Bridges Program

Postsecondary Transition – Bridges

Bridges supports students as they transition from school to the adult world. Individualized services connect students and parents to supports and opportunities that promote skill development, self-advocacy, and independence. It is a dynamic partnership involving young adults, families, staff, agencies, and the community through shared participation and responsibility. Services are flexible and tailored to students’ individual needs.

Planning for Life After High School

Transition planning is part of a student’s IEP before they reach the age for the Bridges program. Colorado requires transition planning in an IEP by age 15 or the end of ninth grade, whichever comes first. The IEP team may begin earlier when appropriate and revisits the plan each year.

Planning considers the student’s strengths, preferences, interests and individual needs. Goals may address postsecondary education, vocational training, employment, continuing education, adult services, independent living and community participation.

Coordinating Transition Activities

Depending on the student’s goals and needs, a transition plan may include:

Instruction and related services.
Community experiences.
Preparation for employment and adult living activities.
Daily living skills or functional vocational education, when appropriate.

Preparing Early for Adult Services

Early, long-range planning helps students and families:

Identify goals for life after high school and develop a plan to reach them.
Choose high school experiences that build the skills needed for those goals.
Connect with post-school services, supports or programs before leaving the school system.

College support services and adult-service programs may have eligibility requirements, paperwork or waiting lists. Starting early gives families time to gather information, complete applications and plan for a smoother transition.

Why Bridges?

Bridges provides additional support as students adjust to the adult environment and gain independence. It serves as a bridge from the secure world of the classroom to the adult world.

We focus on three guiding questions:

Where do you want to be when you leave Academy District 20?
How can we help you get there?
What long-term supports do you need?

Who Is Eligible?

Any student with an individualized educational plan (IEP) is eligible. The young adult must be 18 to 21 years old, live in Academy District 20, and have met high school or individual graduation requirements.

Services Offered

Adult Service Agency Connections

Assistance connecting with agencies that offer long-term support services to young adults in the community
Contracting with adult agencies based on student needs

Community and Social Opportunities

Varies according to individual needs
Participation in life skill activities
Exploration of community connections
Development and participation in recreational activities with peers
Access to transportation options

Career Development

Career skill activities related to personal growth and relational development
Expanded volunteer work experiences
Exploration of potential career opportunities
Resume and job application assistance
Short-term job coaching
Assistance with requesting job accommodations

Postsecondary Educational Opportunities

Bridges workshops
Connection to support services at college

What Is Social Graduation?

Social graduation allows students to participate in the traditional graduation ceremony. However, the official diploma is granted when the student exits Bridges. The transcript remains open, enabling students to earn one elective credit per semester.