Individual Instruction
Where students with IEPs find the extra support needed for success.
Christian, grade 12
"Having extra help in my classes has helped me significantly pass my classes because when i'm ever need help or stuck on something I can ask for one-on one help with assignments and extra time on my assignments if I need extra time."
Parent Feedback:
I just wanted to say "Wow!" [My student] is really understanding math for the first time and I can't believe what I am seeing and hearing. You are really working miracles! At the start of the quarter, I emailed the Sped team that there was no way he could do even 10% of this and now he's doing 100% of it. I'm so impressed with the work you've done with him and I wanted to say THANK YOU so much for all your hard work getting through to these kids. You are amazing!
Meet the teachers:
Ms. Barquin
Mrs. Davis
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Mrs. Desrocher
Mr. Grissen
Hi! My name is Sally Barquin and this is my third year teaching at West Hills. I was previously an elementary school counselor for 3 years. I am the Support Teacher in Integrated Math 2 and Statistics. I teach SAI IM2 Intervention as well. I love being a SPED teacher and having strong relationships with my students as they go through their high school careers. I like cats, music, the outdoors, rock climbing, and food.
Mr. Hartsuyker
Hello, I am Helen Davis and I teach Guided Studies and SAI English 3/4. I also support College Prep Biology and
wood shop.
Hello! My name is Stephanie Desrocher and I'm new to West Hills this year, though it's my 8th year teaching and my 12th year in the field of Special Education! I currently support social science classes and teach a guided studies class. I love being part of the Wolf Pack and helping my students every day!
My name is Doug Grissen. I am a Special Education teacher. I have been teaching for 27
years (23 of those at West Hills)! I currently teach Foundations of Algebra, Consumer Math, IM Support Class and
support IM 1C.
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Mr. Knopp
Ms. Haskin
Ms. Howarth
Hi, I'm Mr. Hartsuyker and this is my third year at WHHS. This year, I support Physics and Chemistry and teach a Guided Studies class. I'm always willing to support students in any academic area, but especially enjoy teaching math and science.
Hello everyone! My name is Marissa Haskin and this is my third year teaching at West Hills High School. I previously taught at Helix Charter High School for 5 years and have been in the district for over 10 years. I am a Special Education teacher and I support 12th grade English as well as teach SAI English (different grade levels), and upper grade guided studies. Additionally, I am the ASB Director. Hope to see you around!
Hello!!! My name is Jenny Howarth and I am new to West Hills this year. This is my 8th year teaching Special Education. My assignment this year is being a co-teacher in Biology and Chemistry. I love my students here, and they are the daily reminders of why I do what I do! My hobbies include hiking and exploring nature, along with trying new restaurants.
Ron Knopp has been teaching at West Hills since 2001 and in the district since 1996. He currently teaches students with moderate disabilities and serves as the Department Chair for the Mod/Severe half of the Individual Instruction (Sp.Ed.) Department. You might see him in an English, Math, Reading, or Life Skills class. He looks forward to meeting and welcoming you to the Wolfpack!
Mrs. Maxwell
Hello, I am Heather Maxwell and I Co-Teach 12th Grade Government and Economics, 9th Grade Geography, and 11th Grade US History.
Mr. Rutledge
My name is Don Rutledge and I am the Mild-Mod Department Chair. I started coaching at West Hills in 1989 and became a Special Education teacher in 1995. I teach SAI English for 11th and 12th grades and support 10th and 12th grade English.
Mrs. Tropiano
Hello! My name is Shayla Tropiano and this is my 4th year teaching at West Hills High School, and 13th year as a Special Education Teacher. I teach Real World Reading & Math, Modified PE, Healthy Living and On Campus Work Experience.
Ms. Webber
Hello! My name is Ms. Weber and I am an Individual Instruction teacher. I teach 9th graders this year in SAI English and Reading. I am also a co-teacher for Geography and English 1C. I love teaching at West Hills and look forward to learning and growing with my students and families. I am in WL1 if you want to stop by!
If you have questions about our Mod/Severe program, email Ron Knopp:
If you have questions about our Mild/Mod program, email Mrs. Maxwell or Mrs. Davis:
Best Buddies
Club
West Hills is celebrating its 18th year with a Best Buddies chapter from the same international organization. Our club facilitates and promotes the formation of friendships and fun activities between persons with and without intellectual disabilities. Best Buddies is one of the many ways we promote an inclusive environment for all West Hills' students in a positive and lively way.