GIFTS (Gaining Independence For Transition Success)
The GIFTS Program serves students ages 18 to 22 who qualify for special education services within the Granite School District. Students entering the GIFTS Program have not recieved their diploma, but will continue to work towards earning their diploma while in GIFTS.
GIFTS is directed by a certified teacher. Paraeducators assist students in developing vocational and "real-life" skills. The goals of the GIFTS Program is to help students prepare to take on independent adult roles.
The key components of the program are:
- Students are placed in the community at job sites where they recieve "hands on" vocational training instead of participating in a traditional classroom.
- Students focus on vocational training and life skills instead of academics.
- Mobility training is provided for all students. This includes UTA/Trax, street crossing, and Stranger Danger.
- Student driven IEP's
- Social networks
- Partnerships with businesses
- Collaboration to appropriate adult service providers