Young Adult Transition Program

About Us

Empowering Independence for Young Adults with Disabilities

  • Age Range:

    • Students from the age of 18 up to 26. 

  • Focus Areas:

    • Employability

    • Independence

    • Self-Advocacy

  • Program Features:

    • Daily living skills (shopping, meal preparation, budgeting skills, personal hygiene, and housekeeping)

    • On-the-job social skills

    • Vocational Experiences 

    • Community-Based Instruction.

    • Work-based learning.

  • Designed For: 

    • Young adults interested in employment

Application Process: How to Apply?

  • Referral and Discussion

    • Involves the student, parent, Local Education Agency (LEA) case manager, LEA administrator, and ISD Special Education Supervisor.

    • Completion of Young Adult Transition survey by student and parent.  

  • Tour Arrangement

    • Contact your local school district case manager or coordinator to arrange a tour through an ISD Special Education Supervisor. 

    • Tours are by appointment on the first and third Wednesday of every month from 2:30 to 3:30 PM.

  • Transition IEP 

    • LEA Special Education Teacher arranges for a transition IEP.

    • Transition IEP will be held to determine the appropriate placement.

  • Enrollment Packet

    • Enrollment packets will be sent to the student/parent after the transition IEP is completed.

Empowering Futures

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

  • To be eligible for the ISD Young Adult Transition Center, applicants must meet the following criteria:

    • Have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

    • Should not possess a high school diploma or equivalent.

    • Minimum of 18 years old.

    • Have four years of high school.

    • Must have a desire for engagement and independence in employment or active community participation.

    • Enrolled in local school district in St. Joseph County. 

Empowering Through Experiences

Program Components: Hands-on Learning for Real-World Success

  • Community-Based Instruction:

    • Exploring the communities in our county.

    • Fostering skills and independent functioning in the community.

    • Providing a variety of activities based on individual goals.

    • Examples: shopping, budgeting, restaurant etiquette.  

  • Vocational Experiences:

    •  Opportunities In the community and on-site. 

    • A variety of employment and volunteer experiences.

    • Building relationships with community members to increase inclusion opportunities.

    • Real-world employment skills practice.

  • Job Coaching:

    • Takes place during work-based learning, vocational experiences, and independent living skills development.

  • Work-Based Learning:

    • Develops job-specific skills and work-related tasks.

    • Tailored to individual strengths, preferences, and interests.

    • Opportunities in both school and local businesses.

    • Inclusive of public transportation training.

  • Community Partner Participation:

    • Valued partners enhance independence through various opportunities.

    • Partners include business sponsors, employment agencies, and community living support.