Southside Occupational Acad HS

Southside Occupational Academy High School (SOA), located in the West Englewood neighborhood of Chicago, is a specialized Chicago Public School designed exclusively to serve students with diverse learning needs. Unlike a traditional academic high school, Southside Occupational focuses on transition services for students ages 18 to 22 who have completed their required high school credits but require additional support to prepare for life after graduation. The school provides a structured environment where students work on developing functional life skills, social competencies, and vocational readiness.

The curriculum at Southside Occupational is highly individualized, emphasizing "Community-Based Instruction" to help students transition into the workforce or adult day programs. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences, including pre-vocational training, work-based learning opportunities, and daily living skills instruction. By partnering with local businesses and organizations, the school strives to foster independence, self-advocacy, and inclusion, ensuring that its students are well-equipped to contribute to their communities and navigate the adult world with confidence.