At Focus Academy, education extends far beyond the classroom. Through hands-on learning and community experiences, students build the confidence and practical skills needed for life after graduation. For Transition students, ages 18 to 22, the program centers on one main goal: preparing each young adult to take meaningful steps toward independence.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Transition students at Focus Academy apply their classroom lessons to real-world settings. The program blends academics, life skills, and work experience to help students navigate adulthood with confidence. Teachers and job coaches collaborate to guide each student based on their individual strengths, interests, and goals.

In the classroom, students tackle essential life skills like budgeting, cooking, communication, and time management. For example, students might learn how to create a monthly budget, plan a grocery list, or prepare a simple meal. These lessons prepare them for daily tasks and build problem-solving and decision-making skills.

Students also learn why these skills matter. When they practice budgeting, they’ll discuss saving money for something special or planning for a future goal. By connecting each lesson to something meaningful, students stay more engaged and motivated to learn.

Community-Based Training (CBT): Learning Through Experience

A key aspect of the Transition Program is Community-Based Training, or CBT. These training experiences take students into local businesses, like the Florida Aquarium and MOSI, where they can gain hands-on job experience. CBT placements allow students to explore different career paths, learn professional skills, and build confidence in new environments.

Students might assist with stocking shelves, organizing materials, greeting customers, or completing office tasks. CBT reinforces lessons learned in school. A unit on workplace etiquette becomes real when students practice it in front of customers or coworkers. Counting money becomes practical when they’re figuring out how much change a customer should receive at Focus Cafe.

All CBT experiences are supported by Focus staff and job coaches. These staff members ensure that each student feels comfortable, prepared, and successful. They also work closely with community partners to design meaningful experiences that align with students’ transition goals.

The Power of Community Partnerships

The success of our Transition Program depends on strong partnerships with local businesses and organizations. These partners give students real opportunities to apply their learning in meaningful ways while also helping build a more inclusive community. Employers often report that working with Focus students has a positive impact on their teams, fostering greater empathy and teamwork in the workplace.

Focus Academy continues to welcome new community partners who want to make a difference. By opening doors for students, local businesses help create a network of support that encourages growth and opportunity for everyone involved.

Preparing for the Future

By the time students complete the Transition Program, they leave Focus Academy with far more than work experience. They carry the pride, skills, and independence needed to take the next step toward adulthood. Whether that path leads to employment, continued education, or supported living, Focus students move forward with purpose and pride.

Through real-world learning, supportive guidance, and strong community partnerships, Focus helps every student move toward a future filled with confidence, connection, and possibility.
Is Focus Academy the next step for your student? To learn more about Focus Academy, schedule a tour or start the application process today!