Department for Exceptional Children

If you had stopped into the woodworking lab at Westview in the Department for Exceptional Children just before winter break, you might have witnessed the creation of some beautiful handmade wooden Valentine’s hearts.

For most students, the importance of simply saying “hello!” to classmates every morning really can’t be overestimated. Making that connection with friends sets the tone for their entire day of learning. Now, with some students present in the classroom, and others working from home, teachers have to be creative to keep those small, yet vital, connections alive.

There's a world of guided options for exceptional young people ready to transition from high school to life and career. From Hospitality and Applied Skills and Work-Based Learning to Project SEARCH, BOCES 2 can help. Check out this presentation featuring all of our Transition Programs.

In the 6:1:1 physiology class at Westview in the Department for Exceptional Children, students learn about cells, homeostasis and the human body. Along the way, they also learn the importance of establishing and maintaining meaningful relationships.

Katie McElhaney, who teaches a Medically Fragile 6:1:1 class located at Brockport’s Hill Elementary School, was recently recognized with the 2020 Helen Bach Moss Memorial Better Beginnings Award celebrating gifted elementary teachers.

How many of us are ready to face new challenges, or brave enough to boldly taste new foods? Learning to enjoy new experiences is becoming second nature to the 6:1:2 students at Westview in the Department for Exceptional Children.