Brooks-Yates School closing, inclusion growing

In 2016, with only 12 students enrolled, Brooks-Yates School made a move from its location from Pickaway Street to Teays Valley Schools to consolidate space and better serve the smaller class size. Between then and now its student body consists of four students, one of which will graduate this school year. The size reduction has happened due to students graduating and from students transitioning back to their home school districts over the past five years. It is also worth recognizing that schools are making efforts to include all students and expand their continuum of services within their own district. We are especially proud of our four districts here in Pickaway County for their efforts towards inclusion. This was not the trend in 1961 when the school was first established.

We will be working with three districts, Logan Elm, Westfall and Teays Valley, to transition the remaining three students to their least restrictive environments. Although the segregated class will no longer be in existence, the support of the Brooks-Yates School staff will still be there for these students within their new classroom setting. A total of two intervention specialists and four educational aides will transition into positions to help support programs that will provide supports and services to all students with and/or without disabilities in their school district and community.

These supports and services will include but are not limited supporting and mentoring teachers and classroom staff in basic classroom interventions, structure, and curriculum modification or development. Creating a classroom of belonging that promotes community and the development of friendships and relationships for all students. Assisting schools in building independence with transition age youth as they journey into adulthood.

Brooks-Yates school currently serves 188 students through the Pickaway County Board of DD and continues to focus on inclusion and belonging. Teaching others how to navigate and change cultures to support all students is a top priority. Brooks-Yates would like to recognize and show appreciation for the time, hard work, and dedication of both staffs from the past and present that have been a part of the journey to inclusion. The community of Pickaway County has shown and continues to show support throughout the years of this growth and opportunity. Although the educational path looks different, Brooks-Yates is not gone as their staff continues to support students with disabilities. Brooks-Yates honors the end of the segregated classroom as it once served its purpose but also celebrates exciting new beginnings on a paved road to inclusion!