Congratulations to Aradia “Dia” Serra-Vandermark — our Jesse J. Kaplan School “MOVER of the Month” for March! Dia loves to engage with staff and peers, and she can often be heard saying “hey you” and “let’s go!”

Dia is learning to stand with assistance, and she is working on improving head control using a variety of equipment. She uses an activity chair in her classroom to participate throughout the day. While in the prone stander, Dia strengthens her gross motor movements using adapted toys. Dia uses her gait trainer to visit the sensory wall and to participate in circle time.

“MOVE™ has been a big part of Dia’s program,” said teacher Jillian Walsh. “We’ve been working with Dia for about five years and she’s such a pleasure to work with. She’s actually been a MOVEr of the Month before and she continues to grow. Dia works very hard each and every day. She really gives it her all, and we’re so happy to see her thrive!”

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.