jacksonville autism family

December 2024 Newsletter

November 2024 – Students enjoyed time with their families celebrating a season of gratitude during our annual Thanksgiving Feast. We are grateful to the wonderful parent volunteers who worked together to make this year’s event a success! Please keep an eye out for the SignUpGenius for our Holiday Pajama Party scheduled Thursday, December 19th!

Giving Tuesday is one month away! A global day of generosity since 2012, millions of social media users will be choosing a charitable organization to donate or fundraise for on December 3rd, 2024. Please choose Mainspring Academy as your Giving Tuesday Charity and join us as we continue to provide quality, individualized education in a safe environment where our 66 children with intellectual and developmental differences can thrive.

Thanks to your generosity in the 2023-2024 school year, Mainspring Academy has been able to complete a 9000 square-foot expansion; provide technology, playground, and security system enhancements; provide enrichment programming; and award 15 financial hardship scholarships to families in need. It is our hope that we can count on your commitment to helping us continue to grow. Every donation, large and small, makes an impact on our students and the services we provide them.

Please donate HERE or click HERE on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 to create your Facebook fundraiser for Mainspring Academy on Giving Tuesday. On behalf of Mainspring Academy and most importantly, the many students who benefit from our efforts, thank you for your continued support. 

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Sunday, December 1st– Semi-annual tuition due
  • Tuesday, December 3rd – Giving Tuesday Schoolwide Fundraiser
  • Tuesday, December 3rd – P.A.C. Meeting in the cafeteria, 9:00am
  • Friday, December 13th – Ugly Christmas Sweater Day
  • Sunday, December 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
  • Thursday, December 19th – Holiday Pajama Party
  • Friday, December 20th– Early Dismissal – Begins at 12:45pm. All students must be out of the building no later than 1:00pm.
  • Monday, December 23rd -Friday, January 3rd – SCHOOL CLOSED for Winter Break
  • Monday, January 6th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Teacher Planning Day

Questions or missing any forms? Many questions and requests can be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Grace – December 3rd

Aiden W. – December 8th

Ms. Elise– December 10th

Ms. Stephanie– December 12th

Tyler– December 13th

Ms. Che – December 22nd

Ms. Kimberly – December 27th

 

 

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Mainspring Academy received a donation of $75,000 from the Neviaser Foundation, which will make a significant difference for our recent expansion, supporting the continuance of our goal to provide the quality resources that will help students with intellectual and developmental differences thrive beyond their school experience! The Neviaser Foundation has made tremendous impacts for the special needs community in Jacksonville and we are so thankful to be included in their vision!

We received a donation of $5000 from the Maryellen Willis Foundation for the purchase of SMART Interactive Whiteboards for additional classrooms this school year. The Maryellen Willis Foundation has supported many projects at Mainspring Academy including our adaptive PE program, music program, school technology, and an adaptive art curriculum. SMART Technology has been instrumental in fostering student academic engagement in the classroom. We are so grateful for their generosity and partnership in our school programming needs!

Thank you so much to HEAL Foundation for granting us funding for 20 adaptive mice for our student desktop computers! We are so grateful for their consistent support in helping us provide individualized learning for them!!

Thank you to Natural Life for choosing Mainspring Academy as your nonprofit organization to receive a $5000 grant for end-of-year giving. We are so appreciative of our compassionate community in helping our students grow!!!

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A friendly reminder that all volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>

Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting in the Cafeteria, Tuesday, December 3rd, 9:00am

Holiday Pajama Party, Thursday, December 19th, Sign Up TBD >

Holiday Pajama Party Volunteers and Supplies Needed: Thursday, December 19th will be our Winter Party and we will need the Santa Room decorated. Due Wednesday, December 18th at afternoon carline I will need as many Decorating Team parents as possible to bring Christmas Decorations together, please email Sabrena at [email protected]>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Events Decorating Team this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Art Program this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer to help out with projects in the Front Office or sorting/organizing supplies this 2024-2025 School Year Sign Up Here>

Handy parents interested in helping repair, build, or help move heavy items around the school may email Laney for more information [email protected]>

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

November 2024 Newsletter

October 2024 – Students had a blast participating in the sensory, craft, and game booths at our annual Fall Festival. They also dressed in costumes and visited spooky and creative candy booths designed by our parent volunteers. Please keep an eye out for the SignUpGenius for our Thanksgiving Feast scheduled Thursday, November 21st!

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Tuesday, November 5th – PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria, 9:00am
  • Friday, November 8th – Flannel Friday (Dressup)
  • Friday, November 15th – Tuition and Extended Day Due
  • Thursday, November 21st – Thanksgiving Feast (Schoolwide Event)
  • Monday, November 25th- Friday, November 29th – Tuition and Extended Care Due

Questions or missing any forms? Many questions and requests can be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Mr. Shayne –November 1st

Michelangelo – November 10th

Julia R.– November 11th

Ms. Jes– November 12th

Mariah – November 13th

Ms. Laney – November 16th

Anish – November 18th

Jeremiah– November 18th

Ms. Paige – November 22nd

Ms. Olivette – November 25th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Mainspring Academy received a donation of $75,000 from the Neviaser Foundation, which will make a significant difference for our recent expansion, supporting the continuance of our goal to provide the quality resources that will help students with intellectual and developmental differences thrive beyond their school experience! The Neviaser Foundation has made tremendous impacts for the special needs community in Jacksonville and we are so thankful to be included in their vision!

We received a donation of $5000 from the Maryellen Willis Foundation for the purchase of SMART Interactive Whiteboards for additional classrooms this school year. The Maryellen Willis Foundation has supported many projects at Mainspring Academy including our adaptive PE program, music program, school technology, and an adaptive art curriculum. SMART Technology has been instrumental in fostering student academic engagement in the classroom. We are so grateful for their generosity and partnership in our school programming needs!

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A friendly reminder that all volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>

Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting in the Cafeteria, Tuesday, November 5th, 9:00am

Thanksgiving Feast, Thursday, November 21st, Sign Up TBD >

Thanksgiving Decorating Team Volunteers and Supplies Needed: Thursday, November 21st will be our Thanksgiving Feast and we will need tables decorated. Due Wednesday, November 20th, I will need as many Decorating Team parents as possible to bring:
-black rectangle and round tablecloths, flower arrangements, vases, and Thanksgiving decorations you think might be appropriate for the tables and centerpieces, and at least 3 volunteers to come in to put it all together. This will be scheduled on morning of the 21st during carline.  If you will be helping with the table decor by bringing in items and/or putting it all together, please email Sabrena at [email protected]>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Events Decorating Team this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Art Program this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer to help out with projects in the Front Office or sorting/organizing supplies this 2024-2025 School Year Sign Up Here>

Handy parents interested in helping repair, build, or help move heavy items around the school may email Laney for more information [email protected]>

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

October 2024 Newsletter

SEPTEMBER 2024 – Students and staff celebrated the diverse cultures, favorite sports teams, and dressed up like their parents going to work this rainy Spirit Month! This year’s first Intercession will be taking place October 15th to 18th! Please keep an eye out for the SignUpGenius for Fall Festival (dates and times below)!

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Monday, September 30th- Friday, October 4th – 2024-2025 Yearbook Pre-sale – Purchase Now>
  • Tuesday, October 1st – PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria, 9:00am
  • Wednesday, October 2nd – Early Dismissal, 12:45-1:00pm, Students must be off campus no later than 1:00pm for Teacher Planning, NO AFTERCARE
  • Monday, October 14th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Teacher Planning Day
  • Tuesday, October 15th-18th – SCHOOL CLOSED unless enrolled in Fall Intercession
  • Tuesday, October 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
  • Thursday, October 31st– Fall Festival (Costumes Welcome) – NO AFTERCARE

Questions or missing any forms? Many questions and requests can be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Aiden A. –October 8th

Julia M. – October 10th

Tomas – October 11th

Diana – October 11th

Ms. Jen – October 13th

Taliyah – October 15th

Sadie D. – October 21st

Nathan Morales– October 24th

Riley – October 28th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A friendly reminder that all volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>

Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting in the Cafeteria, Tuesday, October 1st, 9:00am

Fall Festival Volunteers Needed Thursday, October 31st, 11am-2pm, Sign Up Here >

Fall Festival Decorating Team Volunteers and Supplies Needed: Thursday, October 31st will be our Fall Festival and we will need a mini pumpkin patch for a photo area outside during the festival. Due Wednesday, October 30th, I will need as many Decorating Team parents as possible to bring:
-1-3 medium to large assorted pumpkins, stack of hay, any other outdoor fall decorations you think might be appropriate for the photo area (scarecrow, sunflowers, wheelbarrow, wagon, etc), and at least 3 volunteers to come in to put it all together. This will be scheduled on morning of the 31st during carline.  If you will be helping with the pumpkin patch by bringing in items and/or putting it all together, please email Sabrena at [email protected]>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Events Decorating Team this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Art Program this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer to help out with projects in the Front Office or sorting/organizing supplies this 2024-2025 School Year Sign Up Here>

Handy parents interested in helping repair, build, or help move heavy items around the school may email Laney for more information [email protected]>

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

September 2024 Newsletter

AUGUST 2024 – Mainspring Academy has had an exciting first month of school as staff and students have been getting accustomed to new routines! Don’t miss Open House and School Spirit Month Festivities Next Month (Event Details Below)!

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Sunday, September 1st – School Spiritwear Shop Closes – Last chance to purchase Mainspring Apparel for Spirit Day (9/27). Shop Here>
  • Monday, September 2nd – SCHOOL CLOSED for Labor Day
  • Friday, September 6th– Fall Intersession Contracts (Quickschools) and Deposits Due
  • Friday, September 6th– Spirit Month: Diversity Day (Dressup)
    • Dress representing your culture!
  • Tuesday, September 10th – PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria (9:00am).
    • Discussion: Fall Festival
  • Friday, September 13th – First Responder Visit & Spirit Month: Fun Job Friday (Dressup)
    • Dress like mom or dad going to work OR dress representing your favorite jobs!
  • Sunday, September 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
  • Monday, September 16th – Open House for Callie, Ariana, & Elise’s Classes (6pm-8pm)
  • Thursday, September 19th – Open House for Classes: Paige, Che, Lisa, Sarita, Sara, Kim, Dabbs, Nicole, & Liz’ s Classes
  • Friday, September 20th – Spirit Month: Team Player Day (Dressup)
    • Dress representing your favorite sports team.
  • Friday, September 27th -Remaining Fall Intersession Fees Due
  • Friday, September 27th – Yearbook Pre-Sales & Spirit Month: Mainspring Spirit Day (Dressup)
    • Wear your Mainspring Shirts!
  • Tuesday, October 1st – PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria (9:00am).
    • Discussion: Fall Festival & Thanksgiving Feast
  • Wednesday, October 2nd – Early Dismissal (12:45pm) – NO AFTERCARE, Students must be off campus no later than 1:00pm for Teacher Planning

Questions or missing any forms? Many questions and requests can be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Mr. Mikey – September 2nd

Jaelyn – September 4th

Sam N. – September 10th

Camauri – September 13th

Olivia – September 13th

Nathan Muzichuk – September 14th

Luke – September 15th

Ilan – September 17th

Bryce – September 19th

Krishna – September 23rd

Dany – September 27th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A friendly reminder that all volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>

Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting and Welcome Breakfast will take place Tuesday, September 10th in the Mainspring Academy Cafeteria. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Events Decorating Team this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Art Program this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer to help out with projects in the Front Office or sorting/organizing supplies this 2024-2025 School Year Sign Up Here>

Handy parents interested in helping repair, build, or help move heavy items around the school may email Laney for more information [email protected]>

Our annual Sensory Superhero Day will take place Friday, September 13th beginning at 10:00am. (Volunteers will be setting up between 9:00-10:00am and event will end around 12:00pm). Mainspring students and staff are encouraged to dress representing their parents’ jobs – their favorite superheroes – as we engage with the real-life super heroes all around us! If you would like to set up a booth, please contact Sabrena for more information!
[email protected]>

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

August 2024 Newsletter

SUMMER 2024 – Mainspring Sensory Summer Program Students were “in their art era” thanks to the generosity of HEAL Foundation, who sponsored a summer of artistic discovery through adaptive activities for our students with intellectual and developmental differences. Students did nature photography with our friends at the Jacksonville Zoo, expressed themselves in their very own Paint & Sip Day, created a beautiful multimedia school mosaic, and designed their very own tie-dye t-shirts! Mainspring is extremely grateful to HEAL for providing opportunities for our students to apply their learning in unique and memorable ways! Learn More About HEAL Foundation >

July 26th was the 24th anniversary since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed – a law that protects the rights of people with disabilities in all areas of public life like schools, jobs, transportation, and more. It’s there to make sure people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilites are still speaking out today about expectations that made them feel unheard at school, home, or in the community. As parents, teachers, and friends, it’s important to remember the heart of ADA is self-advocacy. By listening to IDD voices , we can work together to create a safer, more inclusive, and accepting world for our children! Watch “Letting Go of Control and Rethinking Support for Autistic Individuals” here >

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Tuesday, August 1st– Annual Tuition Due
  • Tuesday, August 1st– Mainspring Academy Spiritwear Store Open ONLY from August 1st- September 1st!
  • Monday, August 5th – New Parent Orientation and Meet the Teacher
  • Wednesday, August 7th – First Day of School
  • Monday, August 12th – Special Olympics Permission, Vocational Field Trip Permission Due
  • Tuesday, August 13th – Open Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting 9:15am at Mainspring Academy – Welcome Breakfast
  • Thursday, August 15th – Extended Day Fees Due
  • Thursday, August 15th – Out-of-pocket Tuition Due

Questions or missing any forms? Many questions and requests can be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Jude – August 2nd

Dylan – August 11th

Drew – August 19th

Sage – August 20th

Ali – August 25th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A friendly reminder that all volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>

Our first open Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting and Welcome Breakfast will take place Tuesday, August 13th at 9:15am in the Mainspring Academy Cafeteria. Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>
Volunteer for our Special Events Decorating Team this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>
Volunteer for our Art Program this 2024-2025 School Year. Sign Up Here>
Volunteer to help out with projects in the Front Office this 2024-2025 School Year Sign Up Here>

Our annual Sensory Superhero Day will take place Friday, September 13th beginning at 10:00am. (Volunteers will be setting up between 9:00-10:00am). Mainspring students and staff are encouraged to dress representing their parents’ jobs – their favorite superheroes – as we engage with the real-life super heroes all around us!
More Information TBD>

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Exciting News! Check back towards the end of August! Link to Mainspring Store Coming Soon!

Summer 2024 Newsletter

May 2024 – Mainspring Academy would like to congratulate two 12th grade students that staff has watched grow and thrive on campus through the years: Amanda Reyes-Baez and Adam Wilson. They will be recognized during our first graduation ceremony along with four students who have successfully completed our Transition Program : Maddox Evans, Dean Gillette, Kris Helt, and Micah Brown. We are so proud of you and all of your accomplishments! Mainspring Academy would like to give special thanks to MK’s Cookie Creations , First Coast Forge Lasercrafted Gifts, and Bamba Box for their generosity in providing treats for our ceremony and gifts for our graduates!

Mainspring Academy’s Sensory Art Summer Program begins June 24th and ends July 19th.

ALL PARENTS: Please keep an eye out late June for Enrollment Packets, Extended Care Packets plus deposit fees, School Supply List, and first month’s tuition. All will be due in July.

NEW PARENTS: Please expect invitations from Quickschools and Class Dojo in July. Copies of birth certificates, latest physicals + immunizations (no earlier than 2023 are also due in July.
Class assignments and Meet the Teacher dates will be distributed through Teacher Preplanning in late July or Early August.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Monday, June 3rd – Remaining balances for Parent Participation Hours Due
  • Thursday, June 6th– Open PAC Meeting in the cafeteria
  • Friday, June 7th– Week 4 Summer Camp and Extended Care Fees Due
  • Tuesday, June 11th – Cruiseday Tuesday – Students and staff will be encouraged to kick off the summer by dressing like they’re going on a cruise or tropical vacation.
  • Friday, June 14th – Summer Splash Day, Last Day of School for Students EARLY DISMISSAL AND NO AFTERCARE
  • Monday, June 17th – Teacher Planning Day
  • Tuesday, June 18th – Friday, June 21st – SCHOOL CLOSED FOR SUMMER BREAK
  • Monday, June 24th – Friday, June 28th -A 3D World: Summer Program Week 1
  • JULY: Please keep an eye out late June for Enrollment Packets, Extended Care Packets plus deposit fees, School Supply List, and first month’s tuition. All will be due in July. New parents should expect invitations from Quickschools and Class Dojo. Class assignments and Meet the Teacher dates are usually distributed in late July.
  • Monday, July 1st- Wednesday, July 3rd, Friday, July 5th– Paint the Summer: Summer Program Week – 2
  • Monday, July 8th – Friday, July 12th– Bits and Pieces: Mixed Media – Summer Program Week 3
  • Monday, July 15th- Friday, July 19th – Summer Style – Summer Program Week 4
  • Monday, July 22nd – Friday, July 26th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Summer Break, Teacher Planning Weeks to Follow

Questions or missing any forms? Check Quickschools! Many questions and requests can also be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information (Quickschools)> More Information (Parent Corner)>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Ms. Callie- June 3rd

Connor L. – June 4th

Kipling– June 15th

Minal – June 24th

Mikiah– June 25th

Turner – June 28th

Ms. Liz W.– July 1st

Connor S.– July 2nd

Miles – July 12th

Ishmael – July 13th

Nealie – July 15th

Eliza – July 16th

Ms. Amy – July 20th

Maddox – July 24th

Josh – July 25th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Mainspring Academy has been awarded a Spring grant from HEAL Foundation to fund the larger events and projects planned for our Sensory Art Summer Program! We are so excited to guide our students in exploring new ways to express themselves!

Mainspring Academy received a donation of $70,000 from the Neviaser Foundation, which will make a significant difference for our recent expansion, supporting the continuance of our goal to provide the quality resources that will help students with intellectual and developmental differences thrive beyond their school experience! The Neviaser Foundation has made tremendous impacts for the special needs community in Jacksonville and we are so thankful to be included in their vision!

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

Hello, It’s me again, Benny the Manatee! July 26th will be the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act! ADA U.S. legislation that provides civil rights protection to individuals with physical or mental disabilities. It protects people with disabilities from discrimination in many areas, including employment, education, and public accommodations!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A few friendly reminders:

(1) All volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>.
(2) If seeking parent participation credit, all volunteer hours must be reported via Parent Participation Credit Request Form. More Information>.

Join our Parent Action Committee (PAC) (via Mobile or Desktop App)>

Thursday, June 6th at 9:15am – There will be an Open PAC meeting in the cafeteria to plan Summer Splash Day

Volunteers will be needed on Friday, June 14th from 9am-12pm for Summer Splash Day. Signup to come!

Please be on the lookout for a summer camp wishlist! We are also in need of handy volunteers to help install playground equipment!

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Exciting News! Check back towards the end of August! Link to Mainspring Store Coming Soon!

May 2024 Newsletter

April 2024 – Mainspring Academy held its Spring Special Olympics event on campus, with the help of parent and community volunteers. Congratulations to the 1st place winners of our Soccer and Track/Field Games: Aiden Wilson, Ashlyn Arbogust, Maddox Evans, and Alison D’esterhazy!

Mainspring Academy’s Board of Directors held its 3rd annual Bourbon and Bites event, an exciting banquet fundraiser to benefit Mainspring Academy’s tuition hardship program, which provides families with financial challenges funding to pay for their child’s specialized education. Guests enjoyed a four-course meal with whiskey pairings, prepared by Fish Camp executive chefs.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Friday, May 3rd – Summer Camp Pay-In-Full Due
  • Tuesday, May 6th– SCHOOL CLOSED for Teacher Planning Day
  • Wednesday, May 7th- Friday, May 10th- SCHOOL CLOSED unless enrolled in Spring Intersession
  • Monday, May 13th – Friday, May 17th – Teacher Appreciation Week at Mainspring Academy
    • Monday – Parents volunteers will be arriving in the morning to cook a hot, fresh breakfast for staff.
    • Tuesday – Staff will receive appreciation bags from parents
    • Wednesday – Staff will receive lunch, provided by Mainspring Academy
    • Thursday– Parents will write kind notes on the notecards being sent home to fill each staff member’s buckets.
    • Friday – Parent volunteers will go to each class to offer something salty and something sweet on a decorated food cart.
  • Tuesday, May 14th – Open PAC Meeting in the cafeteria to plan Summer Splash Day
  • Wednesday, May 15th– 2024-2025 Full Enrollment Fees Due
  • Wednesday, May 15th– Out-of-Pocket Tuition Due
  • Friday, May 17th – Week 1 Summer Camp and Camp Extended Care Fees Due
  • Friday, May 24th – Week 2 Summer Camp and Camp Extended Care Fees Due
  • Friday, May 31st – Week 3 Summer Camp and Camp Extended Care Fees Due
  • Monday, June 3rd – Parent Participation Hours and Remaining Balances Due
  • Friday, June 7th – Week 4 Summer Camp and Extended Care Fees Due
  • Tuesday, June 11th – Cruiseday Tuesday – Students and staff will be encouraged to kick off the summer by dressing like they’re going on a cruise or tropical vacation.
  • Friday, June 14th – Summer Splash Day, Last Day of School for Students EARLY DISMISSAL AND NO AFTERCARE
  • Monday, June 17th – Teacher Planning Day
  • Tuesday, June 18th – Friday, June 21st – SCHOOL CLOSED FOR SUMMER BREAK
  • Monday, June 24th – Friday, June 28th – Paint the Summer: Summer Program Week 1
  • Monday, July 1st- Wednesday, July 3rd, Friday, July 5th – A 3D World: Summer Program Week 2
  • Monday, July 8th – Friday, July 12th– Mixed Media – Summer Program Week 3
  • Monday, July 15th- Friday, July 19th – Summer Style – Summer Program Week 4
  • Monday, July 22nd – Friday, July 26th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Summer Break, Teacher Planning Weeks to Follow

Questions or missing any forms? Check Quickschools! Many questions and requests can also be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information (Quickschools)> More Information (Parent Corner)>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Sadie B. – May 7th

Kris  – May 7th

Mr. Jeff – May 14th

JuanLuis – May 16th

Ariel– May 19th

Ms. Sabrena – May 19th

Noah– May 22nd

Theo– May 28th 

Ms. Sara – May 29th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Mainspring Academy has been awarded a Fall grant from HEAL Foundation to help us enhance our playground! We are so excited to be able to provide some new equipment to help our students regulate, unwind, and have fun during recess!

Mainspring Academy received a donation of $70,000 from the Neviaser Foundation, which will make a significant difference for our recent expansion, supporting the continuance of our goal to provide the quality resources that will help students with intellectual and developmental differences thrive beyond their school experience! The Neviaser Foundation has made tremendous impacts for the special needs community in Jacksonville and we are so thankful to be included in their vision!

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

Hello, It’s me again, Benny the Manatee! May is Mental Health Awareness Month!  Did you know studies estimate that mental health conditions are up to 50% more common in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities than the general population? Did you know people with autism are four times more likely to develop depression than neurotypical people, and that it is even considered as the most common mental health condition in people with autism spectrum disorders? Check out the helpful resources below on signs and symptoms of common mental health risks within our unique population:

“Depression in People with Intellectual Disabilities” (University of Hertfordshire)
“How to Recognise When an Autistic Adult is Depressed” (Atwood and Garnett)
“Do People with Autism Experience Depression Differently?” (Psychology Today)
“The Art and Science of Treating Depression in Autism” (SPARK)
“Anxiety in students with intellectual disabilities” (Frontiers in Education)

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A few friendly reminders:

(1) All volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>.
(2) If seeking parent participation credit, all volunteer hours must be reported via Parent Participation Credit Request Form. More Information>.

Join our Parent Action Committee (PAC) (via Mobile or Desktop App)>

Tuesday, May 14th at 9:15am – There will be an Open PAC meeting in the cafeteria to plan Summer Splash Day

Volunteers will be needed on Friday, June 14th from 9am-12pm for Summer Splash Day. Signup to come!

Please be on the lookout for a summer camp wishlist! We are also in need of handy volunteers to help install playground equipment!

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Exciting News! Check back towards the end of August! Link to Mainspring Store Coming Soon!

April 2024 Newsletter

March 2024 – Mainspring Academy joined in World Neurodiversity Celebration Week, urging the community to “Empower Minds of All Kinds”. Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a “worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organizations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognize the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual”. Students created colorful string paintings as representations of their beautiful and unique minds. Each Mainspring student also worked together to create a stunning drip art piece in honor of the Neviaser Foundation.

Mainspring Academy received a donation of $70,000 from the Neviaser Foundation, which will make a significant difference for our recent expansion, supporting the continuance of our goal to provide the quality resources that will help students with intellectual and developmental differences thrive beyond their school experience! The Neviaser Foundation has made tremendous impacts for the special needs community in Jacksonville and we are so thankful to be included in their vision!

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • Friday, April 5th– 2024-2025 Contracts Due
  • Friday, April 5th- Summer Extended School Year Contracts and $100 Deposits Due
  • Friday, April 12th– Full Spring Intersession Fee Due
  • Monday, April 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Payments Due
  • Friday, April 18th – Special Olympics Soccer and Track/Field (Time and Location TBD)
  • Friday, April 19th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Teacher Planning Day
  • Thursday, April 25th – Bourbon and Bites 2024

Questions or missing any forms? Check Quickschools! Many questions and requests can also be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information (Quickschools)> More Information (Parent Corner)>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

JJ – April 3rd

Dean – April 4th

Ms Lisa – April 10th

Taylor – April 11th

Ashlyn– April 11th

Mr. Jonathon – April 16th

Vaughn – April 30th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS

Mainspring Academy has been awarded a Fall grant from HEAL Foundation to help us enhance our playground! We are so excited to be able to provide some new equipment to help our students regulate, unwind, and have fun during recess!

Mainspring Academy received a donation of $70,000 from the Neviaser Foundation, which will make a significant difference for our recent expansion, supporting the continuance of our goal to provide the quality resources that will help students with intellectual and developmental differences thrive beyond their school experience! The Neviaser Foundation has made tremendous impacts for the special needs community in Jacksonville and we are so thankful to be included in their vision!

On behalf of the Mainspring Academy community of parents, staff, and supporters, thank you for the compassion and commitment you have shown for our students and school. It is the kindness of our donors and volunteers that has helped us to expand in size and quality, furthering our mission to provide quality, individualized education in a safe learning environment for students with intellectual and developmental differences who are often missed.
Thank you for the differences you make.

Hello, It’s me again, Benny the Manatee! April is Autism Acceptance Month! Did you know 79% of our students at MSA have an ASD diagnosis? Check out the videos below to learn why we should be empowering autistic voices and shifting from Autism Awareness to Autism Acceptance!

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

A few friendly reminders:

(1) All volunteers NOT listed as a student’s parent, guardian, or sibling must complete a Volunteer Application to be kept on file. More Information>.
(2) If seeking parent participation credit, all volunteer hours must be reported via Parent Participation Credit Request Form. More Information>.

Join our Parent Action Committee (PAC) (via Mobile or Desktop App)>

Volunteers will be needed on April 18, 2024 for Special Olympics Soccer and Track/Field. Details on dates and times in the following link. Get on the list>

Curious about Mainspring Academy’s needs and how to support us through donations, pledges, or sponsorships? Check out our Ways to Give Page. More Information>

MERCH

Exciting News! Check back towards the end of August! Link to Mainspring Store Coming Soon!

Bourbon and Bites: April 25th, 2024

Please join us for our 3rd annual Bourbon and Bites event benefitting Mainspring Academy!

WHAT: Mainspring Academy’s Board of Directors invites you to enjoy a four-course dinner prepared by executive chefs from the Julington Creek Fish Camps. Each course will be expertly paired with premium bourbons. 2024’s Bourbon and Bites will benefit Mainspring Academy’s financial hardship scholarship program, which provides families with financial challenges funding to pay for their child’s specialized education.

If you cannot attend, but would like to make a donation to Mainspring Academy’s tuition hardship program, please CLICK HERE.

WHEN: Bourbon and Bites 2024 will take place, Thursday, April 25th, 2024, from 6:00pm EST to 9:00pm EST

WHERE: Julington Creek Fish Camp, Lower Level, 12760 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL, 32233

CONTACT: RSVP to your table host by Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

For more information about Bourbon and Bites 2024, please contact Sabrena Snow, Director of Student and Community Affairs at [email protected] or (904)503-0344.