Definition: Transition in special education programs is the movement from one program to another. Transitions can be:

• from one grade classroom to another;
• from one school to another;
• from one program to another; or
• from school to postsecondary, college, vocational program, or other programs.

Acacia Academy’s Transition program focuses on developing post secondary goals for students. We want our students to experience more options once they graduate then they would have without a transition program. Students learn the skills necessary for successfully transition from high school to post-secondary educational enrollment and employment options for life as an adult. A Transition Plan is written for each student when they turn fourteen years old and continues until they graduate from high school. Starting the process early prepares students with disabilities to think about what they want to be able to do after high school graduation. Acacia Academy’s transition planning concentrates on exploring universities, community colleges, and trade schools. Students take chaperoned field trips to local college campuses and speak directly to admission counselors and special education directors. Acacia’s transition program also includes exploring future careers, employment options, administration of interest inventories, finding part-time employment within the community and possible volunteer work. Other aspects of our transition program may include contacting local adult service agencies that provide the student with services when he or she turns 22 years of age or graduates from high school.

Acacia Academy’s vocational program enables the student to transition into the working world through volunteer and shadow programs within the community.

Our high school students gain experience in the work field, learn what responsibilities one must have to remain employed, improve self-esteem and feelings of self-worth, enhance their range of social skills, and acquire vocational/ job training skills. Students have the opportunity to experience first hand numerous job opportunities and businesses within the community. The students may also be transported to a desired work site where they learn hands on skills and develop work ethics.

The purpose of this program is to enable Acacia Academy students to successfully transition into college, the work force and adult life. The school is committed to developing the highest level of education and quality of life for all students.