Next Step Transition Program

Transitions, located in Cottage Grove, Minnesota, is a specialized educational program operating under the umbrella of the South Washington County Schools (District 833). The program is specifically designed for students with special needs, typically those between the ages of 18 and 21, who have completed their high school graduation requirements but require additional support to transition into adulthood. The primary focus of the facility is to bridge the gap between high school and independent living, providing a structured environment where students can continue to develop essential life skills.

The curriculum at Transitions is highly individualized and emphasizes community-based instruction, vocational training, and functional academics. Rather than a traditional classroom setting, the program works to prepare students for the realities of post-secondary life by focusing on skills such as career exploration, personal finance, social interaction, and independent living tasks. By partnering with local businesses and community organizations, Transitions aims to foster greater independence and self-sufficiency, ensuring that students are equipped with the practical tools necessary to successfully integrate into their communities after aging out of the public school system.