The cup of coffee you might enjoy at Luxemburg-Casco School District is much more than that to some students. Spartan Coffee is one of the many ways the district bridges the gap between its special education students and the general population. The program has a dozen students that grind, brew, and serve coffee throughout the high school to teachers and other staff members on Tuesdays. Supported by High School Special Education Teacher Morgan Cherney, Speech-Language Pathologist Sadie Mleziva, Occupational Therapist Sue Parker, and Green Bay’s Luna Coffee Roasters, the students not only raise money for future endeavors but are also able to work on their employability skills like communication, scheduling and more. Students get involved with the special education department through the Best Buddies program. It pairs students with intellectual disabilities with peers as they do activities in and out of the classroom. Director of Special Education Tara Zeal says she is thrilled with the support the special education program and its kids get daily.

The Luxemburg-Casco girls' basketball team will also spotlight the special education department and the Best Buddies program. Head girls’ basketball coach Taylor Bredael-Schmidt and her team will do a joint fundraiser with their opponents at their game against Oconto Falls on November 29th. A 50/50 raffle, a “Minute to Win It” challenge, and the Spartan Blend coffee sales will go to support the special education departments at the two schools.