LIGHT FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions about LIGHT
When is a student considered eligible for the LIGHT program?
Students with identified special education services are eligible for the LIGHT program upon completion of their high school graduation requirements. Students, families, and the Huntley High School Special Education Department work closely with LIGHT Program staff to determine if transition services are required to support the student’s skill development to meet post-secondary outcomes.
Will transportation be provided?
Transportation services are available based on student needs and schedules. The LIGHT Program will focus on travel training students to use natural transportation options to and from school, home, and work, including but not limited to: public transportation (bus, train, etc.), cab/taxi services, and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft, etc). During training sessions, students will learn to schedule a ride, handle situations when transportation is late or does not show up, carry currency for a ride, and interact with transit personnel. Students attending LIGHT Program or MCC classes within program hours may have D158 transportation to and from the program.
Students can receive transportation to/from school Monday through Friday within school hours. Transportation services are not provided on school holidays or for emergency school closings. Transportation requests require a 48-hour notice. Transportation may be available for work-based learning experiences, such as employment or internships, but is not guaranteed.
What time is student drop-off and is parking available?
Drop-Off
Student drop-off should occur after 7:50 a.m.
Deicke Park
Parents can drop off their student in front of the building. Our staff will be outside to assist any students as needed. Students who do not require assistance can walk up to the front door and enter the small lobby. The second door will be locked to enter the rest of the building for security purposes. Students can ring the doorbell if needed to be let in.
Vine Street Vocational Training Center
Parents can drop off students at the side entrance of the building adjacent to the parking lot. Staff will be supporting the entrance prior to 8:00 a.m. For all other times, students will utilize the doorbell to gain entrance being the door will remain locked for security purposes.
Student Parking Procedures
Some of our students drive themselves to programming. Both the Independent Living Center - Deicke Park and the Vine Street Vocational Center will have parking spots just outside of the buildings. We will not charge for parking. However, students should let their case manager know on the first day of school that they will be driving themselves to and from school. Students will get a parking pass to display in their windshield for security purposes. Note: Students driving to MCC do not require any parking pass nor are there any parking fees.
What do meals look like for LIGHT students?
At the Vine Street Vocational Center, students will have an option to purchase school lunch during first period. Students will make their own lunch when visiting Deicke Park.
Will transition courses be listed on students’ transcript?
No. Transition courses will not be listed on students’ final high school transcript. The graduation date will be listed as when a student has completed their high school graduation requirements.
Can students enroll at MCC while participating in the LIGHT program?
Yes. At McHenry County College, transition students are considered High School PLUS students. Families are responsible for the payment of all MCC courses; due to state requirements, transition students are not eligible for financial aid. Please note, all MCC courses will appear on a students’ college transcript and be factored in a student’s GPA. Huntley 158 also partners closely with MCC to provide students in the LIGHT program with unique experiential learning opportunities, such as hydroponic planting, college course preparation, and more.
Will related services continue?
Yes. Related services will continue to be provided based on a student’s IEP (Individualized Education Plan).
How can a student exit the LIGHT Program?
Students can be eligible for services for the remainder of the regular school year during the year in which the student turns age 22. However, a student may choose to receive their diploma at any time before they age out. Students will exit the program once they possess the skills to meet their post-secondary outcomes. Exiting the program will be monitored by the IEP team using eligibility criteria and progress monitoring assessments. Upon exiting the transition program, students receive a Huntley High School diploma with their original graduation date (or a diploma from their home school if the student is tuitioned-in).