2008-2009 COMPASS Transitions Program
The COMPASS School now offers our students intensive, wrap-around support transitioning from high school to full-time employment and post-secondary education. Students participating in the Transitions Program can expect to work closely with our staff to develop employable job skills, to learn how to live independently, to apply to local four-year colleges or community colleges and to achieve a meaningful sense of self-worth.
Participation in the Transitions Program is voluntary and open to all students, grades nine through twelve. Students close to graduation, however, are strongly encouraged to meet with the Transitional Coordinator when they first arrive at COMPASS. Together with the Transitional Coordinator, each student will help develop an Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) that will detail what he or she can expect to do after they complete high school. Parents and Guardians are important participants in the Transitions Program. The Transitional Coordinator will
reach out to parents and guardians to seek their input and support throughout the transitional process.
In the spring of 2008, COMPASS received a grant from the Clowes Fund, a family foundation supporting the arts, education and social services, that will provide paid internships for students at local businesses. Beginning this fall, students participating in the Transitions Program will follow a rigorous training program to prepare them for employment—a program that will include resume development, volunteer experience, practice interviews and job placements.
An important part of the Transitions Program will be our focus on students’ academic progress and their emotional and physical wellbeing. In this way, the program requires students to have two jobs: first, to develop employable skills for life after COMPASS, and second, to address their personal needs and overcome their personal obstacles. Students will be expected to meet weekly with a clinician, to attend weekly group meetings and to engage with the Transitional Coordinator to set, and reach, personal goals.
We are looking forward to a very successful year helping our students achieve their dreams! |
