Extended Transition Students Honored for Their Volunteer Efforts

Eight students are part of Disston Academy’s Extended Transition Horticulture Program. The students volunteer 25 hours per week to Animal Services, Florida Botanical Gardens and Heritage Village, and assist with a variety of tasks, including landscaping, lawn service, plant operations and mechanical work.

Extended Transition provides 18- to 22-year-old students with exceptionalities who have completed their high school education the opportunity to continue on with Pinellas County Schools. The program helps students to develop life skills, social skills, community training, bus training and employment skills to aid them in their transition from school to adult life.

Disston Academy’s Extended Transition Horticulture Program has received the Silver and Bronze Public Service Award from Pinellas County in the past, but this is the first time they’ve had a tree planted in their honor.