Postsecondary Transition

Work Block provides students with hands-on opportunities to build job skills in real-world settings. Students participate in a variety of work experiences within the school and community, where they practice independence, responsibility, and workplace expectations. With support as needed, students develop skills such as following directions, completing tasks, interacting with others, and exploring potential career interests to prepare for future employment.

Key Features & Skill Focus

• Exploring a variety of job opportunities
• Building independence at work
• Navigating real work environments
• Developing job readiness skills
• Earning and using job certifications

The BCFR Work Crew provides high school students with structured, supported work experiences at the BCFR main building. Students build job skills, independence, and confidence while working as part of a team. Participation is coordinated in collaboration with BCFR Support Coordinators, and final placement is determined by BCFR. Students must be current BCFR clients to be eligible.

Key Features & Skills Focus

• Participation in structured, community-based work experiences
• Building independence and confidence in real job settings
• Developing teamwork and collaboration skills
• Practicing workplace expectations (e.g., following directions, staying on task)
• Increasing responsibility and accountability on the job
• Strengthening communication skills with supervisors and peers

The CPS and Community Internship programs provide students with individualized, real-world work experiences based on their interests and strengths. Students may participate in school-based or community internships, with opportunities that may be paid or unpaid depending on the placement. Schedules are tailored to meet each student’s needs, and internships can include roles such as media assistant, preschool helper, food service worker, or custodial support. Students are expected to work with increasing independence while building skills that prepare them for future employment.

Key Features & Skill Focus

STEP is an internship program for fourth year seniors designed to help students with disabilities transition from school to the workforce.Students receive initial job coaching and gradually gain independence as supports are faded, allowing them to build natural supports in the workplace and prepare for life after graduation. This program takes place at the columbia mall. 

Key Features & Skill Focus

• Community-based internship experiences 
• Year-long program to build consistency and workplace habits
• Individualized job coaching with support gradually faded over time
• Development of work-related skills (e.g., task completion, following directions, punctuality)
• Strengthening social and communication skills in a professional setting
• Building independence and confidence on the job
• Applying prior community experience from volunteering or work block
• Supporting transition from student to employee with real-world practice

The WISE program gives students the opportunity to gain hands-on work experience in a senior living facility while learning essential job skills. Students rotate through different departments, including front desk, dining services, housekeeping, maintenance, and on-site daycare, building practical experience in a real-world, community-centered environment. Participants can earn elective credits while preparing for future careers with structured support.

Key Features & Skill Focus

• Hands-on work experience in multiple departments within a senior living facility
• Building independence while completing tasks with minimal supervision
• Development of workplace skills (e.g., time management, following directions, responsibility)
• Strengthening communication and social skills in a professional setting
• Exposure to diverse career options in a community-centered environment
• Applying prior community experience to real-world work situations
• Support and guidance to enhance workplace success
• Opportunity to earn elective credits while gaining meaningful work experience

The University Hospital Program provides fourth year seniors with paid, hands-on work experience in a hospital setting. Students are employed by the University Hospital and work approximately 10 hours per week in an assigned department. The program helps students develop independence and workplace skills while earning elective credits. Participation prepares students for post-graduation employment by offering real-world experience in a professional environment.

Key Features & Skill Focus

• Paid, hospital-based work experience in a professional setting
• Working independently under the supervision of department staff
• Navigating the application process, including maintaining a checking account
• Learning to navigate a large workplace environment like University Hospital
• Developing workplace skills such as time management, responsibility, and following directions
• Meeting workplace requirements, including passing a drug test
• Earning elective credits through successful program participation
• Preparing for post-graduation employment with real-world experience