iExcel Program Adjusts to COVID Restrictions

For students at SHS who require an alternate high school structure, the iExcel program is amazing. Divided into two cohorts for students ages 14-18 and ages 18-22, iExcel provides programming to support special education students who have social, emotional, or behavioral needs. Students typically spend 75% of their day in a space where they can access the appropriate supports and services. Starting slightly earlier than the rest of the high school, students in iExcel begin their school day at 7:45 am and end at 2:15 pm, making their school day the same length as the generalized population but allowing for a schedule that fits their needs.

The impact of COVID-19 on schools was a difficult adjustment for all. In particular, many students in the iExcel program benefit from hands-on learning. When the structure of the program needed to be adjusted, iExcel teachers worked together to make it happen. According to special education teacher Gail Varrasso, “It’s almost like asking a construction worker to do his job remotely.” iExcel focuses on breaking down jobs into skills, which students can apply in the workforce. If this year wasn’t impacted by the coronavirus, students would be going out into the community to learn and develop their skills. “With the virus, none of that could happen, which was challenging,” commented Varrasso.

To welcome the fall season, students in the iExcel program are working on “The Pumpkin Project.” To show their thankfulness, students shopped for pumpkins and plan to write a word of hope every day. Varrasso explained, “Seeing what they’re thankful for makes us think about the things that we are all thankful for. It’s really easy to get into a negative place with the Coronavirus, but we’re trying to think of it as a time to look at our lives differently.”

Special education teacher Julie Meredith cultivates a feeling of pride among the iExcel students. Nick Mathews, who is known as a kind and helpful member of the program, says his favorite day is “Takeout Fridays,” when students order lunch from their favorite restaurants. Trying food from the best spots in the Scituate-Cohasset area helps build a bond among the students. Brigid Coleman, a hardworking student, says she enjoys Wednesday book clubs most of all. “We are reading Island of the Blue Dolphins, and I love it a lot!” she remarked.

Especially this year, with social distancing and other restrictions, many students outside the iExcel program may not hear about how amazing it is to be a part of this cohesive group. Coleman says there’s one thing she wants people to know: “We love being in the iExcel program at Scituate High School.”