P.I.E.C.E. Transition Program

ELIGIBILITY

High School students in grades 9-12 are eligible for transition services through the Postsecondary Innovation and Entrepreneurial Career Education (P.I.E.C.E.) Program. Students ages 18-22 may be eligible for continued services if they are eligible for special education services and still need to earn High School Credits. 

ABOUT US 

The Post-secondary Innovation and Entrepreneurial Career Education (P.I.E.C.E.)  program prioritizes the development of employability skills and helps students achieve their highest level of independence. The program fosters community integration through internal and external work experiences and life skills development. Our staff works with students to encourage self-advocacy, build self-confidence, and prepare for an intentional and fulfilling life after AZACS.  

OUR MISSION

To empower students with autism and other neurodiversities to design their future, engage in meaningful work, and become fulfilled, productive citizens.  

OUR WORK

To provide students with vocational skills, career-based STEAM courses, supported employment, and other career readiness opportunities to help students identify a path toward meaningful employment or advanced education after High School.

DATA-DRIVEN PROGRAM & HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS

Instruction will continue to support academic needs and the completion of high school credits. In addition, instructional areas may include employment skills, college or vocational program preparation, and ensuring readiness for selected post-secondary opportunities. A robust data collection process will guide each student’s transition plan, including ambitious goals to achieve their plans. 

STEAM & ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Students will have the opportunity to work in student-led businesses and learn real-world entrepreneurial skills. They may spend time working in the Essential Piece Enterprises, which includes our cafe, shirt production studio, and our shipping/receiving store. Additionally, Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) will provide students with additional workforce readiness skills using the WozEd curriculum. This curriculum includes coding, animation, and robotics courses to prepare students for in-demand jobs. 

EDUCATION & TRAINING 

Our staff works with students to determine the best path and action steps toward their post-secondary goals. This can include certification programs, vocational programs, community colleges, or four-year universities. Students will learn the pre-requisite skills necessary to engage in their next chapter. 

VOCATIONAL & SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT TRAINING 

Student skills and interests are considered while determining future internships or employment opportunities. Through AZACS internal businesses at Essential Piece Enterprises, which include a cafe, a shirt production studio, and a shipping/receiving store, students will gain hands-on work experience in a supportive environment. External internships will also be available for students ready to apply their skills at a professional job site. During class time, students will work on building their resume, job interviewing skills, developing “soft skills,” professional dress and appearance, and engaging in simulated work experiences. All of these activities will be adjusted to each student’s developmental level. 

INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS 

This skill set includes a broad scope of skills necessary for adult life ranging from preparing food to managing personal finances. Topics include: Healthcare needs, housekeeping, budgeting, leisure activities, functional academics, technology, and online safety.

For more information on the P.I.E.C.E. Transition Program, contact Angela Kennedy at akennedy@autismcharter.org