The Transition Learning Center (TLC) was started in February of 2001 as part of the Safe Schools Healthy Students grant initiative. Housed in the Packers Avenue Community Learning Center, TLC has become a statewide model for successful high school "At Risk" programs.

The program is designed to provide students with academic assessment, vocational assessment and the ability to earn credit while exploring the most appropriate long-term educational and/or vocational setting. Curriculum is provided through a variety of computer-based programs such as PLATO.

The profile of students attending the program include gang-involved students, students who are unable to function in any other school program, students who are homeless, students with significant mental health needs, and students affected by trauma.

In the five years of operation, the program has enrolled 322 students. These students have all earned some high school credits in the program.

More than the credits earned is the impact the program has had on the lives of these students. Some have graduated only because of this program, some have gotten connected to other alternatives, some have gotten connected to badly needed community resources, and all have found a safe base they could work from.

"I liked all the work on the computer; it helped me catch up on my credits."

"I like it because I can work at my own pace and get more done."

(Former TLC students)

Tracey Williams is the teacher who has been with the program since it started. Mindy Trudell is the social worker currently working with the program. Together they are a very successful team.