CATS is a unique partnership between the Los Angeles Unified School District and the Los Angeles Community College District.

Located at selected Los Angeles Community Colleges, the Center provides instructional support, independent travel training, career guidance, work-based learning experiences, and job opportunities to prepare students with special needs for the adult world.

LAUSD transition teachers in partnership with community college staff collaborate with families, school personnel, employers, and outside agencies to empower students to make decisions, set goals and carry out their transition plans from school to post-school opportunities.

Participating students also enroll in classes at the community college and are assisted by mentors as they learn a variety of important employment skills including social, study, living and vocational skills.

Printable CATS Brochure

Eligibility Criteria

• Current Individualized Education Program (IEP)
• 19 – 22 years of age
• Commitment of two (2) years to participate
  • Four years high school attendance including:
  • Non – Diploma Track
  • Teacher recommendation
  • Regular Attendance
  • Work experience/Vocational classes
  • Mobility training
• Student exhibits:
• Functional living skills
• Ability to stay on task for 15 – 30 minutes
• Flexibility in daily routine
• Personal grooming / hygiene abilities
• Work related behaviors
• Safety awareness
• Positive peer / adult relationships
• Ability to work independently
• Transition – ready
• Basic communication skills
• Mobility skills
• Community agency eligible
• Applicant assessment and interview

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Student Selection Process

Student eligibility is determined by the a team consisting of program administrator, site instructor and community college personnel.

• All referrals to come through DOTS Transition Resource Teacher personnel.
• DOTS will refer only students, whom they have previously worked with.
• Students should have an on campus job for one semester and then an off campus site the following semester if possible.
• The student should have at least one successful work experience prior to being referred.
• Student should exhibit signs of responsibility.
• Students should have some mobility training and or the ability and willingness to learn to travel independently on public buses.
  Student should demonstrate appropriate work related behaviors and attitudes. DOTS TRT’s should have teachers (more than one) complete the following forms:
  a) Behavioral checklist
  b) Pre – employment checklist
  c) Functional Capacities Analysis
  d) Check report cards for unsatisfactory grades in cooperation and work habits
• Student is capable of obtaining a direct hire position from an employer and not solely suited for supported employment through the Regional Center.
• Parents of the student should also desire for their child to travel independently and to maintain a direct hire position after the student completes the program.

CATS Applications

CATS Application Packet Letter - (English)

CATS Program Application - (English)

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CATS Application Packet Letter - (Spanish)

CATS Program Application - (Spanish)

East Los Angeles College
Contact: Lisa Raffaeli / Gilbert Richards
Telephone: (323) 265-8749

Los Angeles Harbor College
Contact: Secret Onoh
Telephone: (310) 233-4213

Los Angeles Trade-Technical College
Contact: Brenda Smith
Telephone: (213) 763-5330

Los Angeles Mission College
Contact: Jamie Trout
Telephone: (818) 264-7626

Pierce College
Contact: Annette Alexander
Telephone: (818) 710-2569

West Los Angeles College
Contact: Miriam Eden
Telephone: (310) 287-4319