News

PEP Honored for Embodying MLK’s Spirit, Teachings

At The Cleveland Orchestra’s annual program honoring the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Positive Education Program was recognized for its impact on the lives of children in Northeast Ohio. PEP received the 2019 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award – a recognition of the agency’s work in the spirit
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Philosophy & Methodology

Nearly a Half Century of Strengthening Minds With Heart

Positive Education Program’s founding nearly half a century ago by Dr. Rico Pallotta – a local educator known for his work with children with special needs – can be traced to a quest for values. If he were to launch an organization that served the region’s most challenging students and their families, Pallotta felt it
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Philosophy & Methodology

At PEP, Movement Matters

Movement matters. Yet, too often, society’s response to children with special needs is to isolate them from physical and social activities – a reaction that research shows could ultimately hinder healthy social-emotional development. Take running and football – physical activities typically not afforded to young people with complex developmental disabilities, autism, emotional regulation challenges or
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Philosophy & Methodology

What is The Sanctuary Model?

Over the years, PEP has worked with children and youth in Greater Cleveland who have experienced significant trauma or chronic stress – life events, for example, that could include abuse, neglect, loss of a loved one, having a debilitating illness, witnessing violence or bullying. The Sanctuary Model – developed by Dr. Sandra Bloom, a nationally
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