Tahoma and Kent School Districts Partner for Inclusive Celebration at Greater Maple Valley Community Center

Friday, May 17, the Tahoma School District Student Transition Program hosted Kent School District’s Transition Program for its annual collaborative gala at the Greater Maple Valley Community Center. Young adults from both districts– whose transition programs support young adults ages 18-21 experiencing mental and/or physical disabilities– danced the night away at their annual celebration that started in the 2021-22 school year.

Tahoma’s Student Transition Program serves as a bridge between the K-12 education system and adult life for students receiving special services. The young adults in the program create goals, and their families and Tahoma educators partner to ensure the students are getting the support they need. The program’s vision is to provide continuing education for post high school students with disabilities to live their adult lives as productive, independent, and engaged community members. The gala is an end-of-year opportunity to celebrate the students, some of whom will graduate this June, and provide an opportunity to meet students from another district who have shared experiences.

Many students in the Transition Program participate in school to work programs, where they get unique intern job training in local retail and non-profits, including the Community Center.

The Greater Maple Valley Community Center serves as an inclusive community hub, hosting programs and services that increase the opportunity for connections, engagement, and growth for greater Maple Valley. The Community Center also serves as a job site for the Transition Program, where students will serve meals to seniors, greet staff and guests, bus tables and support community access events.