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SEPTEMBER 2025– Students celebrated Spirit Month with themed days that encouraged creativity, pride, and community. They dressed to represent their cultures for Diversity Day and sampled international treats during World of Cookies. For Fun Job Friday, students came as their dream professions and met local essential workers, including police officers, firefighters, EMS, and a nurse. Team Player Day brought out favorite jerseys and team gear, while Spirit Day united everyone in Mainspring pride.

If you haven’t yet read the news about Mainspring’s merger with Hope Haven, please take a moment to review the announcement here>

Want to submit photos, testimonials, or stories? Send them here>
Want to Shout Out a staff member for going above and beyond? Tell us about it here>

LOCKDOWN DRILLS
By Sabrena Snow, Director of Student and Community Affairs

 Dear Parents,  

This month, our school will be conducting a routine lockdown drill as part of our ongoing commitment to student and staff safety. Florida Statute 1006.07(4)(b) requires that lockdown drills be conducted once per quarter, and this will be the first for the school year.

The purpose of this drill is not to alarm, but to ensure that our staff and students are familiar with what to do in the unlikely event of an emergency. Just like a fire drill, a lockdown drill is about readiness.

Here’s what to expect:

 •  The drill will last approximately six minutes.
 •  When staff hear the word “lockdown” over the walkie system, they will have exactly one minute to gather students and move them to the nearest lockable room.
 •  For the remaining five minutes, administrative staff will walk through the building to confirm that all rooms have been properly secured and are inaccessible from the outside.
 •  Staff has received training on individual classroom safety plans. Our safety committee will debrief after each drill to evaluate best strategies.

Please be assured that this will be conducted in a calm, structured, and age-appropriate manner. No dramatization or alarming scenarios will be used. The goal is simply to build confidence and awareness in a safe and supportive way.

If you have any questions about the process or would like support in speaking to your child about the drill, please don’t hesitate to reach out. [email protected], (904)503-0344.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Wednesday, October 1st – Early Dismissal. Carline begins 12:45pm, students must be out of the building by 1:00pm
• Tuesday, October 7th– PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria (9:00am)
• Wednesday, October 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
• Monday, October 20th – SCHOOL CLOSED to Students for Teacher Planning Day
• Tuesday, October 21st- Friday, October 24th – Fall Intersession
• Wednesday, October 29th – HH+MSA Family Town Hall (9:15am In-Person, 6:00pm Virtual)
• Friday, October 31st – Fall Festival (11am-2pm), School-Appropriate Costumes Welcome

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

Taliyah– October 15th

Sadie D. – October 21st

Nathan Morales – October 24th

Ms. Morgan – October 22nd

DIFFERENCE MAKERS – Honoring Trailblazers this Month

National Disability Employment Awareness Month : This month highlights the importance of creating inclusive workplaces where individuals with disabilities can thrive. It reminds us how vocational skills, independence, and dignity go hand in hand – something we begin building right here at Mainspring.

Learning Disabilities Awareness Month: An important reminder that students with dyslexia, dysgraphia, ADHD, and other learning differences are capable of achieving great things with the right supports and understanding. It’s not about if they learn – it’s about how.

ADHD Awareness Month: ADHD can impact focus, memory, mood, and behavior. This month is about education, compassion, and celebrating the unique energy and creativity that students with ADHD bring into the classroom.

October 10th (World Mental Health Day): Many of our students navigate anxiety, depression, or mood disorders. This day promotes open conversations and reminds families and caregivers they’re not alone in their mental health journeys.

These milestones encourage our students to see their challenges not as limitations, but as strengths that contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world!

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>

Report your required annual parent participation hours. Hours are only logged if you report them, without exception Submit Hours Here>

Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting Tuesday, October 7th at 9:00am in the Mainspring Academy Cafeteria.

Fall Festival Signup for Friday, October 31st Sign Up TBD>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2025-2026 School Year. Sign Up Here>

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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

MERCH

Mainspring Store> View Spiritwear Catalog>

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AUGUST 2025– The first month of the 2025–2026 school year has been full of energy, growth, and connection at Mainspring Academy. Students have been settling into their classrooms, exploring new learning routines, and making meaningful progress toward their goals. Teachers and staff have worked tirelessly to create safe, welcoming environments that nurture both academic and social development. Already, there have been countless moments to celebrate, whether it’s students showing pride in their work, classrooms planning creative projects, or families stepping in to support school events. The positive momentum is clear, and it reflects the shared commitment of staff, students, and families to making this year one of growth and achievement. As we move into the fall, Mainspring Academy remains dedicated to building on this strong foundation. With continued teamwork and enthusiasm, there’s no doubt the months ahead will bring even more opportunities to shine.

Please mark your calendars for the Open House, October Intersession Application Deadline, and September Spirit Month Event dates listed below!

Want to submit photos, testimonials, or stories? Send them here>
Want to Shout Out a staff member for going above and beyond? Tell us about it here>

ILP SEASON AT MAINSPRING!
By Dina Parisi, Head of School

The new school year not only brings new routines, but also one of the most important times of year here at Mainspring—ILP season!  Most of our students have their annual ILP meeting between October and January, however what many parents may not realize is that the ILP process starts for teachers and administrators on the first day of school!

ILP stands for Individual Learning Plan. If you’ve heard of an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) in public schools, it’s similar in spirit but different in purpose. Unlike IEPs, which are legally binding compliance documents, our ILPs are accountability documents. They help us set priorities for each student and give families a clear picture of progress. Most importantly, they remind us that education is a team effort, and we love when parents are part of the process!

What Parents Can Expect

Right now, our teachers are busy getting to know your children. They’re using curriculum-based assessments, taking behavior and participation data, and jotting down observations about what each student enjoys, struggles with, as well as where they shine.

All of this information comes together to create a Present Level of Performance (or PLOP). This “snapshot” is the starting point for setting meaningful goals in your child’s ILP.

And here’s the good news – an ILP is not set in stone! If your child reaches a goal quickly, or if we realize we’ve set the bar in the wrong place, we can make changes. We also adjust goals as student needs or circumstances shift. In other words, the ILP is a living document, designed to grow and change right alongside your child.

ILPs also help shape the information you’ll see on progress reports and report cards. While they don’t capture everything your child does during the school day, they do highlight the priorities we’re tracking most closely.

Two Types of ILPs at Mainspring

We use two different kinds of ILPs, depending on a student’s age and stage of development:

 • Academic ILP – Typically for students in 8th grade and younger. These plans include goals across domains such as Cognitive and Academic skills, Independent Functioning, Social-Emotional/Behavior, Health, and Communication. Sometimes, students may move off an Academic ILP earlier if it makes sense and we as a team (remember you are part of this!) decide it is the best path forward.

 • Functional Academic ILP – Usually for students in 9th grade and older. These plans are more transitional in nature, focusing on preparing students for life after school. Domains include Functional Academics, Self-Advocacy, Vocational, Independent Functioning, Health, Social-Emotional, and Communication. The goal here is to build as many life skills as possible as students prepare for adulthood.

 • NEW THIS YEAR- Temporary ILP – Students that are new to Mainspring will be receiving their a temporary document for us to use as a starting point for goal creation and progress monitoring.  These are ready and going out this week!  While there will not be a formal meeting, we are happy to have a brief meeting to discuss our thought process for initial goals.  These goals are usually meant to help the student learn basic school skills that are important to master in order to be successful in our program.  Domains for TLPs are Cognitive Academic, Social-Emotional, Independent Functioning, and Communication.

At Mainspring, we know that every child’s path is unique. The ILP is one of the ways we honor that individuality – by creating personalized goals, tracking meaningful growth, and celebrating progress along the way. We can’t wait to partner with you this ILP season to make sure each student is set up for success, both now and in the future!

UPCOMING EVENTS

• SPIRIT MONTH ACTIVITIES – View Schedule Above!
• Monday, September 1st – Mainspring Spiritwear Store Closes. View Spiritwear Store>
• Monday, September 1st – SCHOOL CLOSED for Labor Day
• Tuesday, September 2nd – PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria (9:00am)
• Monday, September 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
• Friday, September 26th – Yearbook Pre-Sales (Link Coming Soon)
• Friday, September 26th – Fall Intersession Applications and Payments Due (Quickschools)

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

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Jaelyn – September 4th

Sam N. – September 10th

Olivia – September 13th

Mariah – September 13th

Nathan Muzichuk – September 14th

Luke – September 15th

Bryce – September 19th

Mr. Ben – September 28th

DIFFERENCE MAKERS – Honoring Trailblazers this Summer

National Assistive Technology Awareness Month: Recognizes tools like AAC devices, voice output tools, fidget aids, noise-reducing headphones, adaptive seating, and more – technology that empowers non-speaking and sensory-sensitive learners to communicate, regulate, and learn with confidence.

September 12th, Birthday of Jennifer Keelan-Chaffins: At just 8 years old, Jennifer, who has cerebral palsy, crawled up the steps of the U.S. Capitol during the historic 1990 “Capitol Crawl,” helping to spark the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Her bravery helped change laws (and minds) about what children with disabilities can do.

These milestones encourage our students to see their challenges not as limitations, but as strengths that contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world!

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>

Report your required annual parent participation hours. Hours are only logged if you report them, without exception Submit Hours Here>

Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting Tuesday, September 2nd at 9:00am in the Mainspring Academy Cafeteria.

World of Cookies Signup for Friday, September 5th Sign Up Here>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2025-2026 School Year. Sign Up Here>

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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

MERCH

Mainspring Store> View Spiritwear Catalog>

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SUMMER 2025– This summer, our students had a blast expressing their creativity through a variety of hands-on art activities. They designed vibrant tie-dye canvas bags, practiced their photography skills by capturing digital photos of reptiles at the Jacksonville Zoo, created colorful mosaic tile coasters, and enjoyed a refreshing paint-and-sip session, where they not only painted beautiful pieces but also squeezed their own fresh lemonade!

Please mark your calendars for the Orientation, Meet the Teacher, and Spiritwear Store Opening dates listed below! View Spiritwear Store>

As the new school year approaches, we are excited to welcome our students back on Monday, August 12th for another amazing year of learning, growth, and fun.

Please be sure to visit our Parent Corner> to review updated school policies and procedures for the year.

Want to Shout Out a staff member for going above and beyond? Tell us about it here>

WHEN STAFF TURNOVER HAPPENS
By Dina Parisi, Head of School

A new school year brings fresh faces, new classroom assignments, and policy updates. Change can be hard – especially in the relationship-driven work we do with students who depend on consistency.  It is no secret that the special education and clinical services sector is experiencing historic turnover and shortages.  While we work hard to keep our team stable, staff changes sometimes happen.

Why Staff Might Leave

• Not the Right Fit for Them – Our students have complex needs, and the work can be more physically or emotionally demanding than some expect. Success here takes a special kind of commitment.

• Not the Right Fit for Us – Training can build skills, but reliability is essential. Our students need consistent attendance and timeliness from their staff to thrive, as well as ethical behavior from staff to protect their physical and emotional safety.

• Life Events – Childcare changes, relocations, illness, or personal situations can unexpectedly pull someone away mid-year.

• Burnout – Special education is rewarding but demanding. Even the most dedicated professionals need balance to prevent burnout.

You may be wondering why I am choosing to bring up such a negative topic in the first newsletter of the school year.  It comes down to this…. transparency!  As a parent of a special needs child (he’s actually an adult!), I know how frustrating it can be to experience staff changes.  I once had my son’s entire ABA team leave their clinic over a 2-week period and I was devastated, not only by the loss of support, but for the loss of special relationships he built.  I want to make sure you understand that if or when a staff change happens, we understand the impact is not just an issue of pragmatics, but one wrought with emotion.

Here is what I will and won’t do, as well as what you can do to help with the issue of staff turnover:

My Commitment to You

• Share teacher changes with parents as soon as possible.
• Avoid changes unless necessary.
• Provide as much coverage as possible so students’ days remain as consistent as possible.
• Maintain a supportive, responsive work environment for staff.
• To the greatest extent possible, support your child’s understanding that the person they are used to seeing is no longer here.
• Devote time and resources to recruiting.

What I Can’t/Won’t Do

• Ignore policy or ethical violations, there is no space for a lack of safety or integrity at our school- regardless of tenure or how popular and liked they are.
• Share private details about why someone leaves.
• Guarantee your child will have the same paraprofessional all year (sometimes we shift roles for training, fit, or versatility), but we will announce when there are changes.

How Parents Can Help

• Respect staff’s personal time—contact during work hours unless there is a truly pressing issue.
• Partner with your child’s team in a collaborative, positive way.
• Approach concerns with the assumption that everyone wants the best for your child.
• Say “thank you”—it makes a big difference!

While turnover is part of our reality, I want to reassure you: our team this year is strong, positive, and committed. The first two weeks of planning were filled with incredible energy and teamwork. I know that together—as staff and parents—we can keep this momentum going for a wonderful school year.

Here’s to a great year for TEAM MAINSPRING!

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Fri, August 8th – New Students Only Orientation 1: Callie, Nkenge (Ms.B), Luisa (Sub), Jilltorra, Liz, 9:00-10:30am
• Fri, August 8th – Meet the Teacher 1 for New AND Returning Students: Callie, Nkenge (Ms.B), Luisa (Sub), Jilltorra, Liz, 10:30-11:30am
• Monday, August 11th – New Students Only Orientation 2: Nicole, Lisa, Elise, Gabrelle, Che, 9:00-10:30am
• Monday, August 11th – Meet the Teacher 2 for New AND Returning Students: Callie, Nkenge (Ms.B), Luisa (Sub), Jilltorra, Liz, 10:30-11:30am
• Monday, August 11th – Mainspring Academy Spiritwear Store Opens unly until September 1st
• Monday, August 12th – First Day of School
• Friday, August 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
• Tuesday, August 19th – Open Parent Action Committee (PAC) Meeting 9:00 in Mainspring Academy Cafeteria – Welcome Breakfast

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

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Ms. Callie – June 3rd

Deniz – June 27th

Turner– June 28th

Connor – July 2nd

Everett – July 8th

Miles – July 12th

Eliza – July 16th

Klayver – July 30th

Dylan – August 11th

Nicole – August 20th

Ms. B – August 22nd

DIFFERENCE MAKERS – Honoring Trailblazers this Summer

July – Disability Pride Month: A time to honor the history, experiences, and achievements of individuals with disabilities. It commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in July 1990.

August 8 – Temple Grandin’s Birthday: Dr. Grandin, who is autistic, is a scientist, author, and advocate who revolutionized humane livestock handling and inspired millions with her voice and brilliance.

These milestones encourage our students to see their challenges not as limitations, but as strengths that contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world!

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 19th at 9:00am in the Mainspring Academy Cafeteria. Sign Up TBD>

Volunteer for our Special Olympics Events this 2025-2026 School Year. Sign Up Here>

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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

MERCH

Mainspring Store> View Spiritwear Catalog>

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May 2025 – Mainspring Academy is so grateful to all of our volunteers who helped run another exciting Spring Special Olympics this year! All of our students worked very hard and gave their very best effort. We are so proud of them!

Special Olympics Soccer/ Track & Field Placements:

Group1
1st Place- Aiden Wilson
2nd Place- Ishmael Prendergast
3rd Place- Nathan Muzichuk
4th Place- Killian Neri

Group 2
1st Place- Dylan Russell
2nd Place- Juan Luis Valencia
3rd Place- Riley O’Rourke
4th Place- Henry Lek, Taliyah Flagler, and Evelyn Hughes

Group 3
1st Place- Ilan Sable
2nd Place- Noah Calhoun
3rd Place- Anish Sagi
4th Place- Austin Mouzon and Jeremiah Fershtman

Group 4
1st Place- Jada Graham
2nd Place- Olivia Boyd
3rd Place – Tyler Powderly
4th Place- Allan Blake

Thank you to our 2025 Miles for Mainspring Gold Sponsors! (Click each business to view their websites)


GOLD SPONSORS
Soccercity Tulsa
JSO District 1 Blue Bikes
Homespun Kitchen

UPCOMING EVENTS

• May 5th – May 9th – Teacher Appreciation Week
• Tuesday, May 13th – PAC Meeting 9:15am in the Cafeteria
• Wednesday, May 14th – Muffins for Mom (9:00-9:30/9:30-10:00) in School Common Area
• Thursday, May 15th – Tuition Due
• Monday, May 26th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Memorial Day
• Friday, May 30th – 12th Grade + Transition Class Graduations (3:00pm-4:00pm) in School Common Area
• Sunday, June 1st – 10 Annual Parent Participation Hours Due from Each Family
• Sunday, June 1st – (Quickschools) Summer Program Contract and Full Fees Due
• Tuesday, June 3rd – 9:15am PAC Meeting in the Cafeteria
• Wednesday, June 11th– Summer Splash Day
• Thursday, June 12th – Last Day of School and Early Dismissal
  
• Questions or missing any forms? Many questions and requests can be submitted in the Parent Corner of our website! More Information>

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Evelyn – May 2nd

Ms. Lana –May 3rd

Sadie B.-May 7th

Cree – May 11th

Juan Luis – May 16th

Ariel – May 19th

Ms. Sabrena – May 19th

Noah – May 22nd

Sam O.-May 24th

Dorian – May 25th

Ms. Sara – May 29th

Ms. Callie – June 3rd

Connor L. – June 4th

Kipling – June 15th

Turner – June 28th

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>

Tuesday, May 13th – PAC Meeting 9:15am in the Cafeteria

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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

Click to view the 2024-2025 Food Truck Schedule! >
(Beginning September 2023)


FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

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• TikTok
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March 2025 – Students participated in our first Donuts with Dudes event and enjoyed their visits with their fathers, brothers, and uncles!

Congratulations to Rene Ducksworth for winning the $1000 prize package for Miles for Mainspring 2025! Thanks to all of our participants and sponsors, we raised $5,125 towards the maintenance of adaptive enrichment programming at Mainspring Academy! Congratulations to ALL of those who completed the full 7-day challenge!!! If all 7 days was not your personal goal – maybe it was starting something new, doing something healthy, getting more fresh air, getting time for yourself, or healing from something difficult. Congratulations – We are SO proud of you, too. No matter what your reason, your support has made an impact on the educational experiences of our students.

Thank you to our 2025 Miles for Mainspring Gold and Silver Sponsors! (Click each business to view their websites)


GOLD SPONSORS
Soccercity Tulsa
JSO District 1 Blue Bikes
Homespun Kitchen

SILVER SPONSORS
Jax Decon
Moore’s Sand & Septic, Inc
Island Cove Behavioral Pediatrics
Garner Real Estate Team

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Thursday, April 17th – Special Olympics Soccer & Track/Field (10:00am)

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

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Brady – April 8th

Ms. Lisa – April 10th

Kayla- April 11th

Ashlyn – April 11th

Mr. Jonathon – April 16th

Vaughn – April 30th

 

 

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>

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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

Click to view the 2024-2025 Food Truck Schedule! >
(Beginning September 2023)


FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• YouTube
• Amazon
• Mail

February 2025 – Students enjoyed giving and receiving their gifts and learning about their friends for our annual Val Pal event!

Each class designed activities and crafts based on teacher-assigned themes for Black History Months, ranging from sports, jazz, and entrepeneurship, to Soul Food cooking, Black authors, and Black theater!

Walk 10K steps a day for 7 days (March 25th-31st, 2025) to support a adaptive physical fitness, music, and art programming for 65 special education students at Mainspring Academy. Jacksonville registrants who successfully complete their walks each day will be eligible to win a prize (valued at up to $200) in a daily raffle, and an $1000 grand prize package for completing all 7 days. #MakingMyStepsCount. Registration closes 12:00PM EST on Friday, March 7th, 2025. Register Now.

Thank you to our 2025 Miles for Mainspring Event Sponsors! (Click each business to view their websites)

PLATINUM SPONSOR
Hype Sports USA

GOLD SPONSORS
Soccercity Tulsa
JSO District 1 Blue Bikes
Homespun Kitchen

SILVER SPONSORS
Jax Decon
Moore’s Sand & Septic, Inc
Island Cove Behavioral Pediatrics
Garner Real Estate Team

BRONZE SPONSORS
Susan Murphy & Family for Noah Calhoun
Beaches Go Green
Junior’s Seafood Restaraunt & Grill
Carter Production Company
Terri Lynn Artistry
Cookie Cutter’s Haircuts for Kids
The Sander’s Team/ C2 Financial

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Tuesday, March 4th – PAC Meeting in the cafeteria at 9:00am
• Friday, March 7th – Last day to complete Intent to Re-enroll Survey for the 2025-2026 School Year
• Friday, March 7th– Last day to register for Miles for Mainspring. Register Here
• Monday, March 17^th – Friday, March 21^st – SCHOOL CLOSED for Spring Break
• Tuesday, March 25^th-Monday, March 31^st – Miles for Mainspring 7-Day Virtual Step Challenge
• Friday, March 28th – Donuts with Dad/Dudes

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

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Jace – March 12th

Benjamin – March 17th

Jean Daniel- March 18th

Griffin– March 20th

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, March 4th, 9:00am


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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

Click to view the 2024-2025 Food Truck Schedule! >
(Beginning September 2023)


FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

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• TikTok
• YouTube
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• Mail

January 2025 – Mainspring Academy is so grateful to all of our volunteers who helped run another exciting Winter Special Olympics this year! All of our students worked very hard and gave their very best effort. We are so proud of them!

Group 1
1st Place- Ishmael Prendergast, Killian Neri, and Benjamin Basye
2nd Place- Kipling Galustov
3rd Place- Jace Wilson
4th Place- Aiden Wilson

Group 2
1st Place- Katie Phillips
2nd Place- Joshua Horne
3rd Place- Juan Luis Valencia
4th Place- Taliyah Flagler

Group 3
1st Place- Sam Newman
2nd Place- Allan Blake
3rd Place- Grace Latimer
4th Place- Ilan Sable

Group 4
1st Place- Jada Graham
2nd Place- Ashlyn Arbogust
3rd Place – JJ Perez
4th Place- Austin Mouzon

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Tuesday, February 11th– PAC Meeting in the cafeteria, 9:00am
• Friday, February 14th– Val Pal Exchange Day
• Friday, February 14th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
• Monday, February 17th – SCHOOL CLOSED for President’s Day
• Wednesday, February 26th– Early Dismissal – Carline begins at 12:45, students must be picked up no later than 1:00

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

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Katie – February 3rd 

Ms. Sheri – February 6th

Jada– February 9th

Ms. Luisa– February 20th

Mr. Hayden– February 23rd

Allan – February 26th

Ms. Patty – February 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, February 11th, 9:00am


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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

Click to view the 2024-2025 Food Truck Schedule! >
(Beginning September 2023)


FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• YouTube
• Amazon
• Mail

December 2024 – Families celebrated the holidays during our World of Cookies event, where they tried cookie recipes from all around the globe prepared by parent volunteers. Each student visited with Santa and enjoyed holiday movies with their classmates! We are excited to see all of our students again and to continue into a wonderful 2025 at school!

UPCOMING EVENTS

• Tuesday, January 7th– Return to School
• Wednesday, January 8th – Winter Intercession Deposit Due
• Tuesday, January 14th – P.A.C. Meeting in the cafeteria, 9:00am
• Wednesday, January 15th – Tuition and Extended Care Due
• Monday, January 20th – SCHOOL CLOSED for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Friday, January 24th – Full Winter Intercession Fee Due
• Monday, January 27th– 100th Day of School
• Friday, January 31st – Special Olympics Basketball and Flag Football

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

MSA BIRTHDAYS!

Ms. Liz – January 5th

Ms. Dina – January 9th

Mr. Jason– January 15th

Killian– January 16th

Austin– January 23rd

Henry – January 23rd

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, January 14th, 9:00am

Special Olympics Basketball and Flag Football, Friday, January 31st (Below)

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>

FORECASTS

5-Day Pollen>

Daily Cold and Flu>

5-Day Asthma>

10-Day Weather>

Click to view the 2024-2025 Food Truck Schedule! >
(Beginning September 2023)


FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS

MERCH

Shop now until September 1st! >

• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn
• TikTok
• YouTube
• Amazon
• Mail