Pennycook Elementary Faces Closure Despite Strong Deaf Program
Vallejo’s Pennycook Elementary School, renowned for its innovative Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing (DHH) programs and the Leader in Me initiative, is facing potential closure as part of the Vallejo City Unified School District’s plan to maintain fiscal stability. The school ranks third on the list of seven schools recommended for closure by the district’s 7-11 committee, raising concerns among faculty and parents about the impact on the community.
Pennycook serves as the headquarters for DHH programs across Solano County, providing vital support not just to Vallejo, but also to surrounding areas such as Napa, Fairfield, and Novato. Principal Jessica Frank, in her first year at the helm, emphasizes the importance of community involvement in the school’s operations. “We feel that that’s an asset for us,” she stated, highlighting the school’s role as an official community school. This designation enables Pennycook to access additional funding and enhance collaboration with local families through various events.
The DHH program at Pennycook is particularly noteworthy, led by Laura Fernandez, a former student of the program herself. Over the years, the program has evolved, integrating into general education classrooms and maintaining a hands-on approach to learning. In 2024, the district introduced a groundbreaking curriculum that teaches reading through hand shapes rather than phonics, a development Fernandez describes as a “game changer” for DHH education.
Fernandez, who has spent nine years teaching at Pennycook, reflects on her journey from student to educator. “I feel like this is the heart of the DHH program,” she remarked, adding that relocating the program would be “disappointing.” The DHH staff includes several hard-of-hearing teachers, offering students relatable role models and a unique perspective on their education. “It is really important for the students to see role models,” Fernandez noted.
The program’s emphasis on integration sets it apart from others. DHH students regularly interact with their peers in general classrooms, enhancing social skills and fostering a sense of community. Events such as family dinners and field trips are organized to strengthen these connections, allowing students of all ages to learn from one another. As Fernandez explained, this approach helps students communicate with older peers and prepares them for mainstream education.
In addition to its educational programs, Pennycook Elementary is recognized for piloting the Leader in Me program, a behavioral initiative that promotes leadership skills among students. Launched in 2018, the program has become a model for other schools, fostering accountability and empowering both students and staff. “It incorporates everything from students taking accountability and taking on roles at the school site,” Frank explained, emphasizing the benefits that extend throughout the school community.
Pennycook is currently working to revitalize its Leader in Me program by reinstating various committees aimed at improving student engagement. One initiative, called “Genius Hour,” will offer students elective courses in subjects such as art, music, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics) in the upcoming spring semester.
The school’s long-standing history is another point of pride for its faculty. Elizabete Fong, a veteran teacher with over 28 years of service at Pennycook, expressed the strong ties the community has with the school. “They are happy for their kids to come here,” she said, adding that the potential closure would be traumatic for all involved.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding its future, the staff remains committed to demonstrating the school’s value. Academic performance has shown improvement, with higher attendance and better test scores in English Language Arts and mathematics. “The decision itself is out of our control,” Frank stated, “but we’re just keeping strong and doing what we can to show everyone that we should be open.”
The Vallejo City Unified School District plans to finalize decisions regarding school closures by December 17, 2023. Until then, Pennycook Elementary continues to serve its community, advocating for the vital programs that have made it an essential part of the educational landscape in Solano County.
