Courtesy of the Hollister School District:
Hollister School District Special Education Staff have gone above and beyond to make sure students can access learning opportunities during this unprecedented time.
“Never in my 17-year education career did I imagine that schools would someday be delivering instruction through computer, much more providing remote support for students with special needs. But the SPED teachers and specialists have rolled up their sleeves and dive in to create meaningful remote learning experience” said Gwen Baquiran, Special Education Director.
Staff have prepared learning packets stationed at school sites. Food and packet drop off is provided to families without transportation means.
Blended Platforms
When the District rolled out the Distance Learning Plan, teachers and specialists have prepared blended platforms such as synchronous, asynchronous and technology to ensure that students with special needs have access to learning. The blended platform enables the students to maintain the skills acquired when school was in session. The staff utilize online tools like Google Meet and Google Classrooms to interact with students.
“It allows the teachers for high level of engagement, for students to see each other, to deliver information and instruction in real time and be there as a support to both parents and students,” Superintendent Diego Ochoa emphasized.
The SPED Department has released a parent survey to take parent input on Distance Learning in an effort to improve services and supports. Survey can be access at t.ly/U8u1. To access online resources for students with special needs, please go to https://www.hesd.org/specialeducation.
