Classroom 14
Room 14 is a school-age, self-contained classroom ranging from Kindergarten to Grade 2. We utilize techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis (individual visual schedules, individual instruction, least to most prompting, forward and backward chaining, and task analysis) throughout our school day to assist in the acquisition and generalization of academic and social skills. In addition to these skills, there is also a large focus on developing self-regulation skills and coping skills. Other curriculum strategies such as Handwriting Without Tears and Touch Math, as well as music and arts and crafts, are infused to help enhance and individualize our program.
Angie, Taylor, Rebecca, Kaycee, Melissa
Room 14 Team
Taylor, Angie, (student) Chris, Rebecca, Melissa
Our recent stories.....
3.4.26 Scientific Tools
Students in our room had the chance to explore some real scientific tools this week! Ms. Rebecca brought in a telescope, and students took turns looking out the window to observe the perimeter of our landscape. They spotted birds, and even a deer! Along the way, they learned how to adjust the telescope’s settings and viewfinders while answering questions from staff about what they saw.
Next, everyone joined together at the table for more exploration. Ms. Rebecca produced a food thermometer. Students learned how the tool measures temperature by testing it in different conditions—first in room-temperature water, then hot water to watch the numbers rise, and finally in ice to see them drop.
Hands-on learning like this sparks curiosity, builds observation skills, and introduces our kiddos to the tools scientists use to understand the world. The engagement and excitement around the table showed just how powerful experiential learning can be.
1.27.26 - Healthy Food Project!
We love healthy food at Crossroads – but some of our students have a hard time trying new things. It can be challenging to get kids to expand their pallet, but that didn’t stop Room 14! They had a healthy food project that got their students excited about trying foods that taste good AND make them feel good. Its hands-on activities like these that allow our students to learn skills they will use for the rest of their lives. Great job R14!
12.19.25 Santa’s Visit!
We ended up a fun and lively Spirit Week here today with a visit from Santa and Elf. All of the students got presents, and we are deeply thankful to Toys for Tots Capital Region for these amazing gifts.
We also are thankful to Elf (Diane Rusch), Santa (Steve Oill) and photographer, Samantha Bailey for their volunteerism!
12/1/2025 A Visit from Moonbeam and Carol
As part of our Giving Tuesday celebration, we were thrilled by a visit from Moonbeam, a flat-coat lab, and Carol, her owner.
Moonbeam, aged four, is certified as a Therapy Dog by Therapy Dogs International, and her training shows. Gentle and sweet, she loves children, and our students responded with delight to her kisses and wagging tail.
This was our first visiting pet this year and we can’t wait to see Moonbeam and Carol again, soon.
Something for our Animal Friends 10.24.25
We had so much fun carving our 2 pumpkins this week!
But the learning didn’t stop there! After enjoying the carved pumpkins in our classroom for a few days, we set them out on the lawn outside of our classroom for our animal friends. When squirrels, rabbits, and maybe even deer come to enjoy, we will be able to watch them from our window.
10.17.25 Smoothie Success
In Room 14, we had a blast making smoothies during Healthy Food Program time! Students took turns adding bananas, dairy-free milk, ice, and — for those who can tolerate it — a little whipped cream on top. Each student got to explore the ingredients with their senses, practice turn-taking, and help blend their creation.
For us, activities like this are an important part of helping our students expand their eating repertoires. Many children with us have strong preferences or aversions to certain textures, tastes, or smells. Through fun, low-pressure experiences like this, they can build comfort with new foods, develop sensory tolerance, and even discover new favorites!
Every small step — from touching a banana to taking that first sip — is progress worth celebrating.
10.9.25 A Trip to the Sensory Wall
Room 14’s kiddos enjoy the Sensory Wall, and taking a walk to visit it is always a happy thing. Here, Ms. Angie and one of our little guys are making cheerful sounds on the xylophone section of the wall.
10.3.25 Play with Friends.
At Crossroads, while individualized learning and one-to-one sessions are at the heart of what we do, we also know how valuable group socialization and free play are for our students.
Here, our Room 14 students came together on the playground with our friends in Room 13. With staff joining right in, students are not only having a blast but also learning essential play and interaction skills. Every laugh and game is building friendships and confidence!
8.7.25 Making Sandcastles
Our students explored a hands-on science and sensory project by making a special compound for building sandcastles. Using glue, contact solution, baking soda, and sand, they measured, mixed, and shaped their putty. A couple of the boys didn’t like the feel of the sand and confidently used their words to ask for “no sand” — a wonderful example of communication skills in action!
R.14’s Math Group 7.27.25
Puddle Play Day! 6.11.25
Rainy days can bring the best kind of fun—just ask our students! With all the recent rain, this classroom took the opportunity to gear up and splash around in the puddles. The children had a super blast jumping, stomping, and exploring the wet wonders outside. Sometimes the best play is the messiest—and this joyful outdoor time brought big smiles and unforgettable moments. Check out the video to see the fun in action!
Wiggly Worm Fun in the Classroom! 5.7.25
Our classroom has been diving into all things worms! From learning about the worm life cycle and identifying body parts, to hands-on fun like a worm race, students are gaining knowledge through curiosity and play. Their excitement and interest are helping them build science skills in the most delightful way!
Check out our video!
Room 14 Got Appled! 4.15.25
Our students recently received a big surprise — they got appled! When Ms. Megan announced the apple, staff from all over the building came to cheer and say “YAY!”, providing lots of social praise. Here, you can see why! Everyone in the room had been doing an amazing job: working hard, listening to teachers, staying safe, and being kind. What a fun and special way to celebrate great choices and teamwork! 🍎
Future Scientists in the Making 3.19.25
By Jacee Leight
We are having some bubbling Fun by creating our own lava lamps!
In Room 14 we love mixing fun with learning! Recently, our kids got the chance to become little scientists by making their own lava lamps with just a water bottle, oil, water, food dye, and a fizzy tablet. The results were MAGICAL! and educational.
This hands-on activity isn’t just about watching cool bubbles float—it’s a great sensory experience that helps children practice motor skills, explore cause and effect, and engage with different textures. This activity was a perfect chance to play while learning about how liquids and solids interact.
It’s not just science—it’s fun! Watching the bubbles rise and fall sparked curiosity, encouraged social interaction, and gave kids the opportunity to experiment and problem-solve. Plus, it’s an easy project you can try at home for endless fun and learning!
Searching Signs of Spring 3.12.25
A gorgeous couple of days for our area resulted in most of the snow being melted making the courtyard accessible again. What better way to spend a few hard-work-won minutes than a break outside to search for signs of springs.
For these kiddos, this means searching for bugs, specifically. Signs of plants coming back to life were also in the search.
While sprouts nor insects were not discovered in our butterfly garden beds today, we rest assured that it won’t be long. On the other hand, the enjoyment of our little crew today was the best sign of spring we could ask for. Sprouting interest in nature, seasons, developing enjoyment in exploration and inquisition, and the smell of the fresh air made it a search worthwhile.
A Sticky, Sweet Sensory Experience in R.14! 2.24.25
Room 14 recently explored a fun (and very sticky!) sensory activity—making edible playdough! Using a can of frosting, confectioners’ sugar, and food coloring, the class created a squishy, colorful dough that was safe to taste.
Most students enjoyed the sensory experience, rolling, squishing, and shaping their creations. However, not everyone was a fan of the sticky texture, which made for some great opportunities to work through new sensations with support from their teachers.
By the end, the teachers agreed that while it was a fun and creative activity, it might not be one they repeat anytime soon! But trying new things is always valuable, helping our students build flexibility and explore different sensory experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
