designed to engage their senses and provide meaningful experiences. From crafting to designing birdhouses, navigating obstacle courses to enjoying face painting, students had a chance to explore their creativity and challenge themselves in a safe, sensory-friendly environment. Other activities included a petting zoo, bowling, sensory experiences, and even a "build-your-own snack" station.
BEARS is the acronym for BOCES Educating Autistic and Related Disorders Students. This program is designed to support students with autism spectrum disorders, along with those who experience multi-sensory or motor deficiencies, as well as developmental delays in language, cognitive, emotional, and psychomotor areas. BEARS serves students from kindergarten through grade 12 and up to age 21, helping them to reach their full potential through individualized care and a supportive learning environment.
The success of the BEARS Bonanza wouldn’t have been possible without the collaborative effort of many dedicated staff members. BEARS students were guided through each activity by the talented occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), assistive technology (AT), speech therapy (SP), art teachers, counselors, and physical education (PE) instructors. The event also saw the support of Career and Technical Education (CTE) students, related service providers, and a host of volunteers - all working together to create an inclusive and engaging atmosphere.
One of the special highlights of the day was the BEARS t-shirt design contest. Students were invited to create their own unique designs for a commemorative event shirt. Thanks to generous donations, all BEARS students and classroom staff received a custom-designed t-shirt, which they proudly wore throughout the event.
As the day came to a close, it was clear that the BEARS Bonanza had made an incredible impact on everyone involved. It was a celebration of the talents, abilities, and unique contributions of each student, showing just how much we can achieve when we come together to create an inclusive and supportive community.
For more photos, click here for a Google Drive folder.