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Grass Valley, CA

Building Community for the Neurodiverse Population at Nevada Union High School

Grant Amount

$3,400

Year Awarded

2025-2026

Project Coordinator

Tracy Donadio

Grant Type

Individual

Local Association

Nevada Joint UHS Teachers Association

Focus Area

Inclusion and Special Education

About the Project

This project will create inclusive supports for neurodiverse students through the development of indoor and outdoor sensory-friendly safe spaces, peer-focused social events, and staff training on neurodiversity and inclusive practices. These safe spaces will offer quiet, calming environments where students can regulate and recharge during the school day, while events like game nights and community outings will foster friendships and a sense of belonging. These initiatives aim to foster connection, emotional well-being, and self-advocacy among neurodiverse students, whether or not they are formally enrolled in special education. The project also includes collaboration with families and community members to design spaces, inform practices, and strengthen support networks, ultimately building a campus culture where all students feel safe, understood, and empowered to thrive both socially and academically.

Meet the Project Coordinator

Tracy Donadio

I am a high school special education teacher at Nevada Union High School, where I developed and lead our site’s Neurodivergent Program. I support students in building life skills, career readiness, social-emotional development, and social communication skills. I previously served in school administration and spent two years as the Mild/Moderate Special Education Department Chair. I received CTE grant funding to help expand the reach of this program to more neurodivergent students across campus, ensuring greater access to inclusive, empowering educational opportunities. Passionate about biology, Thomas and Tatiana frequently integrate outdoor learning, local biology, and garden-based activities into their classrooms. With this grant, they look forward to further inspiring students to engage with nature and environmental stewardship of California’s unique flora and fauna

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