| Susan: Transition from High School to "Adult-escents" Like many students who received special education services, Susan planned to participate in the senior graduation ceremony with her age-peers at age 18, but be supported by the school system through her 21st birthday. It was critical that Susan not be an "eternal senior," that is, follow the same schedule over and over until she "aged out." Rather, Susan wanted to have support from the school to work toward her career and continuing learning goals, and a flexible school schedule that would allow her to pursue opportunities of interest when and where they occur in the community.
Through extensive person-centered future planning, Susan identified a desired career path in baking, and a specific personal interest and talent in painting. During her senior year, a vendor funded through Vocational Rehab found Susan a job as a baker's assistant in a local bakery. Susan's 1:1 paraprofessional from school initially provided the on-the-job support, and then worked with Susan's co-workers and supervisor to develop their capacity to support Susan.
Through taking an art class, Susan met a local artist who has become her mentor. Together they've rent studio time at the art school where they work on personal projects. Susan has also become an assistant for an art class her mentor holds for elementary school children. Susan has been assisted to use the local public transportation system and is learning to take the bus independently to work, the art school, the YMCA where she takes yoga and swim classes, and to her aunt's house where her mother picks her up each afternoon.
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