Farmington Valley Transition Academy

The Farmington Valley Transition Academy (FVTA) is a collaborative program through the Simsbury and Farmington Public Schools. FVTA serves students with developmental disabilities between the ages of 18-22 and is located at Riverdale Farms in Avon.  In addition to serving the transition needs of students from Simsbury and Farmington, FVTA currently enrolls students from more than 10 districts.

While at FVTA, students develop their skills in the areas of functional academics, vocational skills and adult living skills.  Some students take college level courses, both at community colleges and at the University of Hartford.

• Mild to moderate intellectual disability or Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Completion of a high school program, including all required credits
• Recommendation from student’s home district
• 18-22 years of age

Students at FVTA participate in a variety of on and off campus experiences.  Students interact with students at the University of Hartford through internships, as co-workers, in Best Buddies and through Unified Theatre.

Additionally, students attend weekly community experiences and  have traveled throughout the state of Connecticut and beyond.

• Communication
• Problem Solving
• Time Management
• Collaboration
• Advocacy Skills
• Attitude
• Flexibility
• Understanding Directions
• Self-motivation
• Accepting Feedback
• Applying Feedback

Soft skills are the foundation for employability. These skills are integrated throughout the program.

Students at FVTA work on a functional curriculum and are instructed in functional reading, writing and mathematics.  Instruction on employment readiness, ADLs, safety, healthy living, relationships and communication is integrated into the academic curriculum.

Some students that attend FVTA take courses at Manchester Community College (MCC). Students that choose and are ready for this step take the Accuplacer placement exam to determine eligibility for classes. Those that attend MCC, use the CT Transit public bus line.
 

At FVTA, we provide all students with a wide array of vocational experiences. Our staff consists of special education teachers, an employment specialist, job coaches, and ADL coaches, who offer ongoing support and feedback to help them become independent, self supporting adults. Students are assessed using a comprehensive rubric that targets communication, professional behavior and skills