At Miramonte High School in Orinda, the buzz on campus isn’t just about academics or athletics; it’s about dog treats. They’re called Matadogs, and for special education teacher Asia Pavicich, the project behind them has been a true labor of love.

Matadogs are pumpkin and peanut butter dog treats, but what makes them special isn’t necessarily the flavor, though dogs seem to like them; it’s the bakers. The treats are made by students in Pavicich’s Essential Skills class, which focuses on teaching communication, vocational, and life skills to students with moderate to severe disabilities.

“I wanted something the students could really own, something new, something exciting,” Pavicich said.

The project began last year when Pavicich realized her older students had opportunities for real-worl

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