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The Special Education Department at GGHS is blessed with having many highly qualified teachers whose focus is the betterment of the lives of the students in their care. Currently there are 7 teachers in the Special Education Department. Many of these teachers not only hold clear credentials in the field, but also hold Masters Degrees in Special Education. All in the department have come to teaching at Grove with years of practice and knowledge in the tutelage of students with special needs. The department is guided and supported by the leadership of Vice Principal, Dr. Czarnecki. |
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| As a department we strive to help our students become productive members of society, who effectively communicate their own needs, act as self-advocates and possess the ability to think creatively and critically to overcome their struggles and to become life-long learners who actively participate in society and take responsibility for their personal growth. |
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1. Conference Room: E8 |
I was a graduate of Garden Grove High School in 1984. After High School I attended OCC where I earned an AA degree and then attended CSULB where I earned a BA in Art general and then a BFA in Illustration. After CSULB I attended National University where I earned an MA in Special Education and two credentials in the fields of Art and Special Education. I have been working at GGHS teaching Special Education and teaching General Education Art since 2005. I am very, very happy hear. In my free time, I enjoy backpacking and travel. I have been to 6 continents and more than 50 counties. I draw and paint to relax and love outdoor sports. |
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| Chris Takach | Department Chair | ||
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1. Algebra 1 Room: C5 |
Graduate of Pasadena Nazarene College; attended University of Edinburgh, Eastern Nazarene College, University of California at Irvine. Working at GGHS since 1992. | |
| Janet Godfrey | |||
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1. WH/English Support Room: E7 |
Mr. Brian Berneking began his education in GGUSD at age five. He later moved with his parents to Mission Viejo in the mid-70’s. Mr. Berneking graduated from El Toro High School in 1985 from where he gained a Water Polo scholarship to UC Berkeley. He received his undergraduate degree-a B.A. in Political Science while at UC Berkeley. He later worked towards the receipt of a M.A. in Special Education from Columbia University’s Teachers College in NYC. Mr. Berneking holds four Special Ed. teaching credentials as well as a California Clear Administrative Credential. He enjoys spending time with his wife and 2 daughters, crusing around the world with his family, caring for numerous tropical fish, coaching his girls, and playing Masters Water Polo. |
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| Brian Berneking | |||
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1. English 1 Room: B4 |
Mrs. Edwards went to Pacific High School in San bernardino, CA. she attended San Bernardino Vally Junior College and received an AA degree. She also attended San Diego State College BA in Home Economics. She got her teaching credentials from SD Home Economics and General Junior High Humboldt State College Learning Handicapped Credential and resources Specialist Certificate of Competency. This is her fifth year at GGHS. she has two daughters and four wonderful grand daughters. her hobbies are quilting, reading, sewing, and spending time with her grand daughters. | |
| Judy Edwards | |||
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1. English Support Room: E9 |
Mr. Gorcoff attended Akron Garfield High School in Ohio. He graduated from the University of Akron, OH and Cal State Long Beach. He has earned degrees in Business/Administration/Marketing, and Education/Special Education. He has been working at GGHS since 1998. He has strong faith, and enjoys staying fit and playing baseball. He and his wife have 2 children: son, Nico and daughter, Molly Dai. | |
| Tom Gorcoff | |||





