STRIVE

(Supported Training to Reach Independence Through Vocational Experiences)

Mission Statement

The Mission of STRIVE is to support the Boston Public Schools' “Acceleration Agenda” by exploring and providing inclusive pre-vocational, vocational and transitional services to high school students, ages 18-22, with unique physical and learning needs as they transition from high school to adulthood.

History

More than 35 years ago, STRIVE began as a grant-funded program where special education teachers provided vocational experiences and transitional services to high school students with disabilities.  As a result of the initial success of the program, STRIVE currently receives district funding.  To this day, STRIVE continues to expand vocational and transitional opportunities that it provides to students.

Our Students

STRIVE student’s come from a variety of backgrounds and neighborhoods in Boston and each student comes with a variety of unique learning needs. They participate in substantially separate educational settings or have been identified as a "student in need" by Directors of Special Education. This may include students who are not diploma-bound, students who did not meet local graduation requirements, or students who have not passed state required assessment tests after multiple attempts.  All of our students need assistance in the transition process from high school to their individualized postsecondary options.

STRIVE Goals

• Facilitate and support career planning, job placement, and transitional services

• Utilize functional, age-appropriate employment training models

• Facilitate collaboration among students, families, schools, social service agencies, and community resources

• Empower students to determine their futures through informed goal-directed decision-making

• Assist and motivate students to develop their potential as successful employees and citizens

• Support the Acceleration Agenda to ensure that STRIVE students transition to adulthood prepared for their career success

• Align the appropriate adult service agencies before the students exit high school

• Develop transferrable employability skills