The Adaptive Vocational and Academic Center (AVAC) is a Joliet Township High School District program housed at Central Campus, 201 E. Jefferson Street. Eligible students from Joliet Township High School West and Central campuses attend this program.

 

          The goal of the AVAC Program is to prepare students with developmental disabilities for a successful transition into adult life. The program includes a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on community experiences, vocational preparation, independent living skills, functional academics, communication and daily living skills. These independent living skills are taught both in the classroom and in natural settings throughout the community. Curricular and community experiences are designed to allow each student to reach their maximum level of independence.

 

          When AVAC students reach the age of 16, they are referred to DRS, the Department of Rehabilitation Services. As DRS clients, students may utilize services offered at school that are partially funded through DRS, such as a job coach. Classroom instruction continues with more detail pertaining to specific employment skills and realistic work settings in the community. In addition to the classroom instruction, students receive training on-the-job in the community, facilitated by the work coordinator and job coaches. This enables the students to transfer knowledge gained from the classroom to the work site.

 

          Ongoing communication and collaboration occurs between the student, parent, school staff, employer, DRS, and other outside agencies so that upon graduation at the age of 21, students are well adjusted to work environment and community living. This helps to insure a smooth transition form school to adult life. 

 

For more information contact:

 

Becky Kemp

AVAC/PI/VI Program Coordinator

815-727-6807