North Joshua Elementary showcases functional academics program; students Avery Johnson and Sydney Lamar recognized

Lead teacher Victoria Bardwell introduced North Joshua Elementary’s functional academics classroom and described the program’s focus as preparing students with additional support needs for practical daily life skills.

Bardwell said the program “is designed to meet the unique needs of students who may require additional support in their journey” and emphasized instruction that blends basic reading and math with life skills such as telling time, managing money and practicing social interactions. She said the skills are intended to have “immediate, meaningful applications” beyond the classroom.

Bardwell asked staff and students to demonstrate classroom activities and introduced two students: Avery Johnson and Sydney Lamar. The board heard that Avery Johnson is in her first year in functional academics, that her parents are Jamie and Jeffrey Johnson, and that Avery was part of Joshua’s Special Olympics bowling team and plans to participate in basketball. The presenters said Sydney Lamar is in fifth grade, enjoys singing, cooking, dancing and gaming, and is described as “spirited and creative.”

Bardwell and staff thanked families for partnership and invited the board and public to view a short classroom video and student demonstrations that illustrated coin- and tactile-based learning activities used to teach life skills. The program presentation was part of the board’s workshop recognitions and informational items; no formal action was taken.

Ending: The presenters closed with a recognition and thanks to families and staff for their partnership.