Ventura County Office of Education operates two Special Day Classes located on the De Anza Middle School Campus in Ventura.
These two classrooms accommodate students 11-14 years of age / grades 6th-8th. Instruction focuses on functional skills designed to increase students' independence in all domains of life.
The curriculum is comprised of the following areas (domains):
Academics, based upon State Standards, are taught within these domains so students learn functional skills that maximize their independence in the future. A functional mobility component to the curriculum is available for students with physical disabilities to develop the skills of sitting, standing, and walking while participating in their school activities. A strong emphasis is placed on teaching the student appropriate behaviors and on improving communication skills. Instruction is designed to meet the individual needs of each student throughout the school day, including recess and lunch periods.
Student interaction with general education peers is emphasized and facilitated in both a formal and informal manner. Some students attend general education classes daily. Most of our students are integrated into the student body for assemblies and special events. Students are instructed in the community each week and use public transportation regularly.