The school's use of nonverbal and verbal communication strategies has made it a finalist for the Victorian Education Excellence Award for Outstanding Inclusive Education.
The award accompanies a grant of up to $25,000 which would be used to advance the school’s future goals.
The choice in the way information is delivered across the specialised school is thoroughly developed and includes a range of strategies including the use of visual aids.
Verney Road School principal Angela Buxton nominated the school’s teachers and support staff for their three years of tireless contribution in making the school's communication inclusive.
“We have students with a wide range of communication needs so this program directly allows all students to communicate with each other and the broader community,” Ms Buxton said.
She said winning the award would help develop the program in the wider community.
“It's one thing to have an inclusive system within the school but students also need to be able to communicate when they are outside the school environment,” she said.
Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp congratulated the school for its inspirational work in helping young people thrive.
“Our teachers, principals and education professionals do a crucial job in educating young people in Shepparton, and it’s great to see the acknowledgement of local residents who dedicate their careers to education,” Mr Gepp said.
The school is waiting in anticipation for World Teacher Day on Friday, October 25, when the winner will be announced.
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