Preparing Students for Independent Lives
Transitions by Terra Verde serves students in grades 6–12 with intellectual or developmental disabilities through small-group, individualized instruction on our beautiful Norman campus. Designed as an alternative pathway, the program focuses on academic growth, social development, vocational training, and life skills.
Students work toward an alternative diploma while building confidence, independence, and real-world readiness. With high staff support, hands-on learning, and opportunities for inclusion within the broader Terra Verde community, Transitions empowers students to grow with purpose—and move forward with confidence.
Hi, I’m Rose Fletcher, a Norman, Oklahoma native, University of Oklahoma graduate, and lifelong advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities, inspired by my sibling with special needs. For over a decade, I’ve been dedicated to special education, working alongside students, families, and our community to create meaningful learning experiences. Being a part of Transitions has been a truly rewarding experience. Transitions is a special place where I get to empower teens and young adults to master life skills, build confidence and practice self-determination that will carry them forward. I’m grateful to be on this journey with my students, helping them achieve their goals.
Transitions serves students ages 12 to 21 with intellectual disabilities. We focus on what really matters, things like making choices, speaking up, trying new things, building friendships, and learning how to take care of yourself and your responsibilities. Whether it’s cooking a balanced meal, managing money, doing laundry, or preparing for a job, our students are gaining tools for life at their own pace and in a way that works for them.
We keep things small and personal on purpose. Students learn in small groups with experienced, caring teachers who really get to know them. We cover functional academics, social skills, communication, and independence, but we also make space for fun, curiosity, and connection. Our campus, just outside of Norman, is peaceful and surrounded by nature. It gives our students room to breathe, reset, and grow without the noise and pressure of a traditional school setting, but close enough to practice real-world experiences. We also offer many Special Olympics sports, and we participate all year round! It’s a fantastic way for our students to stay active, improve their self-esteem, and be part of a supportive community.
Maybe most important of all: no one does this alone. The relationships built here between students, families, and staff are real. We cheer each other on, show up for the hard stuff, and celebrate the small wins. We believe in every student’s future, and we work toward it together. Transitions offers an alternative diploma and a hands-on path to adulthood. But more than that, it’s a place where students can feel safe, understood, and proud of who they are.
