Overview
The Community Transition Programs (CTP) were established to provide high school students with significant disabilities, ages 18 to 22, with a seamless transition from school to life as young productive adults. Typically, students with disabilities start freshman year with their peers at age 14. By their senior year, or age 18, students without disabilities are generally ready to graduate and go on to college or get a job. Based on the student’s IEP (transition plan and course of study), students with significant disabilities may stay in high school beyond their senior year. For many of these students, the high school campus is unable to provide meaningful
environments for students to improve their independence, social skills and employability. Located in the community and not on high school campuses, CTP offers students the opportunity to continue their transition and learning in integrated, age-appropriate
environments with typical peers. The CTP curriculum is research based and aligned to state standards. Each CTP student’s program is based on individualized goals
and objectives. It is the student’s and family’s vision that drives the transition process and is ultimately responsible for the student’s long-range success. Three in-school transition options:
Advanced Community Training (ACT)
Students can meet at one of two ACT sites to start their day. The sites are located in proximity to the University of Arizona’s campus. Students engage in learning by volunteering, working, interacting with the public, and accessing the community on a full-time basis for up to two years. Under the supervision of ACT teachers, University of Arizona students provide instructional support to students within meaningful community environments. Student must follow ACT application process and time lines. Project FOCUS (Focusing Opportunities with Community and University Support)
Students with intellectual disabilities will have the opportunity to access the University of Arizona’s academic offerings and campus environments in order to increase their academic achievement, self reliance, and employability. Students will enroll part time at the University of Arizona while receiving support from the UA’s instructional staff for two years. Students will complete a minimum of a 25 credits in a two year course of study based on their interests and career goals. Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is a collaborating partner with Project FOCUS. All interested students must apply for VR services. If determined eligible by VR the student’s tuition, fees and books will be paid. This is a model demonstration program of best practices in collaboration with UA’s College of Education. Project SEARCH High School Transition Program-JTED
Located at University of Arizona Medical Center South Campus (Ajo Way and Country Club) and the University of Arizona Main Campus, students learn direct employment skills by participating in three rotations in various departments. Students attend one year and exit school into employment or a job search. This is a collaborative transition model with the instruction and on-site job coaching provided by JTED. CTP teachers support the TUSD’s students by conducting the IEP and monitoring progress. Student must follow the Project SEARCH application process and time lines. Participant Eligibility
For students to participate in the Community Transition Programs they must meet the following initial criteria.
1. Safe to self and others.
2. Willing to change behaviors and learn new skills.
3. Desire to be in the community full-time.
4. Medically stable and able to endure a variety of weather conditions.
5. Student is 18 on or before the first day of Tucson Unified School District’s academic year.
6. Student has not yet fulfilled all required graduation credits. Depending on the program selected, additional criteria will apply. Please refer to the specific program’s application. For Further Information Contact
Maggie Gedebou, Senior Program Coordinator
(520) 225-6610
Maggie.Gedebou@tusd1.org
Community Transition
Programs
Exceptional Education
1010 E. 10th Street
Tucson, AZ 85719
Phone (520) 225-6610
