Program Director Spotlight

Dr. Hazel Foster

 Dr. Foster, a graduate of the University of Washington in Seattle, moved back to her hometown in Oakland, CA. to pursue teaching.  Her desire for teaching evolved from coming from a family of educators and attorneys.  There were two superintendents in her family at the same time coaching her along the way to be a strong leader.   

Education was always something Hazel wanted to pursue.  She began teaching her dolls in the  family’s living room for her parents to observe.  Her years of teaching then later moved into administration. Dr. Foster had been a school vice principal and principal for fifteen years beyond teaching in public schools.   She has two master degrees; one in Educational Leadership and one in Special Education.  If that wasn’t enough she earned a doctorate degree in Special Education.  Dr. Foster is also thorough in School Law often providing workshops for districts becoming defensible in IEPs and Compliant in an IEP.  

Before coming to Spectrum Delta, Dr. Foster was a Special Day Class teacher, Resource Specialist and a Program Specialist after going into Special Education.  It was her assignment as a Program Specialist, where she developed a bond with the Delta Campus Staff because she represented the school district.  When the Program Director position at Delta became available, she applied.  Dr. Foster said, “It was like already being at home.”  

Dr. Foster is hoping she will bring structure and consistency to the Delta Campus, with a measured approach. Dr. Foster says, “Human beings don’t react well to sudden changes.  You have to go slow so people can adjust.”   Her philosophy is those who want to work with the changes will stick around and those who don’t will bail.