18+ PROGRAM

The 18+ Program located at 1113 E South Street in Hastings, Nebraska, is a specialized educational initiative designed to support young adults who have completed their traditional high school requirements but require further transition services. Typically serving students with disabilities who are eligible for continued special education support under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the program focuses on bridging the gap between secondary education and independent adulthood.

The curriculum is primarily centered on functional life skills, vocational training, and community integration. Instead of a traditional classroom setting, students in the 18+ program often participate in hands-on activities that foster self-advocacy, financial literacy, social communication, and job readiness. By working closely with local community partners and focusing on individualized goals, the program aims to equip students with the tools necessary to live as independently as possible, secure meaningful employment, and successfully navigate their post-school environments.