New Howard T. Ennis School opens doors, bigger space provides additional learning opportunities

GEORGETOWN, Del.- “These kids deserve the world and I feel like in this space we got it,” Paraeducator Kristin Firle said.

Larger classrooms, treatment centers, and an all-inclusive playground are just some of the sites to see at the new Howard T. Ennis School in Georgetown.

Principal Melissa Kansak says the size of the former building didn’t match their needs to fully serve students. “A lot of our students do require specialized seating, they utilize wheelchairs, some utilize standers, and specialize equipment to move about the space,” Kansak said.

“So, you will see in our hallways specialized seating that’s in front of a smartboard. Staff are actually able to leave their classroom and go out into the hallway and partner with other classrooms.”

The school services students ages pre-k- 22 years old in Sussex County with severe disabilities. Kansak tells 47ABC that the State of Delaware fully funds the services the school provides.

Teacher of the Year Wendy Breedlove works with pre-school students who have Autism and tells us the new facility means new opportunities inside the classroom. “With our new curriculum, I’m pushing these students harder than I’ve ever pushed a group of kids before them because I have the materials and I have what I need to do that,” Breedlove said.

“We put a lot into these kids, but we get a lot back. Everyday!.”

Before student’s graduate, they’ll gain real world experience by working in shops like the Thirty Eagle located on campus so they can figure out what industries they want to go into. “We have the apartment, we have the thrift store, the bedroom where they can practice folding clothes and making a bed, and the business center where they can shred and laminate things,” Firle said

Kansak says that they also have partnerships with several organizations in the community that allow students the opportunity to gain real-world experiences with internships and other volunteer roles.

As these young learners are gaining essential academic and social skills, those we spoke with say they’re also beating the odds and creating bright futures. “It’s amazing what everyone can accomplish if you just have enough time and love,” Firle said.

We’re told the school gym and greenhouse are still in the works and are expected to be completed by the spring.

Parents will get a first look at the new facility during the first open house this upcoming Thursday January 12th.