Minnetonka Public Schools launched its Students Achieving Independent Life (S.A.I.L.) transition program on September 8, providing young people with special needs, ages 18-21, with life and career training and guidance.

S.A.I.L. affords students the opportunity to continue their educational programming within the local community. Coursework will focus on developing skills and connections for life after high school. More than 30 students will begin the school year as part of the inaugural program.

“The S.A.I.L program is an important step forward for Minnetonka Schools in increasing the opportunities and providing an even stronger gateway to success for our students who are transitioning to independent life,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Dennis Peterson. “We have some amazing community partners and leaders who are supporting this effort, and we are grateful for their partnership.”

The S.A.I.L. building is uniquely designed to support transition education and includes a greenhouse, kitchen space, a video production studio and other learning labs for skill development, as well as a complete model apartment. The program is designed to assist students in preparing for success in adult life by focusing on student and team identified transition outcomes. Students will have access to skill-development activities designed to meet their needs for job and career training, recreation and leisure, community participation, independent living and post-secondary/post-school planning.

Community partnerships are a key element of the educational program, said Christine Breen, executive director of special education for Minnetonka Schools.

“Students will engage in classroom and community activities that will benefit both SAIL students and the community. The focus for learners will be on growth in independence in living, working and acquiring new skills,” Breen said.

For more information, visit www.minnetonkaschools.org/SAIL