The program is located at Coventry High School in Coventry, Rhode Island. Transition goals and objectives are selected on an individual basis by a collaborative planning team consisting of the student, the family, advocates, professionals and all other persons deemed significant by the student. Inherent in this philosophy is the notion that students need to interact with others in the most inclusive manner through community-based instruction and a dynamic supported employment program. The employment program enables each student to experience a variety of real work situations and to advance through a five-step hierarchy of assessment, small businesses, community work groups, and supported employment towards independent employment with natural supports. Student choice is stressed in all situations.
Documentation is provided through career portfolios.
In addition, all students participate in inclusive classes during the school day. Four assessment sites are available for students to explore career options and experience the many different jobs the site has to offer. Two are in the food industry, one is at a nursing home and one is in the retail sector. She will leave school with a job for pay at a local hair salon, with a volunteer placement in a day care program at the YMCA, and with over 20 different community-based vocational assessments and experiences. In addition, she will leave school with knowledge of her community and how to access services within it as well as personal management skills, which are apparent in both home and community settings.