Great Hearts Special Education: A Community of Learners

At Great Hearts, we believe that the dignity of every human being forms the cornerstone of our mission. This commitment compels us to create a community that wraps around all students, cultivating an environment where every scholar can thrive—including those in our special education programs.

Our approach ensures that special education professionals are not just a supporting part of the school, but an integral component of our faculty and broader school culture. These educators collaborate daily with general education teachers and administrators, a partnership that is vital in providing the tailored services and supports our special education scholars need to succeed.

Great Hearts upholds the understanding of humanity through the lens of relationships. Collaboration is not simply a strategy; it is the foundation of our success. Teachers partner with other teachers, parents, and administrative teams to ensure every child receives the best possible support. This partnership extends beyond the classroom, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and mutual respect.

“We love to say that we partner,” shared Yvette Cooper, a Great Hearts Headmaster. “Partnership comes from teachers to teachers and parents with the teams as well.”

This collaborative nature is particularly evident during Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) meetings, a foundation of our special education process. According to Mary Boggess, a special education coordinator, “My favorite part of what I get to do is the ARD meetings. Because I have found here at Great Hearts, these meetings are true collaborations. They are discussions. So, you have our teachers who are really great at our content. They know our curriculum backwards and forwards. And then you have the parents who have the intimate knowledge of their child.” Together, they build an educational plan that enables the student to thrive.

Parents play an indispensable role in our special education program. Their insights and active participation are vital to creating a supportive and effective learning environment for their children. Chantel Mendoza, a Great Hearts parent noted, “The collaboration we’ve had with our special education department at Great Hearts has been phenomenal. It really supports fostering a relationship where our student can truly thrive. Where we can get communication back and forth. It really creates a great educational environment for our student.”

At Great Hearts, our special education program shows the beauty of community and collaboration. Teachers, administrators, and parents work as a unified team to provide the critical help special education students need to flourish. It is this collective effort that makes Great Hearts a truly exceptional place for all scholars.

If you have a passion for fostering growth and building relationships, consider joining our Great Hearts community. Together, we can continue to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Apply today at https://careers.greatheartsamerica.org/special-education/

Do you have a story or know of a story that you would like to see featured at Great Hearts?  Please contact jason.moore@greathearts.org.