The Community Transition Program (CTP) is a place for young adults with disabilities who have graduated from high school to transition to adulthood in a supported community. Students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) receive programming based on their individual goals and learning needs.
CTP mainly works with students aged 18-21 who graduated with non-standard diplomas. They help develop skills that teach them how to be more independent in all aspects of adulthood. These students receive further support and education after high school that provides crucial life skills like self-advocacy. Nan Deane, a CTP Transition Specialist for the Lake Oswego School District said that “CTP’s classroom is a community experience.”
How the Community Transition Program works is that the eligible students who attend it get real-life experiences that focus on the shift to adulthood, mainly employment, education and independence. CTP supports these young adults in the search for work. Students can obtain experience in community-based job sites through volunteering and internships. When a student is ready for a paid job, a state agency known as Vocational Rehabilitation is a resource that also helps with job development and job coaching as well as other employability skills.
CTP gives educational guidance to their students about post-secondary education opportunities and training. This program helps support those who attend college. For instance, Portland Community College has accommodations coordinated through Accessible Ed & Disability Resources that CTP can help students acquire.
Growing independent living skills is also a vital aspect of the Community Transition Program. The students who attend the CTP develop their social and transportation skills, build connections with outside agencies, and plan their fun community outings. This works as an engaging blend of classroom instruction and real-world experiences.
CTP is a safe space for people to learn and get support on their current goals. This is important and helpful for young adults trying to figure out the world around them. After students turn 22 and are no longer in the age range to attend CTP, they exit school services. The relationships they’ve built with people, businesses and other resources help them to thrive as adults.
