News: Illinois High School Offers Assisted Learning Vocational Program for Young Adults with Autism

Belleville Township High School District 201 in Southern Illinois provides a vocational training program for young adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Students learn social skills, communication, and job skills while being paid to do valuable work. The Assisted Learning Vocational Program has placed students with 17 employers - the goal is that after training, these students will be placed in full time positions. Christine Gooding, the vocational coordinator, works with community businesses to place people in jobs where they are most comfortable. For example, an animal clinic hired a student after her year of vocational training, because she works well with animals and has connected with fellow employees. "We have students who have the ability to work in a competitive environment," Gooding said. "They just need a little extra coaching and training."

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