Transition to High School Program

What is the Transition to High School Program?

Our Transition to High School program (THS) is a program for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. It was developed to help students move into and navigate the first two years of high school.

Is the Transition to High School Program right for your child?

This program is right for your child if they:

• are a low to moderate support needs individual with ASD;
• are in grades 7-10;
• are a Hamilton resident;
• wants to socialize and learn with others;
• are able to participate in group activities without 1:1 support;
• are willing to complete lesson style work in a classroom setting;
• can engage in safe behaviour in a group and community setting;
• are able to toilet independently; and
• are able to move independently.

What is the focus of the Transition to High School Program?

The focus of this program is to prepare students aged 12-15 with ASD in navigating the high school world. This program combines classroom style lessons with recreational and social opportunities. This creates an enriching and engaging environment to help prepare teens for this next step in their lives.

Key topics covered in the program include:

• conversations with peers;
• bullying;
• zones of regulation (fostering self-regulation and emotional control);
• group/team work;
• being in the community;
• hygiene for high school;
• time management;
• following directions;
• handling disagreements;
• money handling; and
• much more!

Where is the Transition to High School Program located?

The program is located at the Mischa Weisz Centre, 1900 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4R8

When does Transition to High School Program take place?

This program runs in 8-week blocks. There are two different group sessions that begin in February 2020. Group composition will take into consideration age, individual needs and best fit.

Program dates will be confirmed closer to the beginning of the program.

Junior program (Grades 7, 8)

Thursday evenings

Lesson Nights: 4 pm – 6 pm.

Community outing nights: 6 pm – 8:30 pm.

Senior program (Grades 9, 10)

Thursday evenings

Lesson Nights: 4 pm – 6 pm.

Community outing nights: 6 pm – 8:30 pm.

What does the Transition to High School Program cost?

The majority of this program is subsidized.

Additional costs are $200.00 for the 8-week session (includes program and activity costs).

Before and after care may be available for an additional fee.

How do I refer my child for the Transition to High School Program?

To make a referral to the program please connect with Contact Hamilton at (905) 570-8888.

For additional information or to contact the program directly, please contact Bianca Aceti, Program Coordinator at: (905) 527-9771 ext. 180.