BRIDGE TO INDEPENDENCE PROGRAM
The Bridge to Independence Program provides a well scaffolded and immersive environment for students to practice increasing levels of self-initiative, responsibility, and independence in their lives. All of this while maintaining receptivity to mentorship, skill-building, and interdependence with others as a young adult. The Bridge Program is a continuation and enhancement of the Mountain Springs Preparatory experience and is not a stand alone program. The beautifully built and decorated independence houses will provide 8 additional beds for male students in our male independence house and 8 additional beds for female students in our female independence house. Students who live in the the Bridge to Independence Houses:
- Have demonstrated leadership and are self-governing their actions while enrolled at Mountain Springs Prep
- Are at least 17 years old
- Currently a senior in high school
- Have a job or volunteering in the community
TRANSITION TO ADULT LIVING:
- Life skills: Weekly budget planning, meal planning, paying bills
- Healthy living goals: Meal choices, exercise, self-care
- Meeting personal goals: Sustaining therapeutic growth in less structure
- Financial Management: Checking and Savings Accounts
- Becoming autonomous, self-sufficient and self-governing
FAMILY INVOLVEMENT:
- Weekly collaborative discussions with MSPA Advisor
- Continuing assistance with goal planning
- Family therapy
STRUCTURED AND SUPPORTIVE LIVING:
- Weekly community therapy sessions
- Weekly mentor meetings
- Privilege Management
- Staff oversight/awake night supervision
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY:
- Gym Membership
- Skiing at Brian Head
- Local Aquatic Center
- Horseback Riding
- SUU Athletic Department
COMMUNITY IMMERSION:
- Weekly volunteer and work experiences
- Ability to make decision regarding peer relationships
- Independent decision-making
- Practice self-governing independence
SUPPORTIVE COLLEGE EXPERIENCE:
- Southern Utah University (SUU)
- Southwest Tech
- SAT/ACT Testing
- College application assistance