Every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and connected at school. The NEST helps students build on their strengths, develop new skills, and experience success in their school communities.
The NEST—Nurturing Empathy, Safety & Trust—is a High Desert Education Service District program offered in partnership with Bend-La Pine Schools. The NEST serves kindergarten through fifth-grade students receiving special education services who are working to strengthen skills related to behavior, relationships, and social-emotional development.
The NEST provides a supportive and structured classroom environment where students can build meaningful relationships with peers, practice social-emotional skills, and develop greater confidence, independence, and self-advocacy. Students continue to grow academically while developing the skills they need to feel successful and connected at school.
Families are an important part of that work. The NEST partners closely with families, educators, and school teams to celebrate student strengths, share progress, and create consistent support that helps each student thrive.
