Calais School Structured Learning Experience Coordinator Lisa Marie Vallo talks about why she loves her job.

“I’ve seen students grasp concepts learned in the classroom and apply them in real-time, practical ways; interviewing for a job, interacting socially, self-advocating, attending college independently, learning to drive, shopping on their own, planning and preparing their own food, pursuing their art, gaining employment,” she said.  “I have seen students take a giant leap in maturity, in self-restraint, in compassion.  I have personally seen that “ah ha!” moment they experience – a glimpse of pure satisfaction when they realize their accomplishments. I love that part.  You know, when somebody ‘gets it’ and says ‘oh my gosh – I actually just did that all by myself!’”

The Calais 12+ Program encourages students to design and pursue an individual career path based on strengths and interests, learn self-advocacy and self-determination through career education and work experience and grow, improve, and succeed in a therapeutic environment. It helps bridge the gap between high school, college, and career. Our 12+ Program is designed to help students ages 18-21 make the transition from high school to college and career in a safe and encouraging environment.

The program offers three areas of concentration: vocational skills, independent living skills and 21st century careers. Course work includes health and safety, executive functioning skills, financial literacy, housekeeping, travel training, cooking and more. Students in the 12+ Program also have access to all of the Calais School’s counseling services and extra-curricular activities, Physical Education and a variety of electives.

In an effort to ensure a seamless transition from the school environment to the adult world, students are also exposed to Structured Leaning Experiences within the community, Community-Based Instruction and Career and Technical Education programs. Internships at local businesses provide students with real world experiences that create a strong foundation toward independent adult lives. Students gain an understanding of employer expectations, cultivate appropriate workplace behavior, and build a resume all at the same time.

This Fall, 12+ students are focusing heavily on three main areas of instruction: employment skills, food fundamentals and daily living skills, Ms. Vallo noted. Her students are also concentrating on developing professional portfolios while a select few prepare for the Accuplacer test.

An exciting new addition this year is the opportunity to get certified in several areas. In a few days, students in the 12+ program will compete in the National Institute of Occupational Safety & Health (NIOSH) Youth@Work workplace safety curriculum. Students who qualify will receive a certificate. Also, three students will begin the industry recognized ServSafe Food Handlers certification.

Each student will also pursue certification in individual areas of interest throughout the year.

You can help students achieve their goals by supporting the programs that give them the tools for success. To donate to The Calais Foundation, click the link here.

#mycalaisstory #thecalaisfoundation #thecalaisschool #exceedyourpossibilities #specialeducation