HUSD News Stories

For Brittany Yanov, helping students build confidence, develop workplace skills, and work toward greater independence is an important part of what she does every day. 

Yanov is a teacher with the Higley Transition & Access Program (HTAP), a one-year program for students in special education who are looking to gain employment after high school with the support of Vocational Rehabilitation. 

"The biggest thing that I love about HTAP is just seeing how far the students come from the first day of school until graduation," Yanov said. 

Yanov's passion for supporting students has also led to a longtime involvement with Best Buddies Arizona, an organization that creates opportunities for friendship, leadership and employment for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

"I'm very honored to be a part of it. I've been working with Best Buddies Arizona for 10 years. I started as an advisor at Higley High, so it's a huge part of who I am," Yanov said. 

This year, Yanov was named a Best Buddies Arizona Champion of the Year candidate. As part of the campaign, Champion candidates raise funds and awareness for Best Buddies Arizona and the programs it provides throughout the state. 

"I am honored to be a Champion Candidate for Best Buddies Arizona! Best Buddies has been an important part of my life and my work as a special education teacher," Yanov said. 

Joining Yanov throughout the campaign is former student Jaden Hawks. Together, they are encouraging the HUSD community to support their campaign by donating to Best Buddies Arizona. 

"I have seen firsthand how these opportunities help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities build friendships, gain confidence, develop workplace skills, and work toward greater independence," Yanov said. 

Yanov and Hawks' fundraising campaign runs through October 14. HUSD families and community members can support their efforts by making a donation through their Best Buddies Arizona campaign page. Funds raised will support Best Buddies Arizona's friendship, leadership and employment programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.