With many improvements to North over the summer, one of the more significant changes is the purpose of the 3rd-floor science wing. Once an academic wing hosting science classes, now is the Grosse Pointe Transition Campus (GPTC) a program for young adults with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) who have completed high school and are learning independence and living skills, preparing them for adulthood.
Writing in an email to North Pointe, Kelley Keys, Supervisor of student services and of the GPTC program, expressed how the program benefits these young adults and how the program teaches them the skills they need as adults.
“This program bridges the gap between high school and adult life. It gives students the time and support they need to build real-world skills and confidence before moving on to adult responsibilities,” Keyes wrote. “It helps them prepare for jobs, volunteer work, independent living and participation in their communities. Most importantly, it ensures that every student has the chance to reach their fullest potential and find success in their own way.”
Kristine Kuhl, School Psychologist and GPN Special Education Department Chair, indicated in an email to North Pointe why North is lucky to have this program right here in our building. Not many schools have an engaging program like this, and Kuhl expressed why having the opportunity to grow our school in a positive direction is great.
“GPTC is at North because its previous location, Full Circle/Community Campus, moved to a new building,” Kuhl wrote. “The classrooms at their new location were not ready for the students this fall, so they needed another location.”
Not only did they just need a new location, Keyes noted, North had all the right values that this program needed to thrive. Students will get to see firsthand how great this program is.
“The program adds to the inclusive culture that already exists at Grosse Pointe North,” Keyes wrote. “North students might see program participants engaging in work-based learning opportunities around the building. In addition, some of our classrooms have developed microenterprises and make and sell delicious treats and other items.”
This program impacts a different skill set than academics — it allows these young adults to fully thrive in the world. Keyes described the different abilities they will learn to have an independent lifestyle, precisely what the program itself is aiming for. Instead of traditional academics, GPTC focuses on independence, community involvement, daily living skills, and employment readiness. Participants work on skills like managing finances, exploring job training sites, using public transportation, exploring community resources, and becoming more confident in making their own decisions.
