Table of Contents
- Inside Reach Cyber Charter School's Special Education Program
- Real-World Learning Through the Work Experience Program
- Building Independence with Community-Based Transition Skills (CBTS)
- Supporting 1,000+ Transition-Age Students and Their Families
- Hands-On Learning at the Annual Transition Event
- Developing Professional Skills Through Virtual and In-Person Lessons
- Student Success Story: Aidan's Journey
- Preparing Students for Life Beyond the Classroom
- Start Your Journey with Reach Cyber
Inside Reach Cyber Charter School's Special Education Program
At Reach Cyber Charter School, special education is more than individualized instruction-it's a comprehensive, real-world approach designed to help students build confidence, independence, and career-ready skills. Through innovative programs like Work Experience, Community-Based Transition Skills (CBTS), and hands-on transition events, students receive support every step of the way from classroom learning to life after graduation.
Real-World Learning Through the Work Experience Program
One of the most impactful components of Reach Cyber's special education program is the Work Experience Program, which allows any student with an IEP to earn academic credit while working a part-time job.
- Students can participate in the fall or the spring
- Students earn credit toward graduation depending on participation length
- Many students are successfully graduating because of this opportunity
Key Benefits:
- Real-world job experience while still in school
- Access to job coaching and professional resources
- Reduced traditional coursework by earning credit through employment
- Employer feedback to help students grow professionally
Students complete weekly reflections, receive feedback from teachers, and gain valuable insight into workplace expectations, all while building resumes and career pathways.
Building Independence with Community-Based Transition Skills (CBTS)
Reach Cyber's Community-Based Transition Skills (CBTS) program brings learning beyond the screen and into the real world for students participating in alternate curriculum with a focus on functional academics.
Through partnerships with community agencies, students:
- Practice everyday life skills like 21st Century, daily living and social skills, community navigation
- Gain hands-on job training (vocational soft skills and workplace routines)
- Participate in structured, in-person learning experiences
Currently, six CBTS programs are active across Pennsylvania, each tailored to meet local students' needs. These experiences help reinforce independence, responsibility, and confidence in real-life settings.
Supporting 1,000+ Transition-Age Students and Their Families
Reach Cyber serves over 1,000 transition-age students, ensuring each learner has access to resources that prepare them for life after high school.
- Families are connected with community agencies and post-graduation services
- Transition coordinators support students with varying needs, including low-incidence disabilities
- Personalized guidance ensures students are not navigating the future alone
This holistic support system ensures that every student- regardless of ability-has a plan for success beyond graduation.
Hands-On Learning at the Annual Transition Event
Each year, students participate in a powerful transition event at the Franklin Institute.
During this experience, students:
- Assemble kits for individuals experiencing homelessness
- Distribute supplies to charitable organizations
- Practice teamwork, communication, and job-readiness skills
This annual event blends service learning with career development helping students understand the value of community engagement while strengthening workplace behaviors.
Developing Professional Skills Through Virtual and In-Person Lessons
Reach Cyber combines virtual instruction with hands-on experiences to reinforce essential workplace skills.
Featured Lessons Include:
- Professionalism: Maintaining Successful Employment
- Goal Setting and SMART Goals
- Resume building and career exploration
- Workplace expectations and consequences
Students learn critical soft skills such as:
- Being on time and dependable
- Maintaining a positive attitude
- Respecting personal space and workplace boundaries
- Communicating effectively with coworkers and supervisors
Student Success Story: Aidan's Journey
Aidan, a Reach Cyber student, exemplifies the impact of these programs through his participation in Community Development Days.
During his experiences, Aidan:
- Volunteered at a local food bank, stocking shelves and inspecting produce
- Practiced cleaning and organizational skills with attention to detail
- Explored local businesses, including restaurants and retail locations
- Interacted with employees to learn about job roles and responsibilities
He even practiced real job tasks like rolling silverware at a restaurant and received positive feedback from staff. Through guided support, Aidan is working toward his goal of employment, including building a professional resume and identifying career interests.
Preparing Students for Life Beyond the Classroom
At Reach Cyber Charter School, special education students are empowered with the tools they need to succeed in the real world.
From earning credits through employment to building independence in the community, every program is designed with one goal in mind: helping students transition confidently into adulthood.
Start Your Journey with Reach Cyber
If you're looking for a supportive, forward-thinking special education program that prioritizes real-world success, Reach Cyber Charter School is here to help.
Explore enrollment today and discover how your student can thrive- academically, socially, and professionally.
