PVHS is an all-inclusive high school that supports the needs of each individual student. Students with special needs are supported through the special education program which includes eight special education teachers, two school psychologists, one full-time and two part-time speech and language teachers, a site behaviorist (BASIS) lead and a program behaviorist (BASIS) lead. The team also includes several special education assistants that serve in a variety of capacities. The school team works in conjunction with county and non-public agencies that provide additional supports to special education students.

 

PVHS supports the inclusion of special education students into general education classes. Special education teachers teach collaborative classes on campus, as well as direct instruction in the following special education classes: Reading and Writing Skills (RWS) 1, 2, 3, and 4; Essentials of Algebra A and B; Consumer Math; World History, US History, Government, and Economics; Life Science; and Guided Study. All students in special education are able to enroll in the Guided Study course to build study skills and to work on assignments for core courses. As part of students' IEP Transition Plans, college and career awareness goals and/or job coaching are included to help students prepare for post-secondary opportunities.

 

The Life Skills Center is designed to serve special needs students ages 18-22. The PVPUSD Life Skills Center strives to provide a high-quality service to our non-diploma track, post-secondary students. The goal of the program is to facilitate the student’s successful transition from high school into adult life within the community. The PVPUSD Life Skills Center focuses on the five essential areas derived from the Education Code which are key to a successful transition to adult life. These areas are addressed within the curriculum: Functional Academics Vocational Skills and Employment Community Based Instruction Independent Living Skills Recreation and Leisure.

 

Additionally, our Special Education department works closely with two student-run clubs, the Friendship Club and PV Social Scene, to provide fun lunchtime activities that engage and promote inclusion of the special education students in school activities.