Program aids adjustment to life beyond school

A transition program began last year at Sisters High School when the school district identified a need among students who were prepared to leave high school but were not prepared to live independently.

"Our goal was to provide students with the necessary skills they need to live independently or with minimal assistance," said high school special education teacher Michele Hammer.

Classes were first offered in the afternoon during the winter trimester of 2008 and were held at the Flex building, which houses the alternative education program in the mornings. According to Hammer, students learned basic life components, particularly money skills and purchasing and cooking classes.

Special education specialists hope to adapt the Flex building so that students can cook on site, rather than having to walk over to the middle school. They also hope to offer a laundry skills class, money management and budgeting, grocery shopping and other skills that are necessary for independent living.

As the special education population grows, the need for this type of service also grows.

The federal government requires that school districts provide/offer transitional services until the student is 21 years of age and that is exactly what this program offers, said Hammer.

All students currently enrolled in the program are getting in some work experience this year thanks to the support of the community in providing job opportunities. SHS currently has students who work at Groomingdales, Habitat for Humanity and Sisters Coffee Company.

"I hope to enlarge the work experience component of the program so more special education students can be served," said Hammer.

The program is still in need of funds or donations for purchases of a stacking washer and dryer and a stove. A refrigerator and microwave have already been donated.

Paraprofessional Kim Chauncey has been involved in the program since its inception and works daily with the students in all skill areas.

Chauncey said, "I have seen my students make great strides toward their future independence. They're learning to cook their own meals, take care of their own homes and manage their finances. It has been so rewarding for me to watch the kids get excited when they accomplish new things."

Senior Katie Aljets told The Nugget she loves the program and said it has done a lot for her.

"I'm learning how to live on my own, said Katie. "I'm learning about how to rent an apartment and how to pay bills by myself."

Aljets worked at Ray's Food Place this past summer and is currently working at Habitat for Humanity. She's pleased with all she's learned and is thankful for the job opportunity.

"At Ray's I learned organization, that it is important to be on time, how to get along with other people and how to help the customers," she said. "I'm working at Habitat now and I'm continuing to learn about organization and how to follow directions. My hope is to someday work in the library because I love books."