Transition

BSA is a transition school. As such, independent-living skills, work-related behaviors and universal job skills are threaded throughout school programming. Younger students gain independence through varied tasks, which are incorporated throughout the day (for example, preparing snacks, carrying messages, collaborative projects, community-based instruction and daily chores).

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Older students participate in school and home-based internships where they build knowledge and skills needed for integrated community living. Internships will be overseen by a skilled staff member in collaboration with the student’s transdisciplinary team and parent/guardian. Home and school collaboration are essential for the program, with school curriculum overlapping with home experience. Sample home internships at this age might include specific mealtime jobs, bedroom and other house cleaning chores, and laundry. Some school internships could involve being a messenger, performing administrative and clerical tasks, classroom maintenance, data display and peer tutoring.   

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From the age of 16 until graduation, high school students have opportunities for varied community and school-based internships. Depending on the student’s interests, skills and talents, preferences, and particular characteristics, a skilled staff member will work with each student along with their transdisciplinary team and parent/guardian to identify appropriate internships. These may occur at retail businesses, restaurants, florist shops, hotels, community resources, office work, hospital volunteer programs or veterinarians.