Academic Programs
Empowering Transitions: The Role of Transition Education Center (TEC)
In the journey from school life to community integration, the Transition Education Center stands as a beacon of support for students with and without disabilities. At the core of the Transition Education Center lies our mission, deeply ingrained in every facet of our operations. Our commitment to honoring students’ unique abilities and aspirations, fostering safe and inclusive environments, and promoting collaborative partnerships permeates every program and interaction.
Rooted in the legislative framework of Minnesota, the first three TEC programs prepare students with disabilities to progress and move from school life to community.
Transition Plus
Transition Plus is a program for young adults with special needs, typically between the ages of 18-22. IEP teams determine the students that are appropriate for the Transition Plus services. These students can include an array of educational and vocational options, both on campus and in the community. Transition Plus students earn their diplomas upon successful completion of credits and/or IEP goals. Students will graduate and earn a diploma when the goals and objectives in that student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) are met or the student ages out. A student ages out the day they turn 22.
Transition and Post-Secondary Preparation (TAPP)
The Transition and Post-Secondary Preparation program provides an opportunity for young adults with special needs to progress toward graduation at an individualized pace based on their Individual Education Program (IEP). Creative educational opportunities are incorporated to enhance community participation, employment, independent living and functional academic skills. The student's IEP ensures that the student's efforts are focused on meeting "real world" needs. In the TAPP program, each student works individually or in small groups on assignments and activities. Small class sizes allow each student to receive support from he teacher during the school ear to foster success in an attempt to make graduation a reality. Students that participate in the TAPP program are typically in grades 11-12+ and are placed by their IEP team.
Project SEARCH
Project SEARCH is a business led high school transition model that provides students with disabilities meaningful job skills through systematic instruction and three internship opportunities in preparation for competitive employment. This is accomplished through a collaboration with Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, White Bear Lake Area Schools, Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Ramsey County and the Project SEARCH State Leadership Team. The planning process to apply to Project SEARCH can begin as early as the year prior to the student's final transition year. Families can begin the process of applying for country social services and the Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Eligible students will also need to complete the application process. The selection team includes Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare representatives, Transition Plus staff , and other professionals. The application process includes tours, interviews, hands-on assessments, and scoring on a rubric related to entrance considerations.
The fourth TEC program supports the district’s Student Discipline Practices and Positive Behavior Supports, where student discipline practices are built on positive educator-student relationships and responsive to individual student needs.
Accountability with Academics and Restorative Education (AWARE)
Accountability With Academics and Restorative Education (AWARE) provides alternative education services for White Bear Lake Area School District students in grades 6-12, most often while serving a suspension. AWARE provides students with education in a structured setting to complete schoolwork, process their decisions and learn strategies for solving issues and problems. Students are referred to AWARE by a school administrator.
At the heart of the Transition Education Center lies a commitment to student success and community integration. The dedicated staff in these programs are committed to empowering individuals with the skills needed for post-school success. Through personalized support, experiential learning, and collaborative partnerships, the Transition Education Center not only prepares students for the future but also fosters a culture of inclusivity and empowerment.
As students transition back to their home schools or into the community, they carry with them the skills, confidence, and resilience cultivated within the walls of the Transition Education Center, poised to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.