Transition Program for Young Adults (TPYA)
Equipping students for life beyond the classroom is the ultimate goal of every educator. For many students with special needs, the gap between high school graduation and self-sufficiency is too great to overcome on their own.
UNCW’s Watson College is home to a Transition Program for Young Adults (TPYA) classroom. The TPYA program, a partnership with New Hanover County Schools, uses a “Community Classroom” concept to help 18-21 year-olds learn the skills necessary to make a seamless transition from school to community and adult life.
Skills Learned in TPYA Program
- Community Safety
- Money Management
- Volunteering
- Job Skills
- Transportation
- Independent Living
The TPYA classroom is located within the Education Building on the UNCW campus, giving program participants the opportunity to interact with Watson faculty, staff and students. TPYA students also have access to on-campus resources such as the Curriculum Materials Center, where they participate in special projects and learn additional skills.
Office of OPE
The Office of Partnerships and Engagement in the Watson College of Education oversees five units that engage in partnership, outreach, and collaborative activities with schools, industry, and community organizations.