Baltimore Transition Connection

The Baltimore Transition Connection is located at Baltimore City Community College in the Inner Harbor, Coppin State College, and Johns Hopkins University. While enrolled in the Baltimore Transition Connection, students receive the support of a certified special educator and an experienced special education assistant. Areas of study include daily living skills, personal-social skills, and occupational guidance and preparation. Students practice everything from managing a checking account and purchasing food, to decision-making skills and resume writing.

The BTC differs from the traditional school setting in that it is community-based; weekly community trips accommodate the lesson plans. If the goal is to plan and prepare a meal, the students visit the grocery store and purchase all items needed. Employment is our ultimate goal: Students acquire applications, volunteer, and work at various locations throughout the community. The majority of BTC students use public transportation to and from school and any work experience they may obtain. In addition, BTC's vast amount of community travel enables students to become increasingly independent in getting around the Baltimore area.

BTC uses CSC's classroom space. Bill Tiefenwerth, Director of the CSC, has become a strong supporter of the program and has been committed in assisting its growth and success. Students at JHU spend only the mornings in the classroom and are out in the community every afternoon, pursuing jobs and developing independent living skills.