Whittier School offers educational programs for students in kindergarten through transition (ages 18-22). Whittier is a separate school setting for students in the moderate to severe range of disability who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and are non-diploma bound. Students who attend Whittier are significantly impacted by behavioral, communication, academic, sensory and/or social needs.
Whittier School provides a highly structured educational environment to support students in acquiring academic, social-emotional, behavior, independent living, and vocational skills. Individual behavior plans as well as school-wide positive behavior interventions and supports are implemented to support student behavior. Whittier's students also receive art instruction through SDUSD's Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) program and daily physical education classes.
Designated instructional services (DIS) are provided to students who have these services detailed in their Individualized Education Plan (IEP). DIS include, but are not limited to: Language and Speech Services, Occupational Therapy (OT), and Adapted Physical Education (APE).
Whittier School aims to develop a partnership between students, parents, staff, and community to prepare students on their pathway to their post-secondary goals. We are dedicated to develop a focused, long-term plan for student success. We also support the district's dedication in graduating students who are self-starters, technology competent workers, life-long learners, responsible citizens, and effective communicators. We are dedicated to ensuring each student receives access to curriculum and instruction aligned to prioritized standards.
Students at Whittier receive a certificate of completion and participate in transition activities to support their post-secondary goals. For students receiving a certificate of completion, the district's goal is to assist the development of functional academic and vocational skills that can transfer to an adult work programs or adult day activity programs. We want all students to complete 12th grade with the skills, motivation, curiosity and resilience to succeed and be prepared for their post-secondary goals in the area of education/training, employment, and independent living. These skills will enable them to participate in their daily living as independently as possible.