Life Academy–Bridging the Gap Between School and Life’s Next Journey
Once students turn 21, they exit the high school system and they "fall off the cliff" as there are minimal post-secondary options available for adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). In looking at the next steps of natural post-secondary options including educational, employment, residential, social activities, and vocational training, the IDD population is greatly underserved.
Journey21 is bridging the gap by providing a highly structured After 21 curriculum (two year program-32 courses) called the Life Academy where our adults will receive career readiness training, participate in internships/work experiences learning specific job skills, continue developing their independent living skills, socialization skills and building community relationships.
The five core areas of the Life Academy include:
Personal Finances - monthly budget, savings/checking accounts, saving vs. spending, paying bills, keeping your finances safe, etc.
Employment/Vocational Skills - soft skills, setting goals, preparing for interviews, work etiquette, etc.
Social Skills and Relationship Building - self-awareness, self-advocacy, dealing with feelings, etc.
Health, Wellness, and Safety - basic hygiene, nutrition, creating a Wellness Plan, self-care, self defense, etc.
Independent Daily Living Skills - living on my own, grocery shopping, cleaning, food storage and safety, etc.
Application for next year’s Life Academy now open!
Applications for the Life Academy for Fall 2024/Spring 2025 school year is available. Applications can be mailed to: Journey21, Attn: Heidi Hamilton, 1671 Old School House Road, Oconomowoc, WI 53066.
Please contact Heidi Hamilton, heidihamilton@journey21.org, if you have any questions on the application or admission process.
The Life Academy In Action
Interested in learning more about the Life Academy?
Interested in becoming a Journey21 Partner?
Who is leading the Life Academy?
Heidi Hamilton, Program and Enrichment Center Director
Heidi was a Special Education teacher and Transition Coordinator at Arrowhead High School in Hartland, Wisconsin, for 29 years. Growing up with a younger brother who has special needs, she developed a passion for helping students/adults with special needs transition into the workforce and adult life.