Congratulations to Victoria Arroyo — our Jesse J. Kaplan School “MOVER of the Month” for January! When Victoria first came to the Jesse J. Kaplan School at age five, she was non-ambulatory and dependent on a stroller and handheld assistance to move around her classroom and school.
Victoria has made amazing progress over the last year and a half and is now a fully-ambulatory student! Victoria is now able to ascend and descend steps, which means she no longer needs a stroller for transportation to and from school. She can walk over and select a toy from the play, sensory and augmentative communication centers. Victoria walks to all of her specials and can explore her school and all of the activities available to her. “Victoria loves to do laps around school and go out for walks. Being an independent ambulator has given her so much independence, and that’s one of our goals with the MOVE™ program” said Physical Therapist Kristin Mullen.
Kaplan’s MOVE™ (Mobility Opportunities via Education) program combines therapy and education to teach children with physical disabilities and complex needs the functional skills of sitting, standing and walking. MOVE™ aims to give children an opportunity to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. Every child deserves the right to MOVE™.
Contact the Rockland BOCES Jesse J. Kaplan School at (845) 627-4797 to learn how MOVE™ can help someone in your life.