We don’t just provide a classroom setting; we provide a warm and compassionate place for learning for students with disabilities.
Preparing for life after high school can be daunting, especially for high school students with disabilities. Finding employment, living independently, and adjusting to new people and expectations can be tough, but they’re key to a happy and successful future. We provide an extensive transition curriculum for students with disabilities to help you flourish and achieve your dreams.
Preparing for Success
The UDS Transition School helps you live more independently and have greater confidence in your abilities. We prepare you for the future by giving you the knowledge you need to find competitive employment and become a contributing member of your community.
Working one-on-one with students in a small group setting, instructors can concentrate on each individual’s area of specific need. This creates a supportive, confidential environment for you to discuss personal challenges and make social connections.
Our instructors coordinate with public school teachers to provide support for each student’s future plans and personal goals. You’ll attend classes one day a week during the school year and receive school credit for your participation.
Transition Program Curriculum Eligibility and Cost
The UDS Transition School is intended for high school juniors and seniors. Student selection is based on public school recommendations, along with the student’s individual goals, interests, and ability to interact productively within a group structure. Enrollment is free for students who meet scholarship qualifications.
Class offerings vary by semester, but here are a few of the most commonly-available classes:
- Budgeting for the Future
- Community Resources
- Financial Management
- Independent Living Skills
- Pre-Vocational Skills
- Studying for a Driver’s Permit
- Anger Management
- Communication Skills
- Positive Assertiveness
- Social Interaction Skills
- Self Esteem
- Stress Management
- Problem Solving
- Workplace Interactions
Pre-Employment Transition Services Program (PETS)
The UDS Transition School is proud to partner with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) as a provider of PETS in Lancaster County schools. This program provides group activities and curriculum-based learning for pre-vocational skills on a variety of topics, including (but not limited to):
Pre-Vocational Skills
- Job Hunting (and How to Do it Correctly)
- Figuring Out Your Job Skill Set
- Creating a Resume and Filling Out Applications
- What Happens After You Get a Job
- Ways to Get Fired
- Handling Job & Home Stress
- Earning Good Performance Reviews
- Getting Promotions & Raises
Financial Management
- Your Relationship with Money
- Creating a Spending Plan
- Wants, Needs, & Setting Goals
- Cash Register Training and Counting Money
- Banking and Ways to Save
- The Difference Between Debit & Credit
- Identity Theft & Scams
- Comparative Shopping
- Taxes & Your Paycheck
- Renting an Apartment
If your business would like to make a difference in the lives of our students (and earn a tax credit!), check out the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC) program.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Transition School
Where is the UDS transition school located?
The UDS Transition School is located at 602 West Chestnut Street in Lancaster, PA.
Is there a high school to college transition program offered by UDS?
Yes. Our Transition School will help you flourish and achieve your dreams, whether you plan on going to college or entering the workforce.
Which Lancaster County schools are the high school transition programs offered in?
UDS Transition School classes are available to high school juniors and seniors in all Lancaster County school districts.