How teachers empower students with disabilities

By Gehenna N.

Through innovative programs and dedicated staff, CATS teachers ensure that every student receives the support they need to thrive academically and personally.

Two key figures in this initiative are Ms. Ortiz, an English and special education teacher, and Ms. Beltran, the alternative curriculum teacher, who shared their insights on the school’s efforts to support students with disabilities.

Ms. Ortiz is passionate about making educational material accessible and understandable for all students.

“I make sure to try to make the material as easy to understand as possible, providing different ways for the materials to be accessed,” she explained.

This includes not just verbal instructions but also step-by-step guidance and other supportive measures.

An important program at CATS is the co-teaching initiative, now in its second year. In this initiative, teachers from core classes like English and math teach alongside special education teachers.

Ms. Ortiz describes it as a powerful approach, particularly in English classes.

“With the right supports and having the right pairs, it’s very powerful to have two teachers in the classroom. It’s been really good to be able to help in English,” she notes.

This method allows for more individualized attention and support, significantly benefiting the students.

However, challenges remain. “One main struggle is that students have multiple classes focused on English and history, which can be overwhelming. It’s important for them to have fun electives to give them a break,” says Ms. Ortiz.

She emphasizes the need for more resources and staff to provide adequate support.

“Public schools always need more resources. What we really need is more people and mental support,” she adds, highlighting the ongoing efforts and the desire for greater investment in students.

Ms. Beltran oversees the alternative curriculum, providing to students who require more tailored support.

“Our kids meet the same standards but at different levels. We use a specific curriculum geared towards them,” she explains.

Her approach involves working with students in small groups, customizing lessons to match their learning styles.

One of the notable programs Ms. Beltran mentions is the transition to Career and Technical Education (CTE) after completing their certificate of completion.

This program prepares students for various careers, such as construction, gardening, and mechanics, and allows them to take classes at a college level.

Support in Ms. Beltran’s classroom is hands-on and adaptive.

“I have a student who is not able to communicate verbally, so I use communication boards,” she shares.

The school also provides practical support, such as rocking chairs for students who need them.

“Ms. Greene and Mr. Roque always check on my kids to see how we’re doing and if we need anything,” she adds, illustrating the school’s commitment to its students’ well-being.

Both teachers have seen the positive impact of CATS’ initiatives on their students and themselves.

Ms. Ortiz reflects on her growth since starting her career at CATS, learning to better support students and their families.

“I’ve learned a lot about what students in this community need and how I can be a support not just to the kids but also to their families,” she said.

The efforts of Ms. Ortiz, Ms. Beltran, and the entire staff at CATS highlight a school community dedicated to empowering students with disabilities.

Ms. Beltran shares an exciting new initiative for the upcoming year: her students will be selling “Birthday Grams” to classrooms at CATS. She believes this will be a fantastic way for students to connect, have fun, and develop new skills.