Sierra Vista K-8

Dear Sierra Vista families,

 

My name is Laurie Vidt, and I am the elementary resource teacher at Sierra Vista K-8 School. I have loved working at Sierra Vista for the past eight years. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of South Florida in Tampa, and my teaching credential and master’s in Special Education with an emphasis in Autism from Touro University in Vallejo. The 2024–2025 school year will mark my 18th year as a special education teacher. Prior to that, I was an Early Mental Health specialist for the Fairfield-Suisun district. My passion for teaching and helping children has led me to teach all ages, from preschool (16 years) to elementary and middle school up to 7th grade. I love working with students of all abilities, discovering their unique strengths.

 

As the elementary resource teacher, I work with all of the students at Sierra Vista with IEPs, ensuring that the needs of each individual student are met according to their IEP. I enjoy collaborating with students and staff to create a safe and exciting learning environment where all students can thrive. My goal is to have a classroom where everyone can reach their personal goals, succeeding in growth-mindset learning, all in a safe and respectful environment. I am excited about working in a K-8 school environment, as I get to follow my students as they progress through middle school.

 

My colleagues voted me Teacher of the Year for 2017-18, an honor that fuels my passion for teaching and being a part of this awesome team here at Sierra Vista. In 2019, I was recognized by SCOE for outstanding service to individuals with special needs.

 

In addition to my teaching, I enjoy working and training my dogs. I have been blessed to share my two therapy dogs, Koel and Kahu, with students and staff here at Sierra Vista K-8. Over the past nine years, I have worked with therapy dogs Elko and Koel, witnessing amazing bonds between students and dogs. My current therapy dog, Kahu, has been with us for one year and is doing amazing work with the students. The dogs help us maintain our mental health, providing unconditional acceptance. Students love to read to them because there is no judgment. I have volunteered with Guide Dogs for the Blind for over 24 years, training puppies, and often have a guide puppy in training in my classroom. 

 

Outside of school, I enjoy swimming and gardening, especially growing and sharing my succulent collection. I love visiting my daughter Courtney, who is a Major in the USAF, and exploring the area where she currently lives. For the past 10 years, I have been part of the Play4All park planning committee, which has developed a park for all children, especially those with special needs. The park is located near the corner of Leisure Town and Elmira Rd.

 

I’m looking forward to a wonderful year at Sierra Vista. Go Grizzlies!

 

Ms. Laurie Vidt