D.R.E.A.M. Transition Academy

                       

Mission

Aligning with the mission of Rocky Hill Public Schools, the DREAM Transition Academy strives to provide a rich environment connected to the community. Students are empowered to explore diverse interests and opportunities. They are encouraged to grow and become productive citizens able to achieve their greatest potential.


Vision

The DREAM Transition Academy assists young adults and their families through the transition from high school to postsecondary activities such as postsecondary education, vocational education, supported employment, adult services, independent living, life skills, and community participation.

The DREAM Transition Academy

The DREAM Transition Academy is a post-secondary program for young adults ages 18-22 during their transition from school to adulthood. Students are recommended for this program through the PPT, and individual programs are created through an IEP. Instruction, community-based experiences, and internship opportunities are focused on independent living, continuing education, employment, community awareness, social skills, and self-advocacy skills. Each student is provided their own Chromebook to use for class assignments, as well as completing their resumes, cover letters and other job related materials. Our speech and language pathologist works in conjunction with our team to facilitate lessons in regards to communication in the workplace and community settings. Our social worker works with students in social groups, and individually depending on their needs. Students are also able to participate in an art class, if they choose, as an area of interest and exploration.
https://www.rockyhillps.com/dreamcafe

Click the image above to learn about the Dream Café

CONTACT

Transition Coordinator

Ian Learned 

860-258-2729

Social Worker

Domonique Parkins

860-258-2729

Speech and Language Pathologist

Rachel Portal 

860-258-2729

Nurse 

Jasmin Flores

860-258-2729

Job Coaches:

Barbara Barry

Lisa Bielesz

Tim Kuta

Lisa Muzio

Andrew Oddo

Amy Thorne

Current Job Sites

  • DREAM Cafe
  • Rocky Hill Senior Center
  • Cora Belden Library 
  • Uptown Consignments
  • Goodwill 
  • Chick-Fil-A
  • Sunny Farms
  • Walgreens
  • CVS
  • Pet Supplies Plus
  • Price Chopper

Favorite Community Outings

  • Dave and Busters

  • Lessard Lanes

  • Avery Soda

  • Pistol Creek 

  • Berlin Theater 

  • Ikea 

  • Lyman Orchard

  • Northwest Park 

  • Peabody Museum

Daily Schedule Examples

Morning Meeting

Lesson of the Day

Prepare for Work 

Work at Job Sites

Lunch 

Social Skills Development

Closing Activity

Student Quotes

“I got a job at Sunny Farms. Thank you guys for everything!”- Dillon Cerpa ‘21 Graduate

 

“My favorite things about the transition academy are going to Pistol Creek for the parties with the other academies, and my jobs at Uptown Consignment and Goodwill”. - Marc LaPuma