Adult Career, Community, Education & Enrichment (A.C.E.)
The Adult Career, Community, Education & Enrichment (ACE) Program is a regional program in Charles County designed for students ages 18-21 who are working toward the Maryland Certificate of Program Completion and have met the Alternative Academic Achievement Standards and/or assessments. The ACE program emphasizes hands-on, real-world learning experiences to prepare students for successful transitions to employment, community participation, and independent living. Scaffolded instruction is provided in work readiness, community engagement, and activities of daily living, tailored to individual student needs through the IEP process.
WORK READINESS
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These courses focus on developing essential employment skills, including pre-employment activities like identifying career interests, exploring various career options, and understanding workplace expectations. Students engage in hands-on work experiences in the community, within their school building, or in classroom settings, tailored to their individual needs and IEP goals.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
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These courses are designed to develop skills necessary for increased independence and participation in the community. Instruction focuses on using community resources, mobility and navigation and personal safety with real-world practice through community-based activities.
INDEPENDENT LIVING
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These courses focus on developing essential skills for independent living, including personal care, personal safety, and overall health and wellness. Students will learn practical skills such as shopping, meal preparation, and maintaining a clean home environment.
FUNCTIONAL MATH
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These courses are designed to equip students with practical mathematical skills necessary for everyday life and future employment. Instruction focuses on applying math concepts to real-life situations, such as measuring for cooking, understanding time management and making purchases with an emphasis on using math in community settings. FUNCTIONAL
READING
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The Everyday Reading course is designed to develop essential reading skills that students can apply in their daily lives and community interactions. Instruction focuses on practical texts like signs and menus and building functional vocabulary to enhance communication, with activities tailored to real-world scenarios for increased independence.
RECREATION & LEISURE
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Students explore diverse activities like sports, arts, and community events, encouraging social interaction and physical wellness. Instruction aims to increase independence in pursuing hobbies and reduce reliance on adult support, fostering a fulfilling lifestyle.
FOUNDATIONS OF SELF-ADVOCACY
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These courses help students understand and communicate their strengths and needs while building self-management skills. Instruction includes setting goals, disability awareness, and learning how to ask for help. Students will also learn social/emotional problem-solving strategies to effectively manage their feelings and navigate social situations. Activities promote self-awareness, confidence, and the ability to make informed decisions in social and community settings, fostering greater independence and personal agency.
INDEPENDENT WORK PRACTICUM
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Designed for students who have completed the work readiness training and demonstrated the skills necessary to achieve success on a work site without direct adult support. Through their off-site employment, students apply skills learned in school to maintain job performance, demonstrating their ability to work independently while meeting the expectations of their employers.