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Taft Community School’s Therapeutic Learning Center Earns Acclaim for Student Support and Excellence in Special Education

Taft Community School’s Therapeutic Learning Center Earns Acclaim for Student Support and Excellence in Special Education

Taft Community School’s focused actions and support through its Therapeutic Learning Center (TLC) program are being applauded by San Mateo County education officials. 

The school recently received an award of appreciation for their support of students with disabilities from the San Mateo County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) and the Community Advisory Committee (CAC). 

The specialized TLC program at Taft targets student social-emotional well-being and self-regulation skills as an addition to the individualized academic services and support students may receive. 

On hand to accept the award at the ceremony, attended by nearly 200 people, were TLC teacher Charlene Dela Pena and principal David Camarena. Both were praised for their work and dedication to the students.

Teacher Charlene Dela Pena engages in a game of Uno with a student during sensory time, designed to stimulate and engage a child’s senses

Teacher Charlene Dela Pena engages in a game of Uno with a student during sensory time, designed to stimulate and engage a child’s senses


The Special Education Parent Teacher Association of Redwood City (SEPTAR) was also recognized for their service to students and families. SEPTAR board president Elena Levina and board secretary Michelle Gayliardi accepted the award on behalf of the group. 

SEPTAR actively works to collaborate with Redwood City School District Special Education Services, and offers student support through community and family resources, informative parent education presentations, student enrichment programs, and social activities. 

The awarding agency, San Mateo County SELPA, is a regional consortium of school districts, charter schools, and County Offices of Education. 

Together, RCSD and the San Mateo County SELPA, focus on early intervention and support disabilities, aiming to deliver high-quality special education programs and services effectively.

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