Reaching young adulthood can be a challenging time for special needs students and the parents who love them. Questions abound. Will I get a job? Will I live on my own? How much independence will I have? At MDE Vocational Academy, we are here to help you navigate this new chapter.
Our Mission
Our mission is to help young adults with special needs, age 16 and above, maximize their independence and meet their full potential through vocational and life skills training.
Our Approach
At MDE Vocational Academy, we are passionate about helping young adults with special needs discover their talents and interests while nurturing their independence. Students will train across various job areas to find the job types they are best suited for and enjoy.
Program Features
- Career exploration
- Vocational skills taught for a variety of job fields
- Supported work opportunities supervised by MDE Vocational Academy coaches
- Social and communication skills
- Task analysis
- Interview and job search skills
- Safety
Vocational Training
At MDE Vocational Academy, young adults will gain hands-on experience that helps them learn job skills across various fields. We offer job training in the following area: food service, grocery, clerical, retail, and maintenance.
Independent Living Skills
Whether the goal is to take on more responsibility for self-care at home or live independently someday, MDE Vocational Academy helps every student reach their maximum potential for autonomy and self-reliance. Each student receives training tailored to their unique skills and goals.
Program Features
- Executive functioning skills – time management, organizing, prioritizing, regulating emotions
- Laundry, meal preparation, nutrition, cleaning
- Problem-solving
- Critical thinking
- Personal hygiene
- Responsibility and integrity
- Attitude and demeanor
- Independent living skills
- Personal financial management
Coaches
MDE Vocational Academy employs dedicated coaches to help your student reach their full potential. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment where students thrive and grow.
Community Involvement
MDE Vocational Academy is teaming up with great local companies to provide students with real-life vocational skills training.
More Information
If you are interested in learning more about our program or enrolling, please reach out to the Program Director, Mindy Elkan, at 770-971-4633