Bridge Transition Program

The Transition Program

The Deron School’s Transition program at the Montclair Campus is designed to assist students in making a smooth transition from high school to adult life. Every student’s Transition Program is composed of activities in the following areas:

  • Academic Instruction (with emphasis on functional/daily living skills)
  • Community-Based Instruction (CBI)
  • Recreation
  • Prevocational & Structured Learning Experiences
  • Related & Support Services 

All students begin their “work career” at Deron participating in programs developed within the school. These in-school job placements provide the opportunity to practice good work habits and apply appropriate behaviors, while also developing skills that may be required for certain types of gainful employment. 

Structured Learning Experiences allow students to work part-time, shadowed by a Deron Job Coach. These supported employment placements in retail, food service, day-care, medical and elder-care facilities. Students are matched up with positions that complement their skill level, strengths and interests. 

In preparation for graduation, Deron Social Workers assist graduating students and their families with the important task of registering with the Division of Developmental Disabilities and also encourage them to connect with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS). Both of these agencies provide services to assist disabled individuals in coping with adult life issues. (Move to related services- social workers.

 

The Bridge Program

The Deron School Montclair Campus Bridge Program was established to provide students ages 18-21, who have fulfilled their High School credit requirements, with further education and experiences to prepare them to achieve their post-high school goals. The focus of Bridge is to promote learners’ independence at home, at work and within their community. 

Participants, with diverse needs and abilities, are presented with entrepreneurial opportunities and activities that focus on developing skills for making a successful transition from school to becoming an active and successful member of their community.  Areas of study include:

  • Financial literacy
  • Consumer awareness
  • Life skills
  • Community resources
  • Travel training
  • Employment preparation

Community-based activities and Structured Learning Experiences reinforce skills introduced in the classroom while promoting independence and self-confidence. When appropriate, students are assisted through the process of obtaining certifications like Safe Serve and CPR in order to increase their future employment opportunities.  The Montclair Campus’ ideal location allows students the opportunity to travel via public transportation and learn to navigate a wide range of community resources. Students in Deron’s Bridge program have participated in Structured Learning Experiences at:

  • Hackensack Meridian Health Mountainside Medical Center 
  • The Falls (Catering Venue)
  • Organic Food Incubator 
  • St. Thomas the Apostle School
  • Shop-Rite
  • Walgreens Pharmacy
  • Chocolate Works 
  • Montclair Bread Company 
  • Kean University 
  • ABA 4 You

Deron is pleased to note that many former students are successfully employed in the following areas: service industry, food & nutrition, medical services, warehousing, automotive maintenance, technology and retail.

 All graduates receive guidance as they work through the important process of applying to the appropriate agencies for services that will facilitate their future success and independence. 

 

Join us at the Alliance Fair at Union College on Saturday, March 23, 2024!
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