The Intensive Needs Program at Burr and Burton Academy and the Northshire Delegation of VT Special Olympics have had the distinct privilege of collaborating with Hildene Farm in the dene, goat dairy, gardens, and greenhouse. The farm experiences provided through these Hildene venues and programs have offered our neurodivergent students and athletes invaluable opportunities to develop essential life skills and job-readiness abilities.
The job skill development, career exploration, and social skill-building available are truly unmatched. Our participants gain not only transferable skills they can apply to future employment, but also meaningful personal and social competencies — self-confidence, self-awareness, time and space management, teamwork, appropriate social interactions, and a clear understanding of behavior expectations. The dedicated teams at the dene, in the gardens and greenhouse, and at the goat dairy invest the time to learn each participant’s strengths and challenges, apply strategies and positive supports used within our school program, and consistently create positive and empowering learning experiences.
Animals are remarkable teachers, too. Our participants connect with the farm animals in unique and deeply meaningful ways, strengthening their communication skills through those interactions. Some of our non-verbal students, in particular, show notable improvements in expressive communication while engaging with the animals. For our sensory-seeking participants, activities such as grooming, carrying hay, filling water troughs, and caring for small animals provide both comfort and fulfillment.
Offering responsibility and a sense of ownership is especially impactful for our neurodiverse community, who may not always have opportunities to take on meaningful roles. Being part of something valued by the broader community fosters pride and purpose. One powerful example is a former BBA student — now a volunteer — who harvested over ten pounds of kale at the dene garden. Delivering it to the BBA cafeteria for the salad bar filled him with joy and immense pride in his contribution to both the garden and the school.
Another meaningful tradition is the Lighted Tractor Parade. Each year, our Special Olympic athletes experience profound pride and accomplishment as they walk or ride with the Hildene tractor and wagon — a testament to the dedication, creativity, and enthusiasm of the Hildene Farm team. This event is eagerly anticipated and stands as a highlight of their year.
As a community of educators and civic partners, we are deeply grateful for the opportunities, collaboration, and life-changing experiences offered by Hildene Farm. For more than 15 years, this partnership has enriched the lives of our neurodivergent students and athletes, providing joy, purpose, and a strong sense of belonging through real-world learning. We look forward to continuing this meaningful collaboration and to the many life lessons yet to be shared through the incredible work of the Hildene Farm team.
Written by Maegen Benasich, Student Accessibility Services at Burr & Burton Academy
