Transition Services

At The Learning Center for the Deaf, we begin preparing students for post-graduate success as early as possible. Between ages 16 and 22, our students begin to think more seriously about life after TLC - that could mean college, employment, or support agencies. Our Transition Department is designed to support students in building confidence, while gaining independence and real-world experiences, no matter the passions they pursue after graduation.

Internships

We offer more than 50 internship opportunities—both on and off campus—to gain valuable real life, hands-on experience. Off-campus opportunities include organizations such as Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue and CVS, while on-campus options range from department daily attendance recording and mail room, to dishwashing and support roles in our food services department, as well as assistants and substitute teachers within our athletic department. These internships often create a sense of purpose for our students; they appreciate being given the opportunity to make meaningful connections and change in their community.

Each student’s transition plan is carefully reviewed to ensure their opportunity aligns with their passion, with minimal disruption to their academic requirements and daily coursework. 

Transition Partners:

  • Access Framingham

  • Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue

  • Knots of Fun

  • Metrowest Humane Society

  • Sweet Meadow Farms

  • Mary Ann Morse Healthcare

  • ReStore

  • CVS - multiple locations

  • Putts & More

  • Brookhaven Hospice

  • trUe Salon & Color Cafe

  • Pearl St Cafe & Cupboard

  • Framingham Public Library (Main McAuliffe Library)

  • Kiddie Academy

688 Process

As part of the 688 Process, every student and their family collaborate to ensure the right supports are in place for a smooth transition into adulthood. Every TLC student participates in the 688 Process as part of our Transitional Services. The process is intentionally collaborative, and includes parent sign-off, and education about available resources through agencies; the two most notable are the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), or MassAbility. 

While TLC cannot provide clinical authorization for guardianship, we do offer guidance and resources to help families navigate this important step.

Transition Resources