Extensions and Transition

Extensions basics:

• Students are following an adapted curriculum and are working toward a Certificate of Completion of High School (NOT a diploma).

• Students may attend school until the school year that they turn 22 years old.

• During the first 4 years, the curriculum focuses on core classes of Math, English, Science, and Social Studies.

• Students are included in school wide activities including pep rallies, assemblies, and lunch. 

• If your student is 18 or older and has a legal guardian, please provide a copy of the guardianship for our records.

Transition Program

Who is in it? Students in the Extensions program who have completed their first four years of high school. (Usually age 18-22)

Why? Our purpose is to have the students be as independent as possible through learning skills that include social skills, vocational skills, and life skills. 

How is this different from what they have been doing? The curriculum moves away from formal core classes of Math, English, Science, and Social Studies. The curriculum includes classes on Food and Nutrition, Community Living, Communication, and Home Care. The math, reading, and writing become more functionally and vocationally focused. Students also have job tasks they learn. Job skills including listening, working as a team, and staying on task are incorporated. 

What kinds of tasks are we doing? We are participating in on-campus and off-campus work with different community partners

On campus: (some examples)                                                   

Aquaponics  - feeding fish, harvesting produce

Campus and activity bus clean up                                                               

Shredding                                                                                          

Pencil sharpening and bundling                                                                                                                         

Making needed copies                                                                  

Staff birthday cards                                                                                   

 Off campus: (always open to expand)

WeCare food and clothing pantry (organize, pack)

Various tasks at Mint Hill Public Library (clean, check CDs, prepare pamphlets, bookmarks, crafts)

Bright Blessings (prepare gift bags, make decorations, fold washclothes for hygiene kits)

What can I do to support my child? Help your child by having them take on responsibilities at home or in the community. Self care skills (ie. In the bathroom, getting dressed, and grooming), laundry, cooking, shopping, speaking for themselves as much as possible are just some of the areas. 

What is CBI/CBT? Community Based Instruction and Community Based Training

Does everyone participate in CBI/CBT? Yes. However, this is approached in many ways. ALL the Extensions students participate through community outings – exploring the community through field trips. All of the Transition students participate through added responsibilities of job tasks. All students perform job tasks at the school throughout the building. For off campus instruction and training, additional forms are required. Students are required to have proof of insurance, appropriate behavior, be able to follow directions, and work with a team. For safety and supervision, a limited number of students go to the job sites at any given time.