Last week the Sage Park Middle School (SPMS) community gathered to celebrate the culmination of the 10-week Go Baby Go cluster, a powerful example of how our students are living out the values within Windsor Public Schools’ Instructional Core Wheel—combining critical thinking, peer collaboration, and social responsibility to solve real-world problems.
Spearheaded by Mrs. Megan Rickis, SPMS Technology and Engineering Education Teacher and dedicated advisor to the Technology Student Association, this interdisciplinary cluster provided students with a unique opportunity: designing and modifying ride-on cars for toddlers with mobility challenges.
Go Baby Go, a nationally recognized initiative, empowers children ages 0–3 through mobility and social development by adapting ride-on vehicles to meet their specific physical needs. Over ten weeks, SPMS students became true engineers of empathy—developing customized modifications that enhanced safety, accessibility, and functionality.
Key car modifications included:
- 🔌 Electrical Enhancements: Rear kill switches and rewired controls for easier use.
- 🛠️ Structural Supports: PVC frames for stability.
- 🧷 Safety Features: 5-point harness systems for secure seating.
The event was made possible thanks to the collaboration and support of several champions:
- Mrs. Liana Jorgensen, Principal of SPMS, who leads with a culture of excellence and acceptance.
- Mary Cristofaro, Director of Pupil and Special Education Services, whose vision and funding helped bring this initiative to life.
- Alysha Seickel, Windsor Public Schools Physical Therapist.
- Jennifer Rodriguez-MacClintic, CCMC Physical Therapist, Go Baby Go affiliate, and SPMS parent.
- Dr. Michele Dischino, CCSU professor and founder of Go Baby Go CT.
“Watching our students use their interdisciplinary skills to serve others was an unforgettable moment,” said Principal Jorgensen. “They weren’t just modifying toy cars—they were changing lives.”
To learn more or get involved, contact Megan Rickis at mrickis@windsorct.org.
#weareWINdsor 👐🏽