Public Policy Associates (PPA) is privileged to collaborate with MITTIN (Michigan Transition to Independence), a forward-thinking initiative dedicated to helping students with special needs develop essential life skills and foster independence as they transition into adulthood.
MITTIN offers a comprehensive collection of educational modules designed to equip students with moderate to severe disabilities with the practical skills they will need when they age out of public education at 26. These resources are intended for use by teachers, parents, and caregivers to safely guide learners in practicing real-world skills essential for independent living.
MITTIN was launched during the COVID pandemic when there was a pressing need for online resources for students with a wide range of disabilities. The MITTIN partners are PPA, the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE), the Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC), and Great Lakes Reality Labs (GLRL).
“During the pandemic, we could no longer take students with transition goals to community-based sites,” explained Dr. Kristine Gullen, MITTIN’s Project Manager for MAASE. “In response, we created MITTIN’s innovative resources to help students practice transition-related skills safely within school or home environments. As the project grew, we recognized the need for tailored professional development to support teachers in utilizing the modules effectively. This led to the creation of monthly virtual Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), which have been instrumental in supporting teachers across the state. These PLCs have fostered collaboration among educators, transforming their instructional practices and enhancing their students’ independence.”
To date, MITTIN has developed 16 modules covering a wide range of life skills. Learners can gain experience in tasks such as cleaning a bedroom, navigating a parking lot, or using a stove. Some students have even used these foundational skills to take on more complex tasks, like preparing a grilled cheese sandwich and shopping for groceries.
As awareness of MITTIN has grown, so too has its reach. Conferences, expos, and word of mouth have increased interest from parents and providers eager to explore how MITTIN can support their learners and to share best practices with others. “We see MITTIN as a valuable tool for school and community practitioners, enabling them to customize instruction in transition-related skills for their students,” said Dr. Lois Vaughan-Hussain, an educational consultant and MITTIN PLC facilitator.
Dr. Gullen noted that PPA’s researchers have played a critical role in supporting MITTIN’s development, from enhancing internal assessment capabilities, providing literature reviews, and creating logic models, to developing MITTIN’s first strategic plan. PPA also helped connect MITTIN with doctoral students from Michigan State University, who are currently studying the program’s classroom effectiveness.
Dr. Daniel Quinn, PPA’s Chief Strategy Officer, continues to provide strategic guidance as a valued member of the MITTIN leadership team.
You can find more information about MITTIN at maase.org/mittin.