U-46 recognizes special education graduates

More than 25 students graduated this week from Elgin Area School District U-46's special education transition programs.

U-46's transition programs serve students with special needs until their 22nd birthday. They teach students independent living skills to prepare them for life, college, vocational programs and careers.

Among them is the Central Secondary Work Experience, known as SWEP, which supports students in developing everyday skills. SWEP includes training at The Diner, located within the U-46 Educational Services Center, where students learn to work a cash register and prepare food. It blends work, classroom activities and community instruction.

Center House is a ranch-style home in Elgin with various work areas. Under the supervision of teachers, students perform household chores, prepare meals, hold jobs in the community and learn how to take public transportation.

South Elgin High School's transition program offers students lessons in independent living through grocery shopping, cooking, cleaning, and maintaining a personal bank account. And the Exceptional Needs program at South Elgin High School offers medical, physical, verbal and intellectual support for students enrolled in one of the district's transition programs.

The Center House graduation ceremony was held Wednesday in the U-46 Educational Services Center auditorium, while the South Elgin High transition programs graduation was Thursday at the school.