Adrian, MI – Earlier this week, students from LISD programs participated in a Christmas field trip to Miracle Meadows that was intentionally designed to be accessible, welcoming, and meaningful for every student and family involved.
The experience was led by Chris Dowd, a special education teacher who has spent years creating community-based learning opportunities that allow students to practice communication and life skills outside of the classroom. Building on previous outings, Chris envisioned a holiday experience where students could use their AAC devices to interact with Santa in an authentic, real-world setting.
After exploring several options, Chris connected with Miracle Meadows owners Annie and Jacque Schiller, longtime friends who immediately embraced the idea and offered to host the field trip at no cost. Known for their work with therapy animals and their understanding of sensory, physical, and communication needs, Miracle Meadows provided a space that supported students while offering families a setting where they felt welcomed and understood.
Although weather conditions required a change to the original plan, the team pivoted and created a flexible indoor experience that allowed students to move through activities at their own pace. Families were given the choice to participate in the experiences that best fit their child’s needs, keeping the focus on comfort, engagement, and enjoyment.
Throughout the day, students decorated cookies, enjoyed hot chocolate, explored a live stable display with animals, and spent time with therapy animals, including Irvine the donkey. Santa and Mrs. Claus, accompanied by Fluffy, a trained therapy dog, met with students individually in a quieter space designed to reduce sensory input. Each visit was personalized, with LISD staff and Miracle Meadows volunteers working closely together to support students and families.
Students also received thoughtfully selected gifts from Santa, including toys chosen through an Amazon wish list created to support communication goals. Vocabulary was practiced throughout November, preparing students to request specific items using their AAC devices. One moment that stood out involved a student independently using her device to request a ball multiple times, demonstrating how classroom learning carried over into a meaningful community interaction.
In addition to toys, each student received a personalized blanket with their name sewn on, generously prepared by LISD staff member Karen Coveart. Families were also gifted engraved charcuterie boards, generously provided by local community member Terry Johnston. The boards were created as a meaningful way to honor his late son and to give back to families and staff, adding an unexpected and thoughtful element to the day. Gift bags assembled by the Miracle Meadows team included stuffed animals, hot chocolate, and ornaments. LISD students also created ornaments that decorated the Christmas tree during the event and were later shared with families and volunteers as a thank-you.
The field trip was supported by a wide network of LISD staff, including Laura Myers, Peggy Papenhagen, Lisa Ritz, Karen Coveart, Marty Chapman, Betsy Olberg, Megan Karpinski, Lisa Meszaros, Amanda Rockwell, and Amanda Ream. Many additional LISD staff members contributed by donating toys or funds, and the LISD Speech Department selected Miracle Meadows as its annual holiday giving recipient, donating $250 to support the organization.
Following the event, staff reflected on the success of the day and the collective effort that made it possible. While the planning and execution required significant coordination, there was a shared sense of pride in seeing students confidently engage with their environment and families enjoy a community experience designed with intention.
For many families served by Young Children’s Services, community outings can be challenging due to sensory needs or communication barriers. This field trip helped strengthen connections between families and a community space where they felt accepted, while giving students meaningful opportunities to practice skills they are developing at school.
The Miracle Meadows Christmas field trip reflects the collaborative spirit of LISD and its community partners. It highlights how learning extends beyond the classroom and how thoughtful planning, flexibility, and teamwork can create experiences that truly meet students where they are.
[Full Photo Album from Event]