The Extended Learning Community (ELC) Program has been developed to help graduates of our Two Year Certificate Program build an even stronger bridge to an independent community life. This program focuses on creating vocational opportunities and associated individualized services to enable participants to become more independent. The ELC Program supports music and non-music vocations and further enhances life and social skills.

Vocational Experience services for the ELC participant may include:

• Vocation Management Services

Academy staff work with a variety of businesses and organizations in the region to identify opportunities and create a vocational experience for the participant’s skill level. Staff coordinate job responsibilities, and set routines and schedules to maximize the learning experience.

• Vocation Preparation Services

Individuals learn to develop skills required for the workplace, such as understanding their role in the work environment, and learning good work ethics and appropriate social and physical boundaries at work.

• Vocation Support Services

Academy staff provide the necessary support for the student’s job experience such as planning how to get to and from work and interfacing with the job supervisor to enhance participants’ successful performance at work.

The ELC services offerings are dependent on the participant’s skill level and are highly individualized.

Students learn to understand their likes and dislikes, perceptions, interests, skills, values, dispositions, attitudes, and goals. The ELC Program strives to bridge a student’s interest with a meaningful vocation.

Examples of Non-Music Vocation Experiences:

• Assist in elementary schools
• Work as an office assistant
• Work in elder care
• Work in Libraries
• Work in Museums

Examples of Music Vocation Experiences

• Perform as a member of a band, trios and duets at conferences, school assemblies and parties
• Assist in music activities for children and the elderly, as music therapy aids
• Street performances in Amherst and Northampton

The ELC Program also supports the Performance Troupe, a group of graduates who regularly perform for local area schools, weddings, parties, agencies, and businesses. The Troupe is available for hire and offers many different options for entertainment. The Academy staff supports Troupe members in securing and preparing for engagements, and getting to them. (Book our Performers)