Celebrating New Beginnings: Manistee ISD’s Transition Program Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
The Manistee Intermediate School District is thrilled to announce an exciting milestone for our community — the grand opening of our newly renovated Transition Program classroom! In collaboration with the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, we invite families, community members, local businesses, and partners to join us for a special Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
📍 Location: 1400 Parkdale Ave Manistee, MI
📅 Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
🕒 Time: 4:45-5:30 PM
A Program with Purpose
The Manistee ISD Transition Program is designed to serve students ages 18–26 with moderate cognitive impairments, helping them prepare for life after high school. Our mission is to empower young adults to gain the confidence, independence, and skills they need to thrive in adulthood.
Through hands-on learning and community-based experiences, students develop essential skills in key areas such as:
Activities of Daily Living – cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and household responsibilities
Independent Living Skills – navigating transportation, shopping, and personal safety
Employment & Job Readiness – workplace training, soft skills, and real-world experiences
Self-Care & Personal Development – building confidence, wellness, and decision-making skills
“Our Transition Program is about so much more than academics,” said Denver Phillips, Transition Coordinator. “It’s about preparing students for real-life opportunities and connecting them to the skills, community resources, and confidence they need to succeed.”
A Space Designed for Growth
This year marks a new chapter for our program, thanks to the transformation of our classroom space. Over the summer, the Transition Classroom underwent significant renovations to create an environment that better supports students’ diverse learning needs.
Every detail of the renovation has been thoughtfully planned to encourage independence and hands-on learning. From functional kitchen areas where students can practice cooking, to dedicated workspaces that simulate real-world job environments, the new space is designed to bridge the gap between school and adulthood.
“This classroom was designed with purpose,” explained Angela, MOCI Transition Teacher. “Each area focuses on specific life and transition skills, giving students the chance to practice what they’ll need for everyday living and employment.”
An Invitation to Celebrate
The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony is more than just the opening of a classroom — it’s a celebration of collaboration, community, and opportunity. By collaborating with the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, we’re proud to showcase the strong connections between local businesses, community organizations, educators, and families, working together to support students on their path to independence.
Guests will have the opportunity to:
✨ Tour the newly renovated classroom and learning spaces
✨ Meet the staff and learn more about the MOCI Transition Program
✨ Connect with community members, local leaders, and business partners
✨ Celebrate the amazing students who are at the heart of this program!
We hope you’ll join us as we celebrate this exciting step forward for the Manistee ISD Transition Program and the students we serve. Your support makes a lasting difference in helping our young adults succeed.