Bridge Program

WHO WE ARE

Students who receive special education services may continue in a public school setting until they are 21 years of age. BLaST IU 17’s BRIDGE Program is designed to help older students connect with others, foster independence, hone their interests, and gain valuable work experience before graduating. This innovative program includes both direct instruction within a classroom and practical work experience at local job sites. In our programs located at Lycoming College and Sayre High School,students have access to life skills instruction, academic courses, and electives for part of their school day. Students spend the remainder of their day engaged in hands-on learning within the community, where they are supported by job coaches.

WHAT WILL YOU DO

• Further develop skills related to the Individualized Education Plan
• Continue development of functional skills in an authentic environment
• Participate in extracurricular activities on campus

COUNTLESS BENEFITS

• Work Experience based on student interest
• Achieve transition IEP goals
• Increase social skill opportunities
• Learn practical and functional life skills
• Increase independence

Opportunities for Students who

• Are in 12th grade + (ages 17+ and enrolled in High School)
• Demonstrate positive behavior
• Have a history of regular school attendance
• Can independently use the restroom
• Demonstrate safety awareness skills
• Demonstrate mature and responsible conduct
• Demonstrate respect for other people, property, and ideas
• Demonstrate some independence with both academic & nonacademic activities
• Are willing to work on employment & career goals
• Are willing to participate in job exploration activities
• Are willing to maintain a busy schedule including classes & employment during the school day