Berkeley Parents Network: Special Education Programs in Local Schools

Berkeley Parents Network

Special Education Programs in Local Schools

Berkeley Parents Network > Reviews > K-12 Schools > Special Education Programs in Local Schools

Questions

Better school district for special needs kids?
Oakland Private school for possible learning delays
Best school district for special ed?

Special Ed in Specific Districts

Related Pages

Better school district for special needs kids?

Nov 2007

My son has global developmental delays, hypotonia (low muscle tone), and PDD- NOS (basically ''autistic like''). He is currently receiving 21 hours of ABA therapy a week, plus one hour each of speech, OT, and PT. He will be 3 in July, and I'm trying to figure out which school district we should be in at that point.

We are currently in the West Contra Costa Unified School District. I am interested in hearing from parents who have experience with special education in this district, as well as surrounding districts (Albany, Berkeley, Alameda, etc.). It would be especially helpful to hear from parents whose children are on the autism spectrum, but I would love to hear from parents of children with a range of disabilities as well.

What are the strengths of each district? Weaknesses? Are some better for preschool but less desirable for grade school, or vice versa? Are certain districts easier to work with than others? Do any offer augmentative communication classrooms? Etc, etc. Please share any and all experiences. I really appreciate your insight! This is a complicated maze to navigate, and it seems to be never-ending.

Thanks in advance! Amber

Hi- The answer to your question is, hands down, Castro Elementary School, in El Cerrito! The special needs children are fully integrated into the mainstream classes, and both teachers and aids alike know how to create a beautifully run full-inclusion program that benefits ALL of the children at the school, special needs and mainstream alike.

This unique program has been 20 years in the making, and is a model of what full inclusion can really be. Other schools say that they have full inclusion, but from what I have seen, only Castro understands what this really means, and has been able to enact it in wonderful and powerful ways. The mainstream children really learn how to treat all people with respect and honor--something that they carry with them throughout their whole lives.

This wonderful school is a true jewel in an otherwise problematic district. I urge you to visit this school, and inquire about this program. It's not a fancy school, and unlike some other schools in El Cerrito, it has not been rebuilt. But, hidden behind those walls is an example of what every school should strive to be like. A proud parent at Castro

After trying several schools, we landed at Castro Elementary School, in El Cerrito. Many people had told us that this was the school to be at, but it took us a while to actually try it out. We thought that the ''nicer'' schools might be better. Boy, were we wrong! Our child also has autism, and this school has been a life saver for us (and our daughter). The teachers are excellent, and really know how to work with all kinds of children. I cannot believe that this school does not get more press; people seem to find it by word of mouth. Frankly, it's the best kept secret in West Contra Costa!

Good luck! We hope to see you there next year! Third time is the charm!

Oakland Private school for possible learning delays

Oct 2005

Wondering if anyone has experience with Redwood day school or Park day school or Archway. I am looking for a school that will pay enough attention to my child so that any problems are caught early. Right now everything seems fine, but my child is adopted and there is a high rate of attention deficit disorder in adopted children. All three of these schools are nearby and seem progressive etc. Or are there other schoools in Oakland you think would be particularly good. Also anyone know where I can get my child tested to see where she is with regard to learning skills etc,i.e. average, gifted, behind. thanks, J.F.

Reviews received:

St. Paul's Episcopal School

Best school district for special ed?

Feb. 2004

My husband and I are committed to sending our little boy to public school, and--like most parents--we want ''the best'' school district for him. The only twist is, our son receives special-ed services from OUSD. Are there any special needs parents out there who moved away from Oakland because they wanted a SELPA with a fatter budget? Or more experienced therapists? Sweeter facilities? Mainstreaming with extreme sensitivity and support? If so, how is it working out for you? We'd consider any area, from the Peninsula to Marin to east Contra Costa county. Thanks, Mom of Soon-to-be Kindergartner

I would suggest that you contact a support group for the type of disability your child has. Family Resource Network, an offshoot of Bananas, has an office and newsletter that can connect you with other parents dealing with the same issues. Their phone number is (510) 547-7322. I have a 13-year old son with Asperger's syndrome and I gave up on public education 4 years ago. However, every disability is different just as every child is different and you have to do what you feel is right for your child. Good luck. Nancy

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