In recognition of the School District of Milton’s continuing mission to prepare students for achievement and lifetime readiness by providing opportunities for all, the District has been awarded $89,000 from the Wisconsin Department of Instruction through the Transition Readiness Grant (TRG) program which will support career-readiness education for special education students.

The DPI Transition Readiness Grant program is designed to support Wisconsin’s students with disabilities to successfully transition to competitive work and post-secondary education environments after high school.

Milton High School Special Education Teacher, Declan Boran-Ragotzy says the impact of these funds will have an immediate positive impact on his current students at Milton High School and the community as a whole. Through TRG funding, current MHS special education students are able to enroll in area programs that support employment and life-skills training for those with special needs.

Beyond program enrollment, TRG funds have also allowed the district to purchase a wheelchair accessible vehicle to better accommodate transport of students with mobility limitations. Reliable District provided transportation allows participating students to explore what programming opportunities are available, without forcing them to commit to any one organization or employer.

“It is essential that we help our students make these connections within our community,” Mr. Boran-Ragotzy emphasized. “It not only forges bonds between these students and our business community, but through the support of local businesses we can provide these students with the best possible tools, resources, and skills that they need to succeed once they graduate from the public school system.”

Boran-Ragotzy pointed out that through TRG funding, additional training will be available for all district staff members interested in learning more about transition readiness for special education students. “We are fortunate to have a great foundation in place through our local business’ support. Thanks to the TRG grant, we can further build upon our existing community partnerships and create new partnerships with surrounding businesses,” he added.