The student body at VIP typically displays a wide range of instructional needs in the area of independent living skills. The acquisition of these skills is a complex and long-term process, and success often linked to the development of improved self image and the cumulative effect of successful experiences in social, academic, and vocational areas. Our low student-to-staff ratio enables us to provide an individualized, multi-faceted approach to assist students in the development of independent living skills using hands-on learning experiences. Assessment of specific skills is ongoing. Teachers and counselors identify student needs as they emerge in the course of daily activities. Instruction in independent living skills is introduced through a variety of courses in our classroom-based curriculum, such as Freshmen Seminar, Math & Budget, Independent Banking, Health, Foods, and Apartment Living. Driver’s education and training is available where applicable.

As students work and interact within the program, it often becomes apparent that some students require a more intensive, individualized approach to help them acquire skills necessary to function independently. Students identified as needing special attention in these areas are assigned to work with an independent living counselor whose role is to work closely with the student to devise specialized strategies to address his or her unique needs and to coordinate efforts with staff members working in the academic, social, and vocational areas of the program.