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SY24-25 Self-Contained Classrooms 

Classroom Name

Grade Level

Description

Behavior & Education Support (BES) 

Email:

DCPS.BES@k12.dc.gov 

Grades 3 through 12 

The Behavior Education Support (BES) classroom supports students with severe emotional and behavioral disorders. We understand that every student is different, so we provide support based on each student's individual learning and behavioral needs. The classroom focuses on helping students learn about their emotions and develop positive social skills.  

Communication & Education Support (CES) 

Email: 

victor.young@k12.dc.gov (PS/PK and K-2) or julianna.araujo@k12.dc.gov (3-5 & Secondary) 

Grades PS/PK through 12 

The Communication and Education Support (CES) classroom helps students with language, sensory, and communication needs.  We provide visual aids, communication resources, and targeted teaching methods to support the learning needs of students. The classroom also works on independence and daily living skills. Students receive instruction using a modified curriculum.  

Early Learning Support (ELS) 

Email: victor.young@k12.dc.gov or julianna.araujo@k12.dc.gov 

Grades PS/PK through 2 

The Early Learning Support (ELS) classroom supports our PK to second grade students with complex learning needs. Students in this classroom may have delays in cognition, communication, social emotional, motor and adaptive skills. Students in this classroom may have medical needs or use medical devices such as a G-tube. Students receive instruction using the general education curriculum. 

Independence & Learning Support (ILS) 

Email: Anna.Chirighin@k12.dc.gov 

Grades 3 through 12 

The Independence and Learning Supports (ILS) classrooms are made to help students with disabilities do well in school. They use special teaching methods, adjusted lessons, and focused help. These classrooms are for students who have challenges with learning and daily skills. The goal is to help them grow in their studies, learn important life skills, and become more independent. In ILS classrooms, students work on different academic goals that help them build important skills for everyday life, like talking with others and preparing for future jobs. Teachers and specialists work together to make personalized plans that fit each student's strengths and needs. This helps students make progress in their studies, social skills, and life skills. ILS classrooms focus on being supportive and personalized.  

Medical & Education Support (MES) 

Email: Natalia.Houston@k12.dc.gov 

Grades

PS/PK through 12 

The Medical Education Support (MES) classroom helps students with complex medical needs learn and grow safely. There is always a nurse in the classroom to help with any medical needs during the school day. We use special teaching methods for each student’s unique learning style. Our team works closely with the student’s doctor to make sure all medical needs are met at school. Our main goal is to create a safe and healthy environment where students can learn, grow, and get the medical care they need to succeed. 

Specific Learning Support (SLS) 

Email: Crystal.Millington@k12.dc.gov 

Grades 3 through 12 

The Specific Learning Support (SLS) classroom helps students with complex learning needs in areas such as but not limited to executive functioning, process, and academic skills. The staff work closely with general education teacher to support instruction and curriculum alignment.  

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