Transition from School to Active Life (TSAL)
The TSAL process serves as a bridge between school life and active life for students with special needs. It focuses on their strengths, needs, and goals to plan a smooth transition to independence, with or without support.
Katelyn Clow Coordinator - Special Education
It is designed for secondary school students who:
- Have a physical impairment or an intellectual disability
- Present with autism spectrum disorder or a pervasive developmental disorder
- Live with significant mental health challenges
- Are at least 15 years old
- Are about three years away from finishing school
- Students:
Express their interests, set personal goals, and actively participate in the program activities.
- Parents or guardians:
Attend meetings, work with school staff, and support their child at home.
- School staff:
Coordinate the process, liaise with families and partners, and monitor students’ progress.
A well-structured TSAL transition plan aims to:
- Ensure service continuity between school and adult life
- Promote close cooperation between the school, family, and community
- Prevent the loss of skills by offering meaningful activities
- Offer a personalized learning path rooted in students’ individual goals
Transition Process Steps
This provides opportunities to:
- Identify students’ personal interests
- Plan short- and long-term goals
- Assess students’ progress regularly
This allows students to:
- Explore different work environments
- Develop social, community, and professional skills
During this three-year program, students can take advantage of:
- Social, recreational, and community-based activities
- Traineeships and volunteer opportunities
- Summer jobs