Instructional Support Services

Assistant Principal

718-232-2500 

The Special Education Department at New Utrecht High School is proudly led by Assistant Principal Adesuwa Ohunwu-Vargas, a dedicated educator and former Wilson® Dyslexia Practitioner (W.D.P.). Mrs. Ohunwu-Vargas brings her expertise in literacy intervention and teacher development to ensure that every student receives high-quality, evidence-based instruction. She has supported numerous teachers in implementing best literacy practices that empower diverse learners to thrive academically and socially.

 

 

Our department includes over 65 special education teachers, paraprofessionals, and support staff, each bringing a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds to the classroom. Together, we are committed to supporting our students’ academic, emotional, and social growth while preparing them for postsecondary success in college, career, and life.

 

At New Utrecht High School, our Special Education Department is dedicated to fostering career and college readiness for all learners, especially our most vulnerable student populations.
We believe that every student deserves access to meaningful learning experiences that build independence, confidence, and transferable skills for future success.
Through inclusive instruction, differentiated supports, and strong partnerships with families and community partners, we empower students to achieve their full potential—academically, socially, and vocationally.

 

ICT classrooms combine the expertise of a general education teacher and a special education teacher who co-teach to support students with and without IEPs. This inclusive approach ensures that all students receive individualized instruction and access to the general education curriculum.

 

Self-contained classes provide smaller (15-1), structured learning environments where students receive highly individualized instruction tailored to their unique learning needs. These settings emphasize literacy, social-emotional development, and skill-building while maintaining alignment with state standards.

To enhance both academic and career readiness, New Utrecht High School offers electives designed specifically to meet the needs of our students with diverse learning needs and IEP's. These courses include: