Students in the STRIVE Program learn positive work attitudes, work ethics, and specific job and self-management skills. Students learn to become productive community members. Work experiences are usually during the school day and most are for nonpaid learning. When needed, students are provided a bus pass and receive bus training to help them gain community mobility skills as well as independence.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Students must meet the following requirements to participate in the STRIVE Program
• Attend special education classes in School District #81
• Be age 16-21 years old
• Be referred by multidisciplinary school professionals
• Show an interest and have good school attendance
• Have parental permission
• Students must have a current Individual Education Plan (IEP), which reflects career exploration within the community

Parent and Student Comments

Parent's note to the Rosauer's staff
"Not only is Joey really enjoying what he does at Rosauers, it is boosting his confidence and assurance with the public. He looks forward daily to going to work, which is a testimony of the support and kindness he encounters there."

Roger Taylor, Morning Star Boys Ranch
"STRIVE gives students support to not only gain valuable job experience, but ALSO to increase their contacts in the community. These contacts helps build their resumes."
"Communication applies to all activities including vocational. Students in STRIVE communicate daily at their worksites. These communication skills increase their abilities to get great jobs in the future."

Kat Flatherty, STRIVE student working at Shopko
"STRIVE has increased my level of responsibility."

Pat Rachels, Ferris resource student
"I have learned to cooperate."
"STRIVE has helped me get my high school diploma."

Parent of resource student
"I wish Dylan would have been in STRIVE longer. He has gained so many skills and learned so much on the job. Thank-you."