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LIGHT FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about LIGHT

When is a student considered eligible for the LIGHT program?

Students ages 18-22 years old are considered eligible for the district’s 18-22 transition program when they have delayed acceptance of their high school diploma in order to receive additional support and instruction before entering independent or interdependence adulthood. A member of the IEP (Individualized Education Plan) will recommend a student based on data, file review, transition goals and the student’s transition plan.

Will transportation be provided?

Yes. Transportation services will be provided to and from school Monday through Friday. The LIGHT Program also works closely with the district’s transportation department to provide transportation services as student travel to internship and job experiences. Transportation will not be provided on holidays.

What time is student drop-off and is parking available? 

Drop-Off Procedures

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. 

Marlowe Middle School

As mentioned in the orientation video, Marlowe Middle School will be used as our Voc Training Center until the Vine Street location is ready. Once we are utilizing that location, Marlowe will no longer be a site for student programming/instruction. As you enter Marlowe’s campus, follow the signs for the buses. You will go to the left through the roundabout. Yes, there is a sign that says “Authorized Vehicles Only” but our program has special permission to drive around the building through the bus loop to drop off at Door 14. We will have staff outside each morning by 7:50 a.m. to assist students. If any campus staff flag you down as you enter this area, please just let them know you are part of the LIGHT program.

Employment Training Center - Vine Street

Once we are utilizing this location, 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 Deicke Park and the Employment Training Center - Vine Street will have parking spots just outside of the buildings. We will not charge for parking. However, please let your case manager know on your first day of school that you drove yourself and we’ll give you a parking pass to display in your windshield for security purposes. Students driving to MCC do not require any parking pass nor are there any parking fees. 

What do meals look like for LIGHT students? 

While the Employment Training Center is at Marlowe Middle School at the beginning of the school year, students will have access to the lunch menu at Marlowe. Once the transition to the Vine Street location has occurred, 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. 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 in special education are eligible for transition services until the end of the school year during which they turn 22. Students will exit the LIGHT Program once they have met their transition goals and may accept their Huntley High School diploma at any time before they “age out” of the program.