At San Dimas High School, many students in our adult transition class have the opportunity to learn everyday adulting skills. Between ages 18 and 22, these students acquire essential knowledge of cleaning, cooking, social interaction, and other relevant skills.

In 2013, Ms. Cruz was hired when the class was brand new to the district; before that, it was a county program. “This program has been my baby that I got to build from the ground up,” teacher Cruz said. This program partners with the University of La Verne, allowing these students to expand their learning. Instead of serving coffee to the SDHS staff twice a week like they used to, they have had to adjust their availability. They are able to serve our staff on a weekly basis, and then are at ULV for half of the week. Besides coffee, they also make tea and Italian sodas. Recently, they have been talking about making frappuccinos as well.

They learn a variety of adulting skills such as functional academics, social skills, self-care/hygiene, work experience, and so much more. Like most classes, this one has its struggles and achievements. “My students have a wide range of learning abilities and disabilities, so instruction needs to be differentiated to meet all of their levels,” teacher Cruz said. Some achievements they have had are going to work jobs independently, gaining their driver’s licenses, and attending college. After the students complete the program, they earn a certification of completion. Recently, at Food Frenzy, the students were selling musubi, which they hand made.

This program is crucial to these young adults because it helps transition them into independent adult life. It helps ensure that they are getting the resources they need to succeed. One message Ms. Cruz would like to share with our school about her program is, that she has felt the love from Saints on campus. She states, “Our students, staff, and admin have been truly supportive and inclusive to our program and our ‘Specials’,”.

It’s important to be supportive and inclusive, especially as  students, to show respect for everyone’s equal opportunity to learn and grow. Welcoming and encouraging these students allows our school community to be strengthened. Reminder: always be kind and inclusive so we can make a welcoming school environment instead of a divided one.