SAIL Transition Program

The SAIL (Students Achieving Independent Life) Transition Program is a post high school special education transition program available to students at Minnetonka Schools as determined by their Individual Education Plan (IEP) team. Using the IEP team process, SAIL Transition Program services support students to achieve their goals by providing specialized instruction, training, and support.

Students have access to skill-development activities designed to meet their individual needs in the five transition areas listed below:

Jobs and job training
Recreation and leisure
Community participation
Independent living
Post-secondary/Post-school planning

The SAIL program is designed to assist students in preparing for success in adult life by focusing on student and team identified transition outcomes. This program is unique in that it focuses on building skills to help transition to life after public school. Students will engage in classroom and community activities that will benefit both the student and the community. The focus for learners will be on growth in independence in living, working and acquiring new skills. High School coursework and curriculum is typically no longer appropriate for supporting student progress on individualized goals.

Direct and related services are offered onsite at the SAIL program. Students may also receive services offsite or via coordination with community, adult services and interagency relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

S.A.I.L. students and their teacher in a classroom

Below are answers to common questions about the SAIL Transition Program.

How does my young-adult child qualify for SAIL?

How are SAIL services provided?

What services does SAIL provide?

Here are some examples of the opportunities and services we offer:

Career exploration through work experience seminar and support of a Work Coordinator
Community participation through exploration and planning, both individually and within teams
Community work experience and volunteer opportunities (Limited job coach support is also available)
Post-secondary exploration, including training opportunities
Recreation and leisure, including community outings
Public transportation training, including study support for driver's permit
Skill-development activities focused on the five areas of transition and based on the individual needs of the students enrolled

Will my child receive a high school diploma if he or she participates in SAIL?

Diplomas are held for students who choose to attend SAIL. They may participate in the graduation ceremonies with their class, but they will return to school in the fall to continue their education based on the transition needs that are indicated in their IEP. Students may earn their diploma through the completion of their IEP goals, rather than the completion of credits. Once the IEP team determines that the IEP goals have been met, the student may take his or her diploma.

Ready to Enroll?

We recommend that all families start with a tour. Please click on the button below to schedule your visit.

Request a School Tour

If you have additional questions, please contact Erin Valenta by phone at 952-283-8220 or by email at erin.valenta@minnetonkaschools.org to learn more about S.A.I.L and starting the enrollment process.

Contact Us

Erin Valenta
Director of Special Education 952-283-8220
erin.valenta@minnetonkaschools.org

Location

SAIL Transition Center
19685 Highway 7
Shorewood, MN 55331

View the District Calendar

Peachjar - School Flyers

SAIL Parent and Student Handbook

S.A.I.L. Students Gain Business Experience Through Dog Treat Project

Students gained valuable, unique skills managing multiple aspects of the business. “The biggest highlight has been the ownership the students have over the business,” shared Erin Valenta. As it is a real-life product and sale, it has a different meaning to them versus a classroom simulation.”