The Benedictine School is one of only 22 nationwide to earn accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES) for its school program. This is the second time Benedictine has earned this accreditation; the first was in 2017. The accreditation process is based on a study of compliance to fifty standards covering process, procedures, and practices critical to the functioning of a special education setting. It also includes a comprehensive site-review performed by a team of special education experts.

“Benedictine’s dedicated staff work compassionately 24 hours a day with our students. I continue to be honored to be among such an impressive group and program,” commented Benedictine Education Director Julie Hickey. “And this accreditation is a testament to their efforts as well as that of our volunteer Board of Directors and leadership team.”

The accreditation is an intensive process that reviews standards in the following categories: organization and administration, finance, planning and evaluation, personnel records, facilities, confidentiality, student records, instructional process, individualized education program (IEP), curriculum, classroom management, behavioral affective practices and medication administration. To see the complete list, please go to https://www.napsec.org/ncases-accreditation

For more information about the Benedictine school program, please contact the admissions coordinator at [email protected].

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit service provider supporting close to 200 children and adults living with developmental disabilities and autism. Benedictine’s mission is to help the individuals they support achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence.

The year-round educational program is one of only 22 nationwide to earn a four-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine also has 4 student group homes located in Caroline and Talbot Counties. 

Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers Meaningful Day and job training services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, who live in the community, and in 18 Benedictine adult group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties.

Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce. Benedictine also collaborates with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) to provide training programs and job search services for students in the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools and adults living in the surrounding community.

Benedictine serves individuals from all over the state and Mid-Atlantic region and is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest nonprofit employers with 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Godfrey’s Farm held its 3rd annual Blueberry Boogie 5K Run/Walk with 215 participants walking or running in the race. This year’s event raised $17,000, which included a matching grant from Denise Kaczmarczyk and John Johnson, to support Benedictine’s programs that provide crucial services for moderate to severe developmentally disabled children and adults.

“With another great race behind us, I find myself so grateful for the relationship we have created with Benedictine,” stated Lisa Godfrey. “The energy, the excitement, the community, the positive impact we see from this day, makes it an easy decision to support their great work.”

Runners, walkers and guests enjoyed the sounds of Red Sammy, a Baltimore based band, and Godfrey’s homemade apple cider donuts and blueberry scones at the finish line. Awards were presented to the participants by Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director.

Sponsors of the event included Godfrey’s Farms, Richard Brusca Nursery, Harbor Sales, Willard, Cross Street Market, Keany Produce & Gourmet, Tammy’s Cool Things, Graul’s Market, Willey Farms, Langenfelder Pork, Zen Denton Yoga and Wellness, Peoples Bank, Bearing Construction, Inc., and Everbloom Ockels Acres. Fresh fruit at the finish line was donated by Teddy Bear Fresh.

For more information about Godfrey’s Farm, please visit www.godfreysfarm.com.

For more information on Benedictine and how you can support their mission, please contact Claudia Cunningham, Chief Advancement Officer at 410 634 2292 or [email protected].

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit service provider supporting close to 200 children and adults living with developmental disabilities and autism. Benedictine’s mission is to help the individuals they support achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence.

The year-round educational program is one of only 22 nationwide to earn a four-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine also has 4 student group homes located in Caroline and Talbot Counties.  

Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers Meaningful Day and job training services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, who live in the community, and in 18 Benedictine adult group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties.

Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce. Benedictine also collaborates with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) to provide training programs and job search services for students in the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools and adults living in the surrounding community.

Benedictine serves individuals from all over the state and Mid-Atlantic region and is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest nonprofit employers with 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Benedictine is proud to announce the graduation of eight students from its school on June 8^th. The ceremony took place on the campus in Ridgely. Graduates gathered after the ceremony for a reception with family, friends and staff to celebrate. For Benedictine’s students, this graduation is a culmination of many years of hard work overcoming challenges to move forward and live their best life.

“This year, I had the honor and pleasure of teaching three individuals from the class of 2023,” commented Danielle Poore, Transitional Functional Academics teacher. “Seeing my students grow and reach their greatest potential is my biggest goal for each of them.” One of her students, Ben, received the 2023 Student of the Year Award.

“Ben is a hard working young man who has touched the lives of many students and staff members at Benedictine. He came to us when he was 13 and over the last 9 years through his hard work has gained independence and developed skills to serve him in his life beyond Benedictine. He loves to be involved in things and has participated in many local community events and school activities. You will often find Ben drawing in his room, or listening to music in his down time. He loves to create new things and is always willing to lend a helpful hand.” Ben was recently employed at Tenchi Restaurant in Greensboro.

For the past seven years, Nick Fox, a Functional Academics teacher, has taught recent graduate N’Faly. Nick commented, “N’Faly entered my classroom at age 14 and it was his first placement away from home. He is filled with passion and a sense of humor that has made him a pleasure to teach throughout his time at Benedictine. He loves singing songs and dancing to Motown.” Fox went on to share, “But what N’Faly loves most is his family and he was always asking when his next visit would be. On graduation day, I saw a large group of his family and friends in attendance all wearing matching t-shirts in celebration of N’Faly’s accomplishments. It is great to know he is going back to live in his childhood home supported by caretakers and surrounded by his large and loving family.” N’Faly won a senior award for speech and music and received the superlative award for class clown.

Students with developmental disabilities can join the Benedictine school as early as age 5 and graduate when they turn 21. For more information about the Benedictine school, please contact Admissions and IEP Coordinator at [email protected].

For more information about Benedictine’s job-ready workforce, please contact Adult Services Director at [email protected]. For ways that you can support Benedictine and its mission, please contact the Chief Advancement Officer at [email protected].

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit service provider supporting close to 200 children and adults living with developmental disabilities and autism. Benedictine’s mission is to help the individuals they support achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence.

The year-round educational program is one of only 22 nationwide to earn a four-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine also has 4 student group homes located in Caroline and Talbot Counties. 

Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers Meaningful Day and job training services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, who live in the community, and in 18 Benedictine adult group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties.

Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce. Benedictine also collaborates with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) to provide training programs and job search services for students in the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools and adults living in the surrounding community.

Benedictine serves individuals from all over the state and Mid-Atlantic region and is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest nonprofit employers with 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Marking its 21^st year, the Benedictine Foundation Chrome City Fundraiser will take place on Sunday, July 30^th. Known as one of the largest rides in Maryland, this annual event draws more than a 1,000 riders and brings together over 2000 people to Benedictine’s Ridgely campus in support of its mission.

“Chrome City has always been an event that our students and adults look forward to every year. But what makes this event more special is that it gives the community, that extends well beyond our Eastern Shore region, the opportunity to join us on campus to support our mission,” stated Benedictine Executive Director Scott Evans.

Motorcycles, hot rods, classic and custom cars are all invited to participate. Everyone that registers will receive an official Chrome City t-shirt, lunch from Famous Dave’s and a day of fun and entertainment with door prizes, car contests, live music and more. Don’t have a classic car or motorcycle – you can still join the festivities.

Please note that this will not be an escorted ride this year. We encourage friends and families to gather together to ride to Benedictine. Day-of registration locations this year will be at the Outback Steakhouse in Annapolis (9-10am) and at the Benedictine campus in Ridgely (9:30-11am). Participates are encouraged to register online prior to the event for a discounted fee of $35. You can register online HERE or call 410.634.2292. Event takes place on the Benedictine campus from 10-2pm.

If you are interested in sponsoring Chrome City, please contact Benedictine by July 14^th to ensure that your name/logo is on the official Chrome City t-shirt. Sponsorships can be found HERE or contact Ashley Downes at [email protected] or call 410. 634.2292. Visit Benedictine at www.benschool.org.

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit service provider supporting close to 200 children and adults living with developmental disabilities and autism. Benedictine’s mission is to help the individuals they support achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence.

The year-round educational program is one of only 22 nationwide to earn a four-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine also has 4 student group homes located in Caroline and Talbot Counties. 

Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers Meaningful Day and job training services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, who live in the community, and in 18 Benedictine adult group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties.

Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce. Benedictine also collaborates with the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) to provide training programs and job search services for students in the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools and adults living in the surrounding community.

Benedictine serves individuals from all over the state and Mid-Atlantic region and is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest nonprofit employers with 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Godfrey’s Farm 3^rd annual Blueberry Boogie 5K Walk/Run, to take place on Saturday, June 17^th, will once again benefit Benedictine. Last year’s event raised over $15,000 which included a matching gift from a generous donor that has pledged to match the funds raised again at this year’s race.

“The excitement from last year’s race was amazing!” commented Lisa Godfrey.“Working with Benedictine just feels right, because we can visibly see the impact each dollar raised has right here, locally. Students from Benedictine have been visiting our farm for many years. We love to see the excitement they bring and the kindness of their caregivers. This made our choice to support Benedictine an easy one!”

Last year, a generous Benedictine supporter pledged a matching gift and has once again pledged to match the funds raised in this year’s race. “We have supported Benedictine for many years and thought this was a wonderful way to give and bring recognition to both Benedictine and the partnership with Godfrey’s Farm,” commented Denise Kaczmarczyk.“We are so happy that Benedictine has been selected again as the beneficiary of the race and we look forward to seeing the results!”

Festivities at the event will include live music by Red Sammy, an American Folk Rock band, plus Godfrey’s homemade apple cider donuts and blueberry scones at the finish line, prizes and more. All race participants will receive an event shirt.

Registration starts at 8AM. Race begins at 9AM. Rain or Shine. Healthy Kids Run (10 and under) begins at 8:55AM.

Godfrey’s Farm is located in Sudlersville, Maryland. To register, please go to https://runsignup.com/Race/MD/Sudlersville/BlueberryBoogie5KRunWalk. Registration is $30 until June 1^st and then $35 after and on the day of the event. Sign up as a team of 5 or more and get a discount on all the registrations.

For more information about Godfrey’s Farm, please visit www.godfreysfarm.com.

Benedictine is a non-sectarian, nonprofit organization helping children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential. For more information on Benedictine and how you can support their mission, please contact Claudia Cunningham, Chief Advancement Officer at 410 634 2292 or [email protected].

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit organization supporting close to 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence. Benedictine’s year-round educational program is one of only 26 nationwide to earn a two-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers employment and vocational services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, in the community and those who live in Benedictine’s group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce and collaborates with the collaborates with the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools to provide services to their students through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Program. Benedictine is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest employers with over 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Benedictine celebrated the winner and all the nominees of the distinguished Sister Jeannette award during a luncheon earlier this spring. The award was established in 2012 by the Benedictine Board of Directors in honor of Sister Jeannette, who served as Benedictine’s leader for over 30 years. The annual award recognizes an employee who exemplifies Benedictine’s values of Hospitality, Dignity of Work and Compassionate Caring.

This year’s award was given to Sharon Walbert, Adult Services House Counselor. Among the long list of accolades, it was noted that she works tirelessly to provide the adults she supports with opportunities to increase their skills, to be involved in the community, to stay connected with their families, and to be as independent as possible. Sharon works at several of Benedictine’s 18 adult group homes and she willingly fills in for night shifts when needed.

Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director, commented at the award luncheon, “This is truly one of my favorite things to do at Benedictine as it provides an opportunity to stop and reflect on the incredible work that is being done here every day. We celebrate those that go above and beyond in making a difference in the lives of the students and adults living with developmental disabilities and autism. I applaud all the nominees!”

The nominees includedGalan Anderson, School Vocational Liaison and Team Leader; Steve Ebell, School Education Assistant; Karen Gibson, Payroll Coordinator; Jody Mitchell, School Teacher; Danielle Poore, School Teacher; Corina Schline, School Nurse; and Marie Truitt, Adults Services House Counselor. All the nominees were presented with a framed image of Sister Jeannette’s “Rules To Live By” which includes, “respect the dignity of those you help by giving in quiet and hidden ways.”

Sharon Walbert was presented with the Sister Jeannette award at a celebratory luncheon that recognized all the nominees. Pictured (left to right): Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director; Sister Mary Agnes, Benedictine Board of Directors; Cecelia Duckworth, Emeritus Board Member; Sharon Walbert, Adult Services House Counselor and Winner of Sister Jeannette Award; Charley Mills, Benedictine Board of Trustees President.

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit organization supporting close to 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence. Benedictine’s year-round educational program is one of only 26 nationwide to earn a two-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers employment and vocational services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, in the community and those who live in Benedictine’s group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce and collaborates with the collaborates with the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools to provide services to their students through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Program. Benedictine is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest employers with over 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Lieutenant Governor Aruna Miller toured the Benedictine campus as part of the new administrations first 100 days in office. The tour was conducted by Benedictine Executive Director Scott Evans and Assistant Principal Stephanie Franklin. Benedictine leadership team and board members, local officials, supported adults, students, and parents also had the opportunity to meet with the Lieutenant Governor.

“Benedictine is critical to providing quality and enriching support to Marylanders with moderate to severe developmental and intellectual disabilities and autism,” commented Lieutenant Governor Miller. “The driving mission behind the Moore-Miller administration is to leave no Marylander behind, which is why it was an honor to spend the 100th day of this administration at Benedictine, celebrating its important work to serve supported individuals from early childhood through adulthood.”

The Lieutenant Governor’s tour was conducted on Benedictine’s school campus in Ridgely, Maryland. The campus includes student classrooms, residential suites, vocational training spaces, and recreational facilities. Adults that are supported by Benedictine also utilize many of the campus amenities. The original school and residential suites were built in the early 1960’s and a master plan – Transforming a Campus to Transform Lives – has been developed to address obsolescence, safety, and health issues of the current and future student population that attend school and reside on campus. The first phase of the project is to renovate and construct new residential suites for the school-age population, a new nursing and kitchen facility, and new traffic access improvements.

Photo: Lieutenant Governor Miller Tours Benedictine on 100th day in office. Pictured (left to right): Claudia Cunningham, Benedictine Chief Advancement Officer; Anthony Casey, Ridgely Town Commissioner; Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director; Stephanie Franklin; Benedictine Assistant Principal; Larry Porter, Caroline County Commissioner; Aruna Miller, Maryland Lieutenant Governor; Rebecca, Benedictine supported adult; Sr. Mary Agnes, Benedictine Board of Directors; Greg Hviding, Benedictine Board of Directors and supported adult; April Frankton, Benedictine Chief Financial Officer; Jenn Kerwin, Benedictine Board of Directors and parent; Charley Mills, President, Benedictine Board of Trustees and parent; Ade Laditan, Benedictine Senior Director, Adult Services. Photo credit: Chris Dorr 

“I would like to thank Lieutenant Governor Miller for visiting Benedictine and meeting with the students, staff and the adults we support,” commented Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director. “I also want to thank the Moore-Miller administration for adding capital funds to this year’s budget for Benedictine’s new student residential facility.  This shows their commitment to Maryland students with moderate to severe disabilities and we are very grateful for their support.”

The visit concluded with a special delivery by supported adult, Greg, who presented the Lieutenant Governor with a gift.

For more information on Benedictine and how you can support its mission in serving the developmentally disabled, please contact Chief Advancement Officer, Claudia Cunningham, at 410 634 2292 or [email protected].

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit organization supporting close to 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence. Benedictine’s year-round educational program is one of only 26 nationwide to earn a two-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers employment and vocational services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, in the community and those who live in Benedictine’s group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce and collaborates with the collaborates with the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools to provide services to their students through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Program. Benedictine is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest employers with over 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Benedictine will be holding its annual Spring Gala fundraiser, themed “An Evening In Casablanca,” on Saturday, May 6^th at the Trident Aircraft Hangar in Easton. This important fundraiser benefits the students and adults living with developmental disabilities and autism that Benedictine supports. Families, staff, community members, and businesses are all invited to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year.

“Each spring we look forward to our gala where we celebrate the accomplishments of the students and adults we support, and the dedicated staff who help them reach their greatest potential,” stated Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director. “We cannot achieve our goals alone, so this year we will share some stories about our community business partners and families who help us fulfill our mission.”

“An Evening In Casablanca” includes the “Here’s Looking At You, Kid” cocktail reception followed by “Round Up The Usual Suspects” for dinner, a live auction, and awards ceremony. Benedictine’s“Dignity of Work” video will debut, showcasing partnerships with local businesses and how the Benedictine students and adults bring value and enthusiasm to the workplace. The evening’s festivities will continue with desserts and dancing in the unique setting of the Trident Aircraft Hangar.

“The gala is an important and fun celebratory event for the community, families, and staff. It raises critical funds that support Benedictine’s vital work of providing the best care and services for the students and adults clients we serve, helping them learn, grow and achieve their greatest potential!” commented Claudia Cunningham, Benedictine Chief Advancement Officer.

Gratitude is extended to the Benedictine families and community members that support Benedictine’s Spring Galaalong with business sponsors including Easton Utilities, Tri-Gas & Oil, Trident Aircraft, Barstow’s Heating and Cooling, NRG Indian River, Cox Graae&Spack Architects, Momma Maria’s catering, Attraction Magazine, Tidewater Times, and Tred Avon Players.

To purchase tickets to Benedictine’s “An Evening In Casablanca” Spring Gala, click HERE or contact Ashley Downes at 410.364.9613 / [email protected].

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please contact Caroline Bauerle, Director of Development, at 410.369.9612 /[email protected].

Contact the Tidewater Inn by April 5^th at 410.822.1300 to get a discounted rate on your room reservation. https://tidewaterinn.com/

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit organization supporting close to 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence. Benedictine’s year-round educational program is one of only 26 nationwide to earn a two-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers employment and vocational services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, in the community and those who live in Benedictine’s group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce and collaborates with the collaborates with the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools to provide services to their students through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Program. Benedictine is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest employers with over 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Adedapo Laditan has joined Benedictine, a service provider for developmentally disabled and autistic children and adults, as the Senior Director of Adults Services. In this role, Laditan provides leadership to all aspects of the Adult Services program including management and fiscal sustainability. Benedictine’s Adult Services program serves over 90 adults that live in Benedictine owned and managed group homes or as participants in a day-only program.

“I am honored to have joined Benedictine. I see this as a great opportunity to carry on the work that is being done here in support of Benedictine’s mission of hospitality, dignity of work and compassionate caring,” stated Laditan. “My passion for supported individuals, their families, and the staff that work in this field has grown over the years. I have served in roles as a Direct Support Professional (DSP), house manager, program manager, and most recently as the Director of Quality Enhancement at the Regional Office of the Developmental Disabilities Administration, Eastern Shore.”

​​Benedictine’s Adult Services program serves adults 21 years of age and older and includes residential living accommodations in 18 group homes located on the Eastern Shore and Anne Arundel county. Adult Services manages the Meaningful Day program which is responsible for providing opportunities for participants to develop skills and seek employment, along with a personal enrichment program, and community engagement opportunities. These services are managed through Benedictine’s Easton Office employment resource center and are also open to individuals living with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the surrounding community.

Laditan shared his excitement about the vast program opportunities Benedictine offers the adults it supports especially in the area of job development. “The adults we serve bring a great spirit of enthusiasm to the workplace and they look forward to going to work and engaging with their community. We provide our job seekers skills in interviewing and problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and are trained in specific job related responsibilities. Benedictine currently collaborates with organizations in Talbot, Caroline, Anne Arundel and Queen Anne’s counties and is always looking to partner with more.” Laditan encourages businesses to reach out to Benedictine to learn more about its trained workforce and how they can bring value to their organization.

For more information on Benedictine, please go to www.benschool.org. You can reach Adedapo Laditan at [email protected].

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit organization supporting close to 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence. Benedictine’s year-round educational program is one of only 26 nationwide to earn a two-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers employment and vocational services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, in the community and those who live in Benedictine’s group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce and collaborates with the collaborates with the Talbot, Queen Anne’s, Caroline and Dorchester County public schools to provide services to their students through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Program. Benedictine is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest employers with over 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.

Benedictine has been awarded a Maryland Capital Grant of $1.5 million from Governor Hogan’s FY’23 Budget. These monies will be used to fund construction and engineering costs associated with building a new student residential facility on Benedictine’s school campus located in Ridgely, Maryland.

“Receiving this Maryland Capital Grant for Benedictine’s new student residential facility is crucial in our efforts to provide a homelike setting for a student population with significant sensory sensitivities that the current building, nearing the end of its useful life, does not accommodate,” stated Scott Evans, Benedictine Executive Director. “Securing the funds needed for this project will have a huge impact on the population we support.”

Benedictine’s student demographic has significantly changed since the existing residential space was built in the 1960s. Now, over 80% of the students supported are moderately to severely autistic. Each suite will be equipped with multiple recreational and sensory areas for the students to access along with an updated dining area and a state-of-the-art infirmary that will accommodate these students.

Benedictine is a nonprofit service provider, not a private school and no students’ families pay tuition. Most of the students come from school systems throughout Maryland, and it is only one of five organizations in the state offering residential and special education facilities for students with developmental disabilities and autism. Operating on a year-round basis, the Benedictine School offers highly individualized special education programs which meet the specific needs of each student.

The Maryland Eastern Shore Delegation was instrumental in helping Benedictine secure the Maryland Capital Grant. This included Senators Hershey and Eckardt, and Delegates Arentz, Jacobs, Ghrist and Western Shore Senators Guzzone and Zucker.

About Benedictine:

Benedictine is a non-sectarian nonprofit organization supporting more than 200 children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism achieve their greatest potential and highest level of independence. Benedictine’s year-round educational program is one of only 26 nationwide to earn a two-year accreditation from the National Commission for Accreditation of Special Education Services (NCASES). This program includes home-like living and learning options on the Ridgely, Maryland campus, for children ages 5 to 21 who come from Maryland and surrounding states. Benedictine’s Adult Services program offers employment and vocational services for transitional youth and adults, ages 22 to 70+, in the community and those who live in Benedictine’s group homes in Caroline, Talbot, and Anne Arundel Counties. Benedictine’s Easton Community Services & Training Center prepares the adults it serves to enter the workforce and collaborates with the Talbot County Public Schools to provide services to their students through the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) Program. Benedictine is one of the Eastern Shore’s largest employers with over 350 employees. For more information, visit www.benschool.org.