VITAL services are designed to meet the individual needs of high school special education students transitioning to post-secondary education. The goal is to help students continue on their path toward independence.
At Kirkwood, VITAL services are provided by Grant Wood Area Education Agency staff.
A student’s individual support services are based on goals and accommodations developed by the student’s IEP team. These services are aligned to the student’s individual needs in his or her goal areas.
IEP services may include specially designed instruction, supplemental services, and accommodations based on their needs. Goal areas might include academic, social/behavioral, and work-based goals.
Students receiving support through the VITAL network must meet the following requirements:
Funding for tuition and textbooks is provided through the student's local area school district, therefore the student is not eligible for Federal Financial Aid.
A student’s IEP team helps monitor the transition needs of each student, and the transition planning begins during a student’s early high school years. Through the transition assessments in the areas of learning, living, and working, teams identify goals for each student.
As a senior, if it is confirmed that a student has unmet needs, the IEP team will consider how to address those needs. Many options should be considered as part of the transition process that will align services to meet the student’s needs.
For onsite assistance, please contact Brenda Cooley at 319-398-5448, or email brenda.cooley@kirkwood.edu. You can also contact the Program Administrator at Grant Wood AEA, Kristin Hicks at 319-304-0274 or email khicks@gwaea.org.
VITAL
Cedar Hall 2043
319-398-5448
vital@kirkwood.edu