Source: SRVUSD
SRVUSD reinforces commitment to fostering partnerships of families of students with exceptional abilities to ensure every student thrives.
By Ilana Israel Samuels, Director of Communications, Family and Community Engagement, San Ramon Valley Unified School District
Danville, CA – San Ramon Valley Unified School District believes that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their abilities or challenges.
SRVUSD is a single-district Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) and operates a continuum of special education programs to meet the needs of students from birth to age 22. The SELPA has a Community Advisory Committee (CAC), with a purpose to improve and promote communication between schools, parents/caregivers, and public agencies to increase community awareness, facilitate parent education and support, and coordinate activities on behalf of children with exceptional needs. Annually, the CAC puts on the Bright Lights award program to recognize staff, students, and community members who go above and beyond (list of winners is below).
SRVUSD is unwavering in its commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment that embraces students with disabilities, ensuring they have equitable opportunities to thrive. By implementing comprehensive support systems, individualized learning plans, and accessible resources, the district strives to meet the diverse needs of every student.
“It is imperative that students with exceptional abilities have access to and receive an inclusive education experience,” said Dr. John Malloy, Superintendent, San Ramon Valley Unified School District. “Our special education programs and services are part of our Strategic Directions at SRVUSD and were created to foster empathy, understanding, and respect for diversity, and prepare all students for success.”
Bright Lights is an awards program established by San Ramon Valley Unified School District’s SELPA’s Community Advisory Committee (CAC) that celebrates this commitment to inclusive practices by recognizing staff, students, and community members who go above and beyond in support of our students with special needs. We were thrilled to celebrate these outstanding 2023-24 Bright Light Award winners on May 14, 2024, at a reception and at the Board of Education meeting:
Stephanie Huff– School Psychologist, Counseling Enriched Program at Monte Vista High
Stephanie Berman– Behavior Analyst, multiple sites
Kelly Crotti– Teacher, Walt Disney Elementary
Jenna Tooliatos– Resource Specialist, Los Cerros Middle School
Sushma Rathi– Teacher, Montair Elementary
Sarah Sanchez– Teacher, Infant Program at Hidden Hills Elementary
Simran Badwal– Teacher, San Ramon Valley High School
Angie Kojreka– Administrator
Ollie Frieson– Student Volunteer
Neil Chandran– Student and Community Partner
About San Ramon Valley Unified School District: Located in the San Francisco Bay Area, San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) is one of the highest-achieving school districts in California. With approximately 29,000 students, the district encompasses the communities of Alamo, Danville, San Ramon, and a small portion of Walnut Creek and Pleasanton.
SRVUSD has been recognized at state and national levels with many awards and achievements. The district is designated by AASA, The School Superintendents Association, as a Learning 2025 Lighthouse District because it serves as a model of positive change in public education and is committed to the whole child. Based on a foundation of academic excellence, SRVUSD’s work is guided by the district’s Strategic Directions, and broadening the definition of success so all students can thrive. The district maintains graduation rates above 96%. The Learner Profile outlines the competencies the district aspires for students to possess upon graduation, preparing students to be Critical Thinkers, Creative Contributors, Intentional Collaborators, Adaptable Learners, and Effective Communicators.
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