Congrats, Gina!

Before the COVID pandemic hit, JPII adult participant and JPII graduate Gina C. had a part-time job that she loved.  Unfortunately, her employer needed to restructure because of new guidelines, and Gina’s position was eliminated.  It was a difficult time for her. Fast-forward one year, and Gina’s mother reached out...

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Justin’s Story

“I think the most special part of Justin being at JPII is that he has friends.” – Tisa U. Friendships and meaningful social interactions are essential for children to be successful and happy.  For those with disabilities, building friendships and interacting appropriately can be difficult, but with the proper support and...

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Medical and Mental Preparedness Grant

JPII Adult Program nurse, Pam Traczuk, instructs staff member on proper CPR techniques The COVID pandemic brought two health-related issues to light for JPII’s nurses and therapists.  Our nurses took a deeper dive into our preparedness to treat medical emergencies and identified the need for additional medical equipment and supplies...

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Today’s Gift Creates Lasting Legacy

Teacher Excellence Endowment Fund Planned gifts are very personal. They come from the heart and provide donors with the opportunity to create their lasting legacy. While these gifts are often made as bequests, it is possible to provide a planned gift today so you can see its immediate impact. At...

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Giving JP Tuesday

“Exercise has a clear physical effect on our body; making us stronger, positively changing our health, and combating underlying health conditions” – Tara Simmons Help Us Improve Physical Health And Relieve Stress Through Adaptive Physical Education Program So many things have changed as a result of the COVID pandemic.  For...

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Molli’s Story

“We’ve never had anyone care for Molli the way that your staff does,” – Kellie G Before coming to John Paul II Center for Special Learning (JPII), Molli had a difficult time in school. Simply getting her on and off the bus became a challenge because she didn’t feel comfortable...

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We Can Make This Work

Tonight I dropped a Chromebook off at Orlando’s house. The Chromebook was all set up, connected and ready to go. I did all this leg work so Orlando would have a smooth transition. I did this so he could be ready for the first day of school. His family chose...

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Getting to Know: Melissah Jablonski

It’s been 35 years since we first opened our doors at John Paul II Center and in that time, we’ve worked together with our community to help support our students and adults. Continuing on with that tradition, we would like to introduce Melissah Jablonski as our new Director of Advancement....

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Getting to Know: Brynn Haas

Mrs. Berkhammer has once again taken to the field to get the scoop on our newest teacher, Brynn Haas, who is in charge of our new Intermediate II/Life Skills classroom. Mrs. Berkhammer: Brynn, first off welcome to JPII! Could you give us a little background on your teaching experience? Ms....

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Meet: Julia Goheen

Meet Julia Goheen Adult Program Specialist Continuing our “Introduction Series”, we would like to introduce Julia Goheen, one of our two Adult Program Specialists. Our field reporter – Mrs. Berkhammer – has the exclusive interview: Rene Berkhammer: When did you start at JPII? Julia Goheen: January 13, 2017 B: What...

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