Bridge Transition students get a space of their very own

After many years of learning within kid-sized classrooms and using kid-sized facilities, young adults in the district’s Bridge Transition 18 to 21-year-old program have their very own remodeled space within the Oak Park Building.

A section of the former elementary school has been renovated to meet the needs of this unique group of learners. The old elementary classroom walls, which served as the program’s home since 2017, have been torn down. The spaces have been reconfigured to create simulated living and working environments to help young adults with disabilities develop real-world skills. One new space looks much like a small apartment, with a kitchen, bathroom, living room and bedroom area to help students practice life skills. Other areas are designed as a commercial kitchen, an office space, a fabrication lab and other real-world work spaces.

The Transition program helps teach students important skills and explore various post-secondary education and job opportunities. It also gives students a variety of experiences in the community through jobs and  service projects to discover what interests they have and determine what they might like to do in the future.

“We’re so excited to have a learning space for our students that really meets their needs,” said Caitlyn Willis, assistant director for Student Support Services. “It’s been a long time coming and we’re thrilled to have a space that reflects the amazing work taking place here everyday.”