MERIDIAN, Idaho — The Unique Boutique stands out for its commitment to assisting children with special needs in their transition to post-school life.
- Serving as the Adult Transition Academy of the West Ada School District, the Unique Boutique offers essential training for students with special needs as they prepare to enter the workforce.
- Students engage in activities such as collecting, pricing, and selling clothing, as well as interacting with customers to develop crucial skills.
- For more information, parents can reach out to their school’s case managers.
(Transcript from the broadcast story)
Exploring the world of Unique Boutique and its impact on students with special needs was truly enlightening. Hanna, who now holds a position at the Kidz Again retail store in Meridian, warmly greeted me. She is just one example of the numerous students who have benefited from the West Ada transitional program, which focuses on equipping students with special needs for life beyond high school. The program empowers students to gain practical experience in retail tasks and customer interactions.
Ethan, inspired by his experience at Unique Boutique, currently works at Goodwill, where he excels in organizing shelves.
Angie Hickman, the Adult Transition Special Education Leader, emphasized that parents can connect with their high school’s case manager for additional details. Hickman clarified, “Students diagnosed with a disability are entitled to continue their education until they reach 21 years of age. Subsequently, these students transition to our program to extend their educational journey beyond traditional graduation.”
Mikayla, now employed at Garbanzo’s Pizza in Meridian for two days a week, shared her motivation for joining the workforce. “The encouragement from my teachers led me to pursue employment, highlighting the importance of having a job. I embraced the opportunity,” Mikayla expressed.
Hickman reiterated that parents can seek further guidance from their school’s case managers.
Carlee Simpson, Mikayla’s employer and the proprietor of Garbanzo’s Pizza, has collaborated with the school district for an extended period. Simpson emphasized the significance of the program for these individuals. “My passion for children and the program drives me. Witnessing the growth and blossoming of these students, observing their journey from uncertainty to self-assurance, is truly rewarding,” Simpson shared.
Roberto, regarded as the program’s senior spokesperson, underwent a similar initiative at another high school years ago. Presently, Roberto holds a valued position at Idaho Pizza Company in Eagle. Reflecting on his experience, Roberto expressed gratitude for the program’s support in various aspects like interviews, life skills, and personal hygiene. “The program’s guidance during interviews and life skills training was invaluable. I am immensely thankful for the opportunities it provided me,” Roberto acknowledged.
Furthermore, the program welcomes donations to support its endeavors, and any contribution is greatly appreciated.