Living Classroom

Program Structure

The Living Classroom is a community-based transition program designed to help young adults develop the skills needed for greater independence after high school. The program is housed in the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities' Twin Tech 2.0 Home and is staffed by one teacher, one program paraprofessional, and additional one-to-one paraprofessionals as determined by each student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). Class sizes are limited to a maximum of eight students to provide individualized instruction and support.

Students participate in a combination of classroom instruction and real-world learning experiences. A typical week includes approximately three days of work experiences and community-based instruction, along with two days of instruction in the apartment setting. This balanced approach provides authentic opportunities for students to develop independent living, employment, and community participation skills.

Students We Serve

The Living Classroom serves students ages 18–21 who have completed all high school graduation requirements and are eligible to continue receiving educational services through their 22nd birthday. The program is intended for students who can live and work safely and productively in the community with adult support and who have limited behavioral concerns.  We highly encourage connection with the local board of Developmental Disabilities as well as Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.

Students participate in the program with the goal of developing transition skills that lead to integrated competitive employment, with job coaching as needed, and supported independent living opportunities. Through direct instruction and gradually fading adult support, students continue to build the independence and confidence needed for adult life.

Specialized Programming

Instruction is individualized and aligned with each student's IEP transition goals, focusing on community access and participation, independent living, employability skills, lifelong fitness and leisure, self-determination, and social relationships. Students receive direct instruction while applying these skills in authentic community settings.

Work experiences are integrated throughout the program to help students develop employability skills based on their individual preferences, interests, needs, and strengths (PINS). Students also receive direct instruction in communication, social skills, personal safety, functional academics, and adaptive behavior, with opportunities to practice and generalize these skills across a variety of environments.

The Living Classroom emphasizes collaboration with an expanded transition team, including adult service agencies, to support students and families throughout the transition to adult living. Families receive resources, strategies, and ongoing support to help ensure a successful transition beyond school. Related services are included as an integral component of the program, providing comprehensive support tailored to each student's needs.