Student Transitional Education Program (STEP)

The program typically operates Monday through Friday, approximately two (2) hours per day, during the entire school year, exclusive of scheduled school holidays, vacations, and breaks.

• Students are recommended by school personnel and parents
• School collaborates with Arc to develop program for students
• Arc staff develop job sites, provide training and work experience opportunities at local county businesses to prepare students for employment
• Students spend 2 hours each day at businesses for approximately 6 weeks learning about the world of work and the rest of the day is at school
• Students “rotate” through several unpaid work experiences throughout the school year, allowing them to explore different types of vocational opportunities
• Employees at work sites provide training and mentoring to students while Arc staff visit work sites and monitor students performance
• Employers have the opportunity to observe students as potential employees
• Work experience can turn into employment while the student is in school
• The Arc can also collaborate with school districts to create a customized program for students with more intense support needs
• Employers can formally employ student participants, outside of normal program hours