New Life Skills/Transition Program Will Help Students Succeed
The Life Skills/Transition program is new and unique because it is personalized for each student´s ability and potential. Lessons are taught in a natural setting, which is crucial because individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities tend to be concrete learners. The program gives students the opportunity to continue their Madonna education in the community. As a result, students develop confidence in their abilities.
In the school´s on-site apartment, students learn to independently maintain their living environment by preparing meals, doing laundry, and making a bed.
Job coaches take small groups of students to local businesses for on-site visits. There they learn necessary skills for competitive employment, such as how to fill out a job application, punch a time clock and operate a cash register. As part of this program, students will also practice using the mass transit system and managing finances.
Diane Cochran is serving as the Director of this program. She brings 31 years of experience working with mild to moderate disabled children to this position. Diane developed the curriculum for this program with the input from the teaching staff at Madonna School.
"We believe in the premise that every student, no matter how severe his or her disabilities, is capable of living, working and recreating in the community," said Diane. "Our students want to be independent. It is our responsibility to teach and assist them in their goals."
"I truly believe that this program is the right direction to take with our students here at Madonna School and encourage you and future donors to assist us in maintaining and enhancing the future of this program and to help us develop an awareness of the program in the community, especially with parents of young people with special needs," said Sister Michelle Faltus, Madonna School President.
