Transition to Independent Living (TIL) Program

The Transition to Independent Living Program (TIL) is a post-secondary educational experience for adults having developmental/intellectual disabilities. The program provides instruction, training, and support on a community college campus. The program is comprehensive, with curriculum and training that promotes acquisition of the functional, social, and career skills necessary for students to live a productive and normalized lifestyle. The program occupies 32 dorms at the (CIL) Center for Independent Living, (one of three residence halls on the Taft Community College campus) and several one-to-four-bedroom homes in the community. TIL began in August 1995, with funding from Kern Regional Center. The college serves as the sponsoring agency. TC has offered programs and special classes serving individuals with developmental/intellectual disabilities since 1976. Staff for the TIL program include administrative, certificated and classified staff. The program maintains a staff ratio of 3:1. Instructional hours may vary – a student’s TC/TIL classes may begin at 8 – 11 a.m. TC/TIL classes may end at 5 – 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Weekend Support Staff are present from 7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. The program is staffed seven days a week. Upon admission to the TIL Program, the student moves into a residence hall and begins instruction. The students participate in the program an average of 22 months. The program runs from August 1 through June 30.