It was a night of celebration for 18 students graduating from the Advance and Gateway programs as they were honored in front of friends, family, and staff during a graduation ceremony held at the Pioneer Park Pavilion on June 12.

Advance and Gateway serve as transition programs for adult students with disabilities. Planning with the end in mind, the Advance and Gateway programs focus on competitive/supported employment, volunteer opportunities, community participation, recreation and leisure and, when appropriate, daily living skills.  The community is our classroom!  

"All of these young people have stepped out of their comfort zone to build skills, and we're really proud of them," said Advance teacher Gary Jeffers.

A special acknowledgement and recognition was given to community partners who participate in the transition process. They provide job training sites and performance evaluations for the students as part of their vocational education.  Other community partners provide job development and employment stabilization for students transitioning into employment after graduation.

Students graduating from the program are linked to all available services for which they are eligible. A reception with cake was held following the ceremony.