Please click here to view the information presented by Mr. Eaton

Q: Are there any updates to our inclusionary school model?

A: We have welcomed and transitioned all students to Blackwell who live in our boundary.  All our students who previously attended special education Learning Center programs now attend Blackwell.  To prepare, we’ve participated in some building wide and student specific training, modified our academic schedules to include inclusion/intervention blocks of time twice per day. These blocks of designed to be able to provide small group and student specific supports in and outside of the classroom at times when new learning is not taking place.  This helps guarantee that all our students can be present for core instruction.  We will continue to seek ways to support all our students at Blackwell.

Q: What sensory supports are available to students.

A: Each classroom has variety of sensory supports for specific student needs.  Each learning space also has “calm down” corners where students can go to reset if needed.  We are using common language, providing common comfort kits, and teaching the Zones of Regulation in all our classrooms.  This will help our entire school community better understand that everyone needs support at certain times with emotions. There are common tools we can all use and know we have available across our school.

Q: Are we planning for Disability Awareness Month?

A: October is Disability Awareness Month.  We will provide resources for teachers including classroom resources, a curated children’s books list, and sharing Zones of Regulation with our families.

Q: Do we provide sensory accommodations at school events?

A: For the past few years, we’ve made an effort to provide equitable opportunities for students to participate in all school events regardless of sensory needs. This has included low sensory options at PTSA events and special seating and noise buffering at school events. This is part of our regular processes when planning events.