Life Design is a special program for students who are ready for a greater level of independence in the community. Although it is part of the South Valley School program, it is housed on the Salt Lake Community College campus in West Jordan. Students, parents, and staff work together to plan programs and activities allowing students to reach maximum independence. During the first quarter, students learn to write a person-centered plan, choose their IEP goals, and lead their own IEP meetings. Students continue to work on academic skills but also learn to independently access public transportation, as well as how to apply, interview, get and keep a job. There is also an emphasis on giving back through volunteerism in the community. Students also work on earning high school credits and many receive a diploma from Southpointe Adult High School or Valley High School. Our Academic Job Center is also based in our Life Design program. Our AJC students are working exclusively on finishing up the graduation requirements to receive a diploma. AJC students attend one day a week to check in with their teacher and update their progress.
Teachers
- Daphne Castor - Team Leader LDA, AJC
- Eric Slaymaker - Team Leader LDB
- Eddie Torres - ESP
- Sheila LeBaron - ESP
- Stephanie Rannus - ESP
- Ana Tucunduva - ESP
- Holly Holt - ESP PT
Students of the Month - October
Class LDA Castor - Spencer DeYoung
Spencer is the real deal when it comes to being an Empathetic Communicator. As a peer mentor at the aquarium job site, he's always listening and sharing his own ideas to help the group out. This month, he went above and beyond helping his classmates present the animal coverings — encouraging them, keeping things positive, and working through any bumps along the way. Spencer leads with kindness, and we're lucky to have him. Congrats, Spencer!
Class LDB Slaymaker - Mark Mecham
Mark has made huge strides this year. He is becoming great friend with his peers. Mark is learning to be more empathetic by listening to his peers and hearing others ideas. Mark shows kindness everyday at school and while serving at the institute. Congratulations Mark!
