STAARS

STAARS Program:   Students of Transition Age Acquiring Relevant Skills

Hastings Public Schools’ STAARS Program serves young adults, ages 18-21, with a range of abilities and disabilities who need assistance in making the transition from school to life in the community. Students are referred to STAARS by their high school IEP team.

STAARS provides opportunities for students to grow in areas such as job experiences/training, self-advocacy, written and verbal communication, community service, and independent living.  The educational focus is to prepare the students for post-secondary life, as specified in each individualized education plan. 

The program focuses on three transition areas:

  • Post-secondary education and training
  • Employment
  • Independent living

Referral by the IEP team is determined based on the following:

  • Student continues to qualify for special education services and has needs beyond high school credit attainment in the areas of Transition (per the IEP)
  • Student has met high school credit graduation requirements and is eligible for a diploma
  • Student has not received a diploma
  • Student is 18 or over upon start date at STAARS

STAARS staff links students with community resources within the transition areas. Resources include rehabilitation services, job/career counseling, social services, community cultural and recreational facilities.

Community Resources

 

Contact Info for STAARS:
Megan Miller, Director of Special Services