College & Transition
College & Transition Program
The Bayhill School College & Transition Program helps students prepare thoughtfully for life after high school. Because the path forward looks different for every student, planning is individualized around each student's strengths, interests, goals, and support needs.
Students explore a range of postsecondary possibilities, including two- and four-year colleges, vocational and technical training, continuing education, independent living programs, and employment. Our goal is to help each student understand their options, make informed decisions, and develop the skills and confidence to take their next step.
By the Numbers...
73% of Bayhill graduates continue to college
40 postsecondary institutions students apply to annually
73% register with college disability services before enrollment
~17 colleges and programs represented at the annual Transition Fair
Learning About College and Transition
Preparing for life after Bayhill happens throughout a student's high school experience. In the classroom and through the College & Transition Program, students learn to:
- Understand Bayhill's graduation requirements
- Learn about A – G requirements for admission to the University of California and California State University systems
- Read and understand their academic transcripts
- Take the PreACT
- Use the Strong Interest Inventory to explore possible career interest
- Reflect on their own college and career readiness
- Develop personal statements and other application materials
- Understand the basics of disability rights and accommodations in higher education
Each year, Bayhill hosts a College & Transition Fair on campus, bringing representatives from colleges, art schools, independent living programs, gap year programs, and employment and transition organizations directly to our students and families. The fair gives students an opportunity to ask questions, learn about different pathways, and begin imagining what life after Bayhill might look like.
Including Families in Postsecondary Decisions
During junior and senior year, students and their families meet individually with Bayhill's College Advisor and Transition Coordinator to develop a plan for life after high school. Ongoing meetings provide students and families with individualized guidance as they research options, make decisions, complete applications, and prepare for the transition from Bayhill.
Life Skills Course
Bayhill's Life Skills course helps students develop practical skills for greater independence in adulthood. Students connect what they learn in school to real-world situations while building greater awareness of themselves, their goals, and the responsibilities that come with increased independence.
Through practical activities, discussion, and reflection, students work toward their Individual Transition Plan (ITP) and develop skills they can carry into college, work, relationships, and everyday life.
- Self-Advocacy- understanding and communicating what you need
- Self-Awareness- recognizing your strengths, challenges, interests, and goals
- Self-Development- building skills and habits for continued growth
- Self-Motivation-setting goals and taking increasing ownership of your choices
- Self-Sufficiency- developing practical skills for greater independence