On Mon., Dec. 5, a Transition Planning Conference is set to take place at Essex Valley School in West Caldwell 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Essex Valley is a comprehensive, therapeutic, alternative setting for students with disabilities. The focus of the workshop for child study Teams, special education Coordinators, teachers and interested members of the community is transition planning, career exploration and community based experiences.

The presenters will be Laurie Harrington and Joanne Hamza from the John J. Heldrich Center for Workforce Development at Rutgers University. There will be a presentation from the clinical team of Essex Valley School.Training designed to facilitate the use of the New Jersey Career Assistance Navigator (NJCAN) as a tool for post secondary planning and design will also be presented. Essex Valley has an array of vocational and technical options for all students. Programs in culinary arts, cosmetology, carpentry, auto mechanics, landscaping, drama , art therapy, music, clothing design, are offered at the school.

All students become part of the Essex Valley School family, a nurturing environment in which they are taught key educational and life skills. Students work on improving academic proficiency, learn conflict resolution and decision making skills. They learn to express emotions in a socially acceptable manner while increasing self advocacy and independence.

Informative workshop, school tours and a question and answer session will also take place. For further information, contact Perry Cecchini at 973-244-7890.