Students in LPS Transition Services organized a grand opening for their new store, Rebel Hawk, on January 12, 2022. The grand opening was a huge success with about 50 attendees. Shoppers enjoyed free coffee, hot chocolate, tea, apple cider, and snacks as part of the grand opening experience.

Transition Services in LPS
Transition Services is a community-based program serving a wide range of students with disabilities who are 18–21 years of age. Services and supports for students are based on their individual needs and their long-term goals and outcomes. Staff strive to encourage active participation in the students’ community including the areas of vocational training, functional life skills, access to appropriate public transportation, recreation and leisure activities, healthy relationships and other areas that support an appropriate and meaningful level of independence for each young adult in the program.

Rebel Hawk Store
Items for sale in the Rebel Hawk store are created by Transition Services students during the store’s open hours (Wednesdays from 8:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.) so shoppers can observe the process. Additionally, students operate a cafe where they prepare coffee and tea for shoppers.

The store is not yet open to the public, but there is the possibility of expansion in the next school year which could potentially include an online shopping option.

All proceeds from the Rebel Hawk store go back to the store to purchase supplies for the creation of more items to sell. 

Heather Railey, employment specialist for Transition Services, said, "I am so excited to see how much our Transition students are learning and growing through this experience. At Transition, we are focused on making each student successful in their adult lives. Students working in the school store are learning skills needed for future employment and independence. I am so incredibly proud of the hard work and creativity they all bring to class."