Redwood’s special education program stands out for its comprehensive support, offering personalized learning plans, small group instruction and dedicated resources to help students with diverse academic needs thrive.
Jefferson Sand stands out not only for his role as an Academic Workshop teacher, but also for the way he supports students who receive individualized academic accommodations and additional support throughout the school day. With his constant energy, genuine compassion and sense of humor, Sand transforms his classroom into a space where students feel supported while feeling encouraged to grow.
Sand teaches Academic Workshop classes and serves as an education specialist. He manages a caseload of 28 students. Sand helps them navigate academics, build organization skills and navigate the emotional challenges that often come with school.
While Sand values the responsibilities of his role, he said the heart of his work lies in relationships with students.
“My favorite part of the job is always the kids,” Sand said. “They’re the best part of my job, and it’s the part that I absolutely love and cherish every day.”
Teaching was not always part of Sand’s plan. Despite coming from what he jokingly calls “an embarrassing long line of teachers,” he initially hoped to avoid the profession.
“There was one job I didn’t want… teaching,” Sand said. “And here I am.”
After working in other fields such as an Asia-based sourcing company and a real estate brokerage firm, his desire to connect with young people eventually led him back to the classroom. That realization brought him back to education. Since joining Redwood back in 2019, Sand developed a teaching style centered on empathy, consistency and encouragement.
Junior Francesca Fagersten, one of the 28 students in Sand’s caseload, described what makes him stand out.
“He’s different from other teachers,” Fagersten said. “He’s made me want to try harder in school, and [he is] the most understanding person.”
Fagersten said that Sand’s mix of humor and structure makes his class feel like a safe place, one where she can both relax and focus.
“He’s chill in the best way and just has a good way of approaching teaching,” Fagersten said.
Freshman Lilly Aytay, another of the 28 students on Sand’s caseload, agreed, noting how Sand’s humorous personality turns every day’s classes into something more memorable.
“He can make everyone laugh,” Aytay said. “He’s thoughtful, honest and fun. Everyone knows him for that.”
Aytay added how Sand’s impact goes beyond his personality, noting how consistently he checks in with students and offers help.
“He actually cares about us. He always checks in, helps with anything and listens,” Aytay said.
Sand’s approach to teaching mirrors the values he lives by outside the classroom. He believes balance, movement and connection are essential to maintaining a positive mindset. He spends his time walking the campus, playing music with his friends and mountain biking on the weekends.
“Being outside resets my brain,” Sand said. “It helps me stay positive.”
That mindset shapes how he supports his students. Sand said his goal is not just to help students finish assignments, but to recognize their own potential.
“I want them to know I care,” Sand said. “But also I want them to know they can do more than they think [and] that nothing great ever happens inside your comfort zone.”
Through his consistent encouragement and genuine relationships with his students, Sand leaves a lasting impression on students that stays with them long after high school. His teaching shows that education is not only about academics, but also about building confidence and helping students feel capable in and out of the classroom.
