SPECIAL EDUCATION
Last June’s graduation ceremony at Dorothy Boswell School in Ventura was filled with heartfelt emotions as students, faculty, families, and friends came together to celebrate a monumental achievement. One graduate, Anthony Moreno, embodied the spirit of the day. Known for his hardworking and fun-loving nature, Anthony was thrilled to reach this milestone. “I will miss everybody, but I look forward to seeing some old friends and making new ones,” he said. Schools with the Power to Change Lives Boswell graduations are especially meaningful because its students are in the final stage of their special education journey. The school serves young adults aged 18 to 22 with a variety of disabilities. Some have been in the special education programs offered by the Ventura County Office of Education for much of their lives. After leaving Boswell, students take a variety of paths that include enrolling in community college, entering the workforce, or attending adult day programs. Anthony’s mom, Rachel, beamed with pride on graduation day. She spoke passionately about the capabilities of students with special needs, The Ventura County SELPA collaborates with local school districts to provide a full range of special education services at no cost to local families. SELPA staff are committed to supporting the parents of students with disabilities as well as teachers and support staff. We provide administrative support, personnel development, program development and special programs and services. In addition, the SELPA collaborates with public and private agencies that serve people with disabilities of all ages. We are also proud to be co-leading a statewide initiative to expand the use of dispute prevention and resolution strategies that resolve conflicts without the need for lengthy and costly legal interventions. Learn more about the SELPA at vcselpa.org .
emphasizing that they are often underestimated. “Anthony is my special child, and he’s a great kid,” she said. “Some kids need more help than others, but they deserve respect like everybody else.” Anthony thrived at Boswell as a member of the student government. He excelled at giving school tours and embraced the opportunity to work at various job sites throughout Ventura. Most recently, he had a paid internship at Alejandro’s Salon in Ventura, where he enjoyed getting everything ready for customers. “It’s nice to save up some money,” he added with a smile. The impact of Boswell’s programs extends far beyond the classroom. They empower students to gain practical and functional skills while building confidence and independence. “We set them up to be successful adults, contributing not only to their families and our community but also warming our hearts with the great big smiles they give us each and every day,” said Dr. César Morales, Ventura County Superintendent of Schools, who attended the graduation. VCOE’s special education programs play a pivotal role in helping students like Anthony achieve their full potential. By fostering independence, building real- world skills, and promoting inclusivity, they are transforming lives and building brighter futures.
8 ● VCOE EDUCATION REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY
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