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Portland Public School

Community - Inquiry - Agency

Portland Pathways to Transition Program

Portland Pathways to Transition Program

Portland is proud to offer a comprehensive transition program for young adults with disabilities--Portland Pathways to Transition Program (PPTP)! 

What are Transition Services? 

Once a student with a disability has completed the academic requirements of high school, they may be eligible to continue receiving special education services until the end of the school year in which they turn 22. This extended time is dedicated entirely to Transition Services—a crucial period focused on preparing them for a successful adult life. The goal PPTP is simple: to help young adults move from the structure of high school to the independence of post-school life in the areas of employment, further education/training, and independent living.

What Makes This Program Different?

PPTP is not like traditional high school. It shifts the focus from academic credits to functional, real-world skills, with instruction often delivered in the community rather than solely in the classroom. Services are based on the student’s unique strengths, interests, and their goals for life after school (as documented in their Individualized Education Program, or IEP).

Where is PPTP housed? 

Our program is currently housed at Portland High School though most of the instruction occurs in community settings. Beginning in the 26-27 school year, the program will move to 296 Main Street to a comprehensive community setting with dedicated conference space, individual student work areas

Key Areas of Instruction

Our program provides direct instruction and supported practice in the following essential life domains:

  1. Vocational & Employment Skills

This area focuses on finding, getting, and keeping a job. We offer hands-on experiences and instruction to build confidence and skills for the workplace.

  • Job Search Training: Practicing how to fill out applications, writing resumes, and mastering interview skills

  • Work Readiness: Learning professional communication, working as part of a team, being on time, and accepting feedback

  • Community-Based Work Experience: PPTP provides supported work placements at local businesses with a job coach. Some of our community partners include: Adams Market, Le Chic Boutique, Walgreens, the Portland Food Bank, and Sliceworks Pizza. 

  1. Daily Living & Independent Living Skills

These services teach the skills needed to manage a home and personal life, enabling greater independence in the community.

  • Money Management: Learning to budget, use a bank account, track expenses, and manage a debit card

  • Household Management: Practicing meal preparation, grocery shopping, doing laundry, and maintaining a clean living space

  • Health & Safety: Instruction in medication management, scheduling medical appointments, and understanding emergency procedures

  1. Further Education & Training

For students whose post-school goal includes college, trade school, or other training, the program helps them prepare for success in a post-secondary environment

  • Self-Advocacy: Teaching students how to understand their disability, articulate their needs, and request accommodations (like those covered by a 504 Plan) in an adult setting

  1. Community Integration & Leisure

We support students in becoming active, engaged members of their local community.

  • Travel Training: Learning to safely navigate public transportation routes or paratransit services

  • Recreation: Exploring local recreational centers, libraries, and social opportunities to build a supportive community network

  • Social Skills: 

Resources: 

COMING SOON → Please see the brochure below for a comprehensive look at PPTP and its staff.