ACEE Information

ACEE is a one year transition program for youth with disabilities who face barriers making a successful transition from high school to post-secondary education or community employment.

Program Information

• ACEE participants will attend workshops during the week and gain job-related experience.  The workshop topics will include job-related literacy and numeracy, independent living skills, career exploration and employment orientation; guests will be invited to speak on various topics and participants will learn about community resources by going on outings.
• At the beginning of ACEE, all participants will attend a 12 week employment assessment at Affirmative Industries’ two businesses, the Neighbourhood Dollar Plus Store and Petstuff on the Go.  Weekend and evening work will be required.  At the end of the 12 weeks, a report will offer recommendations regarding employment readiness and supports needed to move to community employment.
• Job Development and job coaching support will be provided as participants move into community employment.
• Continuation in the program is based on participants demonstrating progress towards their employment or educational goal.
• Parent(s) or caregivers will also participate by attending transition orientation sessions.
• Participants will complete ACEE with a skills summary and resource portfolio.

Acceptance Criteria

• Identified as a student with very challenging academic and social needs throughout high school.
• Followed an Individualized Program Plan with a Transition Plan.
• Must have graduated with a high school diploma and be between the ages of 18 to 21, or be referred by Department of Community Services or other community agencies.
• Have the potential to work independently after a period of instruction.
• Demonstrated an ability to work with minimal supervision in a variety of settings.
• Must have the goal of ongoing education or community employment.
• Commitment from parent(s) or caregivers to participate in the transition process.
• Responsible to arrange own transportation to and from ACEE program and work placements.
• Must be willing to work a flexible schedule including weekends.

For further information contact
Cathy Waite at 462-9787 email: Cathy.waite.ilns@nscc.ca

OR

Jillian Mosher at 462-0787 email: Jillian.mosher.ilns@nscc.ca

ACEE is located at the Nova Scotia Community College, Akerley Campus, Dartmouth.

ACEE is a program of Independent Living Nova Scotia and is delivered in partnership with Affirmative Industries and the Halifax Regional School Board.  ACEE is funded by the Province of Nova Scotia, Departments of Community Services and Education.