Every young adult deserves the chance to make choices and confidently step into the world. At Academic and Behavior School (ABS) West, the Adult Transition Program is built on the belief that with the right support, students with disabilities can lead independent, fulfilling lives.  

The program follows a three-pronged approach throughout the school year to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. It begins with setting a foundation where educators equip students with essential functional skills like communication and self-advocacy, which builds their faith in expressing themselves and navigating daily interactions. From there, the focus shifts to independent living and teaching practical life skills such as financial literacy, grocery shopping and mastering laundry to help students manage their own households.  

“Even though we have some students that are nonverbal, they are visual learners and can still do what we are asking,” Adult Transition Teacher Priscilla Bradshaw said. “They just need some coaching and what we call shadowing, where we don’t hesitate to step in and show them. We work beside students to help them understand what they are supposed to be doing.”  

Nearly 10 scholars have recently moved into the employment preparation phase, which guides them to meaningful job prospects that align with their abilities and interests. ABS West partners with community businesses like the Houston Food Bank and Goodwill to offer a low-risk environment where students can train in various positions at their own speed. Through volunteering, students are working jobs that reinforce what they are learning on campus, such as folding clothes, sorting products and communicating with their peers.  

“I love bringing them here, and it’s rewarding because I’ve seen them grow academically and behaviorally,” Bradshaw said. “They’ve learned a lot from August to now, and hopefully, they continue building on these skills until they graduate and see that employment is possible.”   

The Adult Transition Program is offered at both of Harris County Department of Education’s Academic and Behavior campuses. Students aged 14-22 are eligible for the program through their Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is monitored by their home districts.