The Bridgewater-Raritan High School Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) club was the host to its annual Valentine’s Day party on February 14  in the large cafeteria.  

The CEC club’s mission is to create a more inclusive environment for peers with special needs and help them build relationships and social skills. They provide a safe and welcoming environment for students who may struggle to build friendships and feel comfortable at school.

Club member and senior Harrison Fromberg spoke on what he had gotten out of the club.

“I’ve met so many new people and created many friendships that I wouldn’t have had the opportunity to if I wasn’t a part of this club,” he said.

They sponsor six annual events where students with disabilities and peers come together to make crafts, play board games, eat snacks and socialize with each other.

The six events that are hosted include Halloween, Winter Holiday, Valentine’s Day, St Patrick’s Day, Spring Autism Awareness and end-of-the-year parties. 

During their Valentine’s Day party, students enjoyed making heart-shaped crafts, bracelets and cards while listening to fun music and eating delicious snacks. More importantly, they spent time with their friends in a comforting and calming environment. 

Co-President Caileigh Mahovetz shared how the club has made a positive impact on our school environment.

“I think the club benefits everyone involved. It has made me personally a better person by making me a more empathetic, compassionate and patient person and it helps my peers by allowing them to meet new people, make more friends and just have fun. Seeing the smiles on everyone’s faces and seeing the positive impact the club has feels very rewarding,” she said.

If any students are interested in joining the Bridgewater-Raritan High School CEC club, they can contact the teacher advisor Ms. Carey Marago or join the Google Classroom using the code: “jtfy3n2”.