GGUSD Celebrates Grand Opening of Transformed Mark Twain Special Education and Adult Transition Program Campus

• Friday, August 8, 2025

Garden Grove Unified School District’s (GGUSD) Board of Education hosted a joyful ribbon-cutting celebration marking the grand opening and transformation of the Mark Twain Special Education Center and Adult Transition Program (ATP) campus.

The newly modernized campus now serves as a centralized location for the district’s medically fragile students, students with moderate to severe special needs, and Adult Transition Program students, combining the existing Mark Twain program with the ATP students previously located at the Jordan site. Bringing the two programs together provides a more cohesive support system, strengthening services, maximizing resources and fostering a more connected and inclusive special education community.

Dr. Gabriela Mafi, Superintendent of GGUSD, opened the ceremony by expressing gratitude to the Board of Education for its student-centered vision and commitment to inclusive, modern learning environments. The event was attended by Board of Education Trustee Teri Rocco, California State Senator Tony Strickland, Garden Grove Councilmembers Cindy Tran and Ariana Arestegui and Westminster Mayor Chi Charlie Nguyen as well as staff and families.

The transformation of the campus includes two newly constructed classroom buildings housing 12 state-of-the-art classrooms, a new Administrative Building, fully accessible restrooms, shade structures, expanded parking and drop-off areas, upgraded infrastructure, and beautifully landscaped grounds with seating areas and a digital marquee.

“We now have all the support systems our students need in one centralized location,” said Board Trustee Teri Rocco. “With these beautiful new facilities, our students will thrive, grow, and prepare for lifelong success.”

The renovation also comes with new features that support real-world learning and independent living skills, such as cooking stations, dishwashers, and laundry facilities—resources that are especially meaningful for ATP students.

The revitalized campus will be led by Principal Joell Sparks and her dedicated team, setting the stage for a year filled with student achievement, growth, and connection.

Latest News