supports the belief that people with disabilities have the right to live and work in the most normal, least restrictive setting as is consistent with their abilities, and that they should be afforded the same dignity and rights as all other citizens. Our comprehensive curriculum is designed to encourage the individual's emotional and spiritual growth, improve on family and social relationships, an
d increase community involvement. The LIFE Program includes a wide range of experiences that promote knowledge and skill interactions believed to be essential for adult independent living (Brolin, 1989). At present, many students with handicaps have special needs that are not being met. These students require education and support to learn these necessary behaviors. They must be able to dress and groom properly, use appropriate table manners, make decisions about money, and use transportation to get to work. The major skill areas that need to be addressed are Emotional /and Psychological Skills, Independent Daily Living Skills, Personal Development Skills, Social Skills/Social Competence Skills, and Vocational/Occupational Skills. Each component of the program is specifically designed to “bridge the gaps” that other programs were not able to effectively connect. Whether the piece is psychological, academic, or emotional, the LIFE Program is a multi-faceted program designed to empower each person with all of the tools needed to fit all of the pieces together; so that each person will attain the goal of this program; that is Living Independently, Functioning Effectively.
