Jenny Holtberg
   Overcomes Challenges

Overcoming a debilitating handicap and taking on the challenges of everyday life would be an insurmountable task for many people, however, it is just a way of life for Jenny Holtberg, who was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at birth.

Jenny has learned to prevail despite her obstacles through the support of her family and the assistance of her education. She has never let her handicap interfere with her life or the enjoyment of cooking, camping with her family, and cheering on her favorite team—the Sacramento Kings.

Jenny attends SJCOE’s Stockton Community Young Adults Transition Classes, which provide practical academic curriculum and vocational training for the severely disabled transitioning from high school to the working world. Students attend school fi ve days a week and learn various skills ranging from cooking, reading the newspaper, developing a resume, and fi lling out a timesheet.

“My teacher, Traci, teaches us a lot, but cooking is my favorite,” exclaimed Jenny. “Now I help my parents cook at home, too.”

Jenny’s parents, Elizabeth and Craig, expressed their satisfaction with her success in the program. They have found that Jenny’s greatest achievement lies in her ability to express her feelings.

“It was not always easy for Jenny to voice emotions, such as frustration and anger,” said Elizabeth. “Over the years, we have seen a steady growth in this area.”

Workability, the vocational training component of the Young Adults Classes, has assisted Jenny in acquiring many skills. The program couples a part-time job at Sherwood Mall’s eatery with being mentored and evaluated by an instructional assistant.

“Jenny and others in the program work not only to acquire skills they need to succeed in life after leaving our program, but also to make a positive impact on businesses and the community,” said Terry Mead, SJCOE instructional assistant and Jenny’s job coach.

Jenny has learned through her position that she is capable of many responsibilities, including her current duties of cleaning tables, straightening chairs, and helping customers.

“Jenny looks forward to going to school and work everyday,” stated her mother. “She’s very disappointed that her time with SJCOE and the Stockton Community Young Adults Transition Classes will be over soon.”

The program provides services to adults ages 18 to 22. This June, Jenny will be graduating and will continue her development through an entirely adult program next year operated by Regional Center.

“Jenny’s experience with SJCOE’s Special Education program has proven to be a victory in overcoming struggles and achieving personal success, and will aide her indefi nitely in future endeavors,” said Director of Special Education, Kathy Skeels.