NHS Transition Program Preparing for Life Outside of the Classroom In Florida, student with disabilities can attend
Through Friday improv classes held at the Sug-
“We’ve seen our group come closer together
den Theater, a class of about 18 students also
because they’re working hand in hand through
developed their expressions, their comfortabil-
improv,” said Wexler, who coordinates the group
ity with other students and their socialization
at the high school. “It’s been a neat experience.”
skills, all under the guise of fun.
high school through the age of 22. The extra time helps them prepare for a life outside the structure of a classroom setting. For those on the Autism spectrum, the Career Transition and Experience program at Naples High School can also be a valuable way to learn how to socialize with adults in the workplace. “We help them transition into society by assisting with life skills and everything that goes on when any student graduates from high school or college and begins that search for employment,” program coordinator Mike Wexler said. The program does this through volunteer work opportunities throughout the county where students might bag groceries or wipe down restaurant menus. But when students began doing light office work at The Naples Players to develop career skills, they also got to step on stage as part of the leisure component of the program.
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Craig Price teaches an Improv for Wellness Class to Naples High School
