By: Lisa Dolby, NJEA Consortium Design Team Ambassador
At the heart of the 18–21 Transitions Program, Delsea Regional High School Teacher Lisa Dolby, along with co-teacher Doug Richardson, is working diligently to build a strong foundation for young adults as they prepare for life beyond school. Their goal is to help students gain independence, confidence and practical skills that extend into employment, social situations and community living. A key part of this initiative includes community-based outings designed to reinforce real-world learning, as well as school-based activities that foster inclusion with the general student population. Students engage in academics, work placements and extracurricular activities that prepare them for life and encourage meaningful interaction with peers. Many of these students transition from a more academic, NJSLS-based high school curriculum with the support of colleagues Ronn Flaim and Rob Briles into the 18–21 program, where the focus shifts to life and vocational readiness.
One part of Lisa’s inclusive effort is the Friends of SAVE club, an organization originally founded in 2014 by Abbie Jones. Its mission is to promote disability awareness, leadership and positive relationship-building between students with and without disabilities. As roles have shifted, Lisa and Rob have taken the reins of Friends of SAVE, continuing Abbie’s important work. Together, they’ve nurtured a welcoming environment where students form genuine connections and gain the tools to become advocates and allies for one another.
Making an impact
The impact of Friends of SAVE continues to grow. This was especially evident when students Desiree Cole and Gianna Spencer took the initiative to create and present an Autism Awareness program to their peers during Autism Awareness Month in April. With guidance and support from Lisa and her colleagues, the students developed an engaging and informative presentation that highlighted the experiences of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and offered insights into how to be more supportive and inclusive. Desiree and Gianna’s presentation was engaging and captivated the audience; all eyes were on them, and they earned a loud applause. In conjunction with their presentation, 18–21 Transitions students practiced critical life skills by selling awareness ribbons throughout the day—practicing valuable skills such as speaking clearly, handling money and engaging in meaningful conversations. The event was a true reflection of the program’s mission and the lasting impact of teamwork, awareness and inclusion.
As Delsea’s 18–21 program continues to grow, Lisa Dolby and Doug Richardson remain dedicated to creating exceptional experiences that empower students of all backgrounds. Their mission is rooted in providing meaningful opportunities that equip students to succeed in whatever path they choose—whether it’s employment, independent living or volunteer work. Lisa shares, “This club and our program reinforce my philosophy that everyone is capable in one way or another. Our students show me this every day through their kindness, genuine engagement and support. I see them bump fists in the hallway, ask each other about their weekends and encourage one another by attending each other’s activities and sporting events.”
The team’s efforts go beyond academics—they’re helping students recognize their strengths, build self-worth and leave the program with the confidence that their disabilities do not define them. Above all, the hope is that each student walks away knowing they are valuable, capable and ready to contribute meaningfully to their community and future.