We are a vocational program dedicated to helping students develop practical life skills, with instruction tailored to each student’s unique learning style and personal goals. Our program emphasizes the arts and supports students in building greater independence.
Our Program Focuses on Helping Young Adults:
Independent Living & Daily Life
- Develop daily living skills to increase independence or interdependence
- Live safely and independently at home or connect families with supported living programs
- Manage money and plan for the future
- Stay safe and make healthy choices
- Navigate transportation and community travel
Personal Growth & Well-being
- Gain practical knowledge for real-world success
- Understand and manage emotions
- Speak up for themselves through self-advocacy
- Continue learning and growing through skill-building
Social & Communication Skills
- Build social connections and healthy relationships
- Develop meaningful relationships and networks
- Communicate effectively in all settings
Employment Preparation
- Prepare for the workforce with employable skills and Supported Employment training through the ARC of St. Johns
Engage with the Community in Meaningful Ways
- Students participate in volunteer projects, community events, and partnerships that foster a sense of purpose and belonging.
- Connect with local resources for lifelong support
- We help students and families navigate services and supports that can extend well beyond the school setting.
- Explore enrichment opportunities that inspire Growth
- From our Art Transcends Boundaries program to SurfQuest and hands-on digital arts classes, students discover new passions and creative outlets.
We’re a hands-on program focused on building employability through work-based learning, real-world community experiences, and classroom instruction. Our goal is to help students develop the skills, confidence, and independence they need for life after high school—including exploring college and career pathways.
Our Program Focuses on Helping Young Adults:
Real-World Work Experience
- Job shadowing and site visits
- Hands-on internships and work-based learning
- Travel training and how to use public transportation
- Support in connecting with adult service agencies
Job & Life Skills for the Workplace
- Writing resumes that stand out
- Practicing interview skills with confidence
- Finding and applying for jobs that match their interests
- Handling challenges and resolving conflicts on the job
- Personal hygiene, dressing for success, and self-care
- Staying safe in the community and online
- Using professional language in the workplace
Exploring Life After High School
- Touring colleges, training programs, and apprenticeships
- Learning about disability support services on campus
- Help with applications and next steps
- Understanding financial aid and scholarships
- Discovering career pathways through apprenticeships
- Weekly community enrichment and engagement opportunities give students a chance to explore new interests and build meaningful connections for leisure and recreation beyond high school.
Pathways to Post-Secondary Education
- Life Work students have the opportunity to apply to Dual or Secondary Enrollment classes at First Coast Technical College or St. Johns River State College
- We have a one-year transition pathway helping students with disabilities prepare to apply for fulltime college coursework at a partner college (FCTC or SJRSC) or a Florida Postsecondary Transition Program (FPCTP).
