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Our Program

BrightSteps is a program created to help neurodivergent teens and young adults prepare for the transition to life after high school.

life skills
field trips
friendship
functional math
Socialization
Vocational Training
community-based learning

Through our day program as well as one-on-one job coaching, we use classroom learning activities & community-based instruction to guide participants through the creation of a post-graduation roadmap to explore interests, develop skill sets, and meet employment goals.

What We Do

Program Calendar

Day Program:
August - May
Monday - Friday
8:30am - 2:30pm

One-On-One Coaching:
Year-Round
By appointment

Classroom

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Classroom Learning

  • Vocational Exploration & Job Readiness Skills

  • Functional Math & Literacy

  • Life Skills

  • Social-emotional Learning

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Community-Based Instruction

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  • Job Shadows & Workplace Tours

  • Informational Interviews

  • Volunteer Work

  • Community Events & Rec

  • Civic Engagement

  • Advocacy Practice

Community

A major component of our program is community-based instruction (CBI). We believe nothing beats hands-on learning. We partner with local businesses and organizations to consistently get our participants out into the community for real-world experiences.

Director

BrightSteps was founded by Jenna Stroope, a certified Education Specialist holding dual credentials in multiple subjects and special education. Graduating magna cum laude with a Masters in Teaching from the University of Southern California, Jenna began her career teaching in public school special day classes for individuals with mild/moderate disabilities. Most recently, she has been working as a special educator running a high school vocational classroom at a private academy for students with disabilities in Nashville. Her experiences working with young adults with disabilities has led her to identify a great need within the population and an opportunity to help - establishing a school-to-work transition program to create a roadmap to meaningful and fulfilling lives through employment for individuals with disabilities. 

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Connection first: when students feel safe, valued, and heard, the door opens to meaningful growth and opportunity.

Regulation over expectation: when we are in a dysregulated state, we are not available to learn. Flexibility and meeting students where they are will always be the top priority.

Student-led: our goal is to help students feel empowered. Identifying their strengths, interests, and goals is an integral part of BrightSteps.

Teaching Philosophy

Addressing the Need

post graduation roadmap

  • Over 7.5 million students in the U.S. receive special education services.

  • Schools face a shortage of qualified special educators, while the number of students with intellectual or developmental disabilities continues to grow.

  • Although transition planning is required by IDEA, many students graduate unprepared for employment and adult life.

  • Gaps in job readiness and life skills are often due to limited work experiences and inconsistent transition support.

  • Young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities experience unemployment rates up to four times higher than their peers.

  • Meaningful employment improves independence, purpose, and overall quality of life.

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