Schools

D-158 Launches Program for Graduating Students With Disabilities

The inaugural program is meant to help make the transition into the real world less daunting for these students, according to the news release.

Identifying a career path and dealing with the responsibilities that go along with entering the real world can be especially difficult for students with disabilities as they graduate from high school, according to a District 158 press release.

With that in mind, District 158 has launched a new program aimed at helping make that transition.  The Special Services Department of Consolidated School District 158 recently announced its 18 to 21 transition program, Life Instruction Guiding Huntley Transition (LIGHT), developed to support students with disabilities as they progress into adulthood and higher education, according to the news release. 

A transition student is someone who has completed their graduation requirements, but has delayed acceptance of their diploma so they can receive additional support and instruction before entering adulthood. 

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LIGHT offers students continued assistance through state and federal legislation before exiting secondary education. LIGHT also provides a range of academic and vocational training which is directed by the students’ Individualized Educational Plan (IEP).

This fall, LIGHT begins its inaugural year as a three-tiered program located at Huntley Park District’s Deicke Park and McHenry County College. 

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The program will be taught by District 158 special education teachers and support staff. Curriculum for the program is focused on developing and building academics, employment, and independent living skills to meet the unique needs of our 18-21 population. 

District 158 will hold a ribbon cutting and open house for LIGHT on Monday, Aug. 19 from 6 to 7pm at Deicke Park, 11419 Route 47 in Huntley. 

Questions about LIGHT, can be directed to Transition Facilitator Liz Kienzle by e-mail at ekienzle@district158.org or by phone at (847) 659-6136. 


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