Contact the Special Education Department

Welcome to the Special Education Department. The purpose of our program is to give the students the additional assistance they need while still holding them to the high academic standards that Golden Valley High School embodies. We offer Resource assistance for those that need that extra push in their outside classes, Special Day Class 1 programs for those that need greater assistance in academic subject areas due to learning challenges, and a Special Day Class 3 program that focuses on helping students with Asperger's Syndrome. All of our classes are academically challenging while providing a smaller environment and additional assistance to maximize student success. Moreover, we have a specific focus on career and vocational paths that is highlighted in each of our programs, and this includes both traditional paths such as college or junior college and non-traditional paths such as apprenticeship programs, vocational schools, and internships. The main goal of our program is to build on the strengths of our students, help them learn ways around their difficulties, and to have them leave our school with a clear vocational path, an understanding of how to achieve their life and career goals, and the ability and desire to experience all that life has to offer.

SDC ENGLISH A Grades 9-12
5 Credits
This standards based English class provides instruction in the areas of decoding, comprehension, grammar, and writing skills. Decoding and improved reading skills will be strongly emphasized as students become proficient in comprehending both fiction and non-fiction material. Students are expected to participate in group and independent reading, complete daily assignments, produce essays and projects, and fulfill homework requirements.

SDC ENGLISH B Grades 9-12
5 Credits
This standards based English class will focus on reading comprehension and formal writing skills in order to prepare students for success in reading-intensive academic classes. Students will gain the skills necessary to transition to general education. Grammar and decoding skill instruction will continue. Students are expected to participate in group and independent reading, complete daily assignments, produce essays and projects, and fulfill homework requirements.

SDC READING Grades 9-12
5 Credits
This elective class focuses solely on reading, decoding, and comprehension. The program is designed to work intensively with those student that struggle most with reading and bring up their skills at an increased pace.

SDC MODERN CIVILIZATION A/B Grade 10
5 Credits
This core academic class covers world history starting with ancient civilizations and continuing through to modern times. The class is based on California academic standards with modifications to support a variety of learning styles and challenges.

SDC U.S. HISTORY A/B Grade 11
5 Credits
This core academic class covers the history of the United States from the origins of the native inhabitants to modern day. The material is based on California academic standards but presented in a mode to meet the needs of a variety of learning styles.

SDC AMERICAN GOVERNMENT Grade 12
This core academic classes covers the structures of American Government and the systems that are used to govern our nation. This class aligns to California State Standards and to graduation requirements. Instruction is differentiated to accommodate a wide variety of learners.

SDC ECONOMICS Grade 12
This core academic class covers the economic and business structures of our nation and address it’s role in the global economy. This class aligns to California State Standards and to graduation requirements. Instruction is differentiated to accommodate a wide variety of learners.

SDC BIOLOGY A/B Grade 10
5 Credits
This standards based class will focus on the major life systems. Students will review the following concepts: cells, classification, human body systems, reproduction, and ecology. Students will be required to read non-fiction material, produce assignments and projects, and participate in class discussions and activities.

SDC EARTH SCIENCE A/B Grade 9
5 Credits
This science class will focus on the standards related to natural world concepts. The following topics will be examined: minerals, weather, chemical relationships, the laws of science, and the solar system. Students are required to read non-fiction material, produce assignments and projects, and participate in class discussions and activities.

SDC PRE-ALGEBRA Grade 9-12
5 Credits
This standard based math class will focus on pre-algebra concepts. Instruction will focus on developing the skills necessary for success in algebra.

SDC ALGEBRA IA/IB Grades 9-12
5 Credits
This standard based math class will focus on preparing students to successfully complete the algebra requirement for graduation.

RESOURCE STUDY SKILLS Grades 9-11
5 – 40 Credits
This is a required elective course for all resource students. Students will receive support in comprehending core subject material while increasing their understanding of writing, reading, and math standards. Instruc tion will also focus on preparing students to perform successfully on academic assessments and standardized tests.

SDC4 DEAF/HARD OF HEARING Grades 9-12
This support program offers academic classes and assistance to students that are classified as DHH. Class offerings vary based on the needs of the population of student.

SDC5 – ORTHOPEDICALLY IMPAIRED Grades 9-12
This support program offers academic and life skills classes and support to students who are classified with orthopedic impairments. The programs, classes, and supports offered vary based on the individual needs to the students.

SDC7 ASPERGER’S PROGRAM Grades 9-11
Standard based academic core classes, in subject areas required for graduation, will be provided students in this program. These classes will be organized based on student enrollment and academic/subject matter needs. More information regarding this program is available by contacting the Special Education Department Chair.

SDC8 AUTISM PROGRAM Grades 9-10
This specialized program offers courses in core academic areas to serve the specific needs of students with high-functioning autism. More information regarding this program is available by contacting the department chair for Special Education.

SC/RS CAREER VISIONS Grade 11
5 Credits
Prerequisite: students must be cleared by Special Ed department Chair and Department of Rehabilitation. See SPED Dept chair for application. This vocational information class teaches students to prepare for life after high school. Topics covered include vocational interests and strengths, interviewing, resumes, work place skills, and job based economics. There are specific requirements that must be met in order to be a part of this class. For additional information about the requirements for this course or more information about the benefits and subjects covered please contact the department chair for Special Education.

Last Modified: October 23, 2008