Preparing students for life beyond high school includes creating meaningful, real-world opportunities to build independence, confidence, and job-ready skills. The Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD) Adult Transition program, which serves adult students with disabilities ages 18 to 21, helps develop essential life skills for a healthy and independent adulthood. In collaboration with WorkAbility and the Transition Partnership Program, the program coordinates structured work-based learning opportunities that support the development of employment-related competencies. These efforts align with state and national initiatives, including Employment First and the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA).
The Excellence in Education Foundation was proud to award a $1,680 grant in support of the program.
Grant funding will be used to enhance and expand work-based learning through the Transition Café, a student-led coffee cart business operated out of the Adult Transition classroom that serves the TTUSD District Office community. The funding supports the purchase of equipment and supplies designed to increase accessibility, participation, and long-term sustainability of the café.
The grant funded the purchase of a cappuccino and hot chocolate machine, allowing students to participate in drink preparation. Additional funding was used to purchase drink supplies, adjustable bib aprons, customizable magnetic name tags, and more.
Participation in the Transition Café provides opportunities for students to practice employment-related skills, including planning and responsibility, money management, operational planning, fine motor development, and social interaction. The café also provides a setting for students to engage with professional peers within the district community.
From the first pour to the final sip, the Transition Café brings work-based learning to life, and we’re so excited to help fuel it!