Laura Nestor and Nate Leach

With a vision of increasing independence for special-needs students, Nestor and Leach's innovative project is the "Transition Kitchen." It will provide special education students at York High School with real-life opportunities to learn and grow as they transition from the classroom into independent or assisted-living environments. It is designed to provide teachers with the tools they need to develop and deliver educational programming regarding the safe use and operation of all equipment and materials. Overall, the "Transition Kitchen" is for students with mild to moderate disabilities to learn the art of safely cooking and cleaning in a structured environment. While directly impacting 80 students annually, students in surrounding special education programs will also be able to benefit from the knowledge and resources gathered from this project. Parents will see the benefits of having children who possess a much higher level of independence, helping students to qualify for more independent-living situations. The community will receive individuals with more advanced skills, prepared to take on employment and contribute to their community.