Special Education
Transition Services
Dixie Periman, Coordinator
720-554-4250
Allison Witkin, Principal
720-747-2902
Cherry Creek Schools offers a variety of ways for students to prepare for and make the transition to adult life. Many transition activities occur throughout the student's time in school, although we may not think of these activities as being specifically related to preparing for this transition. However, the focus and planning for transition, as required in IDEA, begins when a child is 16, and continues until the student exits the school system by graduating or at the age of 21. The following is a description of the services available to all students who receive special education in Cherry Creek.
UP TO 15 YEARS OLD
Students acquire and build upon academic and social skills which adults use in daily life. Practice in developing responsibility, work ethics and behavior, getting along with others, completing assignments, following directions, time management and following the rules of an organization (school) are just some of the skills practiced in school which can be applied to adult life. Students also become aware of various jobs that exist in the community.
AGES 16 - 21
Beginning at age 16, IDEA requires that the IEP must include a statement of needed transition services. This means that transition planning and determining long range outcomes will be discussed during IEP meetings. After the student/family express their goals for life after high school, the courses and activities in which the student participates in school should help lead to this post-school outcome. For example, if a student states that he would like to attend college to become an engineer, the course of study should include classes which will help him develop necessary skills for success in college like English, Math, Social Studies, and Science. Another student may have no idea about her future. She may participate in general course of study including electives. Other students may wish to begin work experiences in the school or in their community.
Beginning at 16, specific planning during the IEP process regarding transition must be done. The IEP must describe how the school will provide transition instruction and activities. Students must have community experiences and opportunities to develop employment skills. In addition, the IEP must identify linkages to adult agencies like post-secondary schools, Developmental Pathways, mental health agencies, parks and recreation opportunities, SWAP and/or the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, to name a few. The IEP should state specific goals and objectives which will prepare the student for life after high school. For example, these goals and objectives may reflect developing specific career skills, learning how to cook or do laundry, learning study skills, and becoming a self-advocate. Any skill needed to achieve the post school outcome is related to transition.
18 - 21 TRANSITION PROGRAM
Students who complete their high school coursework and/or four years of high school, and who continue to have needs in preparing for the transition to adult life may participate in the 18-21 Transition Program. This is a community based program. Students participate in the community in jobs, recreation, classes and other activities as do other adults their age. Planning activities based upon interests are emphasized with support by teachers, job coaches and paraprofessionals.
SWAP
Students 16 and older, and adults out of school up to age 25 may participate in the
School to Work Alliance Program. This is jointly funded by Cherry Creek School District and the Division for Vocational Rehabilitation. The purpose is to help students with mild disabilities acquire and maintain employment. Efforts are made to match the client to jobs which can become a career, are of interest and provide a living wage and benefits.
Contact Kristen Archer at 720-886-5871.