Transition Academy
"While I’ve been at TA, I’ve learned how to interview for jobs, meal plan, find a doctor, and prioritize my responsibilities. I have a good balance of independence while still having a safety net when things feel hard. I get to cook for myself, but unlike college, I’m reminded to make sure I’m taking care of my meals even when I feel overwhelmed."
What is the Transition Academy?
The 29 Acres Transition Academy is a two-year residential transition program located in the Dallas–Fort Worth area of Texas, offered in partnership with Texas Woman’s University. The program provides young adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in an inclusive college experience. Through academic coursework, career-focused work experiences, campus involvement, and community engagement, students develop the skills necessary to pursue meaningful employment and achieve greater independence following graduation.
The Academy Mission
The 29 Acres Transition Academy empowers young adults with autism and other intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently and succeed in competitive employment.
The Academy Vision
Through evidence-based practices, inclusive education and natural supports, 29 Acres cultivates meaningful growth in employment, independence, health, and overall well-being- helping to ensure a confident, successful transition to independent living and adulthood.
The Experience
Over the course of two years, students cultivate the knowledge, practical skills, and self confidence necessary to transition towards greater independence and adult success.
Year 1
Students focus on building a strong foundation for independent living. Instruction emphasizes financial literacy, medication management, and the development of essential daily living skills such as organization, time management, and personal responsibility. Students also participate in structured volunteer experiences designed to build work readiness, community engagement, and professional behavior.
Year 2
Students expand upon the competencies developed in Year One by applying their skills in increasingly independent, real-world settings. Financial and daily living skills are practiced with greater autonomy, while individualized career exploration becomes a central focus. Students collaborate with an employment specialist to identify career interests, engage in job development activities, and secure meaningful employment, further strengthening their readiness for sustainable, independent adulthood.
The Application Process
1
Submit an Information Request
Complete the Information Request and Tour Form or contact us directly at connect@29acres.org or
469-216-8038 to begin the conversation.
2
Complete the Online Application
Applicants and their support team will receive a three-part online application via email. All required documentation must be submitted, along with a non-refundable $300 application fee.
3
Interview
Once all materials have been received and reviewed, and the program appears to be a good fit, we will contact you to schedule an interview. Interviews typically last approximately 90 minutes.
4
Trial Day
Applicants participate in a trial day to experience a “day in the life” of the program. This provides an opportunity to learn program expectations, meet peers and staff, and ask questions. The trial day helps determine whether the program is the right fit for both the applicant and 29 Acres.
5
Admission Decision
Applicants who successfully complete the process may be offered placement in the incoming class. Upon acceptance, a welcome packet will be provided, including a service agreement.
If an applicant is not accepted into Transition Academy, alternative program or support service recommendations will be shared.
Curriculum
Students take a series of courses focused on relationships, financial literacy, vocational skills, health and wellness, and independent living. In partnership with Texas Woman’s University, all classes take place on the TWU campus and are taught by our Master’s level Transition Academy instructor. Students may also enroll in credit-bearing coursework when appropriate and receive staff support in study and organizational skills. In addition, individualized mentoring and support allow students to strengthen and generalize life skills by applying what they learn in both classroom and real-world environments.
Where You Live
During the first year, students develop foundational independent living skills in a supportive and nurturing environment. The program begins with living in family-style homes in the Little Elm community, providing students with the opportunity to practice their independent living skills with support from highly trained life skills coaches. In the second year, students transition to 2 and 3- bedroom unit apartments in Denton, where they continue to build on the skills learned during the first year and further develop their independence.
Fees and Inclusions
The 2025–2026 annual fee for Transition Academy is $64,575 ($5,381 per month), plus an estimated $1,300 per year Texas Woman’s University tuition fee. Partial scholarships may be available based on financial need - please inquire during the application process.
The program fee includes:
- Private bedroom in a shared home with peers
- Appliances and utilities
- Research-based, proven curriculum
- Clinical support services provided by highly trained staff
- Employment support staff
- Individualized case management
Employment
The employment component of 29 Acres Transition Academy prepares students for success in competitive, career-focused opportunities. Through hands-on learning, students gain practical work experience, strengthen vocational skills, and develop confidence and essential soft skills.
In the first year, students volunteer across five different vocational pathways, gaining exposure to various industries while building a foundation for long-term employment. In the second year, students focus more deeply on their career goals, guided by our vocational specialist, who provides personalized support, resources, and job placement assistance.
Each pathway is tailored to develop the specialized skills and experience needed to thrive in students’ chosen fields, helping them achieve meaningful careers and lasting workforce success.
Outcomes: How 29 Acres Transition Academy Helps
OF TRANSITION ACADEMY STUDENTS ARE EMPLOYED
OF TRANSITION ACADEMY STUDENTS CAN COOK A MEAL
REDUCTION IN THE COST OF SUPPORT SERVICES AFTER COMPLETING OUR TRANSITION ACADEMY
OF TRANSITION ACADEMY STUDENTS LIVE INDEPENDENTLY AFTER PROGRAM COMPLETION
OF TRANSITION ACADEMY STUDENTS ARE SATISFIED WITH THE NUMBER OF FRIENDS THEY HAVE
OF TRANSITION ACADEMY STUDENTS CAN TAKE AND REFILL MEDICATIONS INDEPENDENTLY
Student Eligibility
Transition Academy is for young adults who are at least 18 years old and have completed high school or an equivalent program. Eligible students have functional math and writing skills (with or without assistive technology) and can read at least at a fourth-grade level. They demonstrate the ability to set and achieve personal goals and have an interest in gaining independence through employment and developing social, communication, health, and life skills.
Students show the ability to adapt to change, take personal responsibility for their actions, respect others, and follow program rules. Eligible students have limited or no history of aggressive or disruptive behavior, with no recent incidents within the past three years.
Common Questions
How do we ensure client safety in the houses?
All houses are equipped with security systems and cameras at all exit doors. Students receive instruction on safety protocols, and staff are available at all times to respond to overnight emergencies.
Does Transition Academy allow alcohol?
No. Alcohol consumption is prohibited on all Transition Academy properties and at all supported functions.
How often can students go home?
Students may visit home up to two weekends per month, from Friday evening through Sunday.
Can students date while enrolled?
Fraternization between students currently enrolled in the program is prohibited. With parental consent, students may date after completing the “Relationships 3” course part of our curriculum.
Do you accept students who are not their own legal guardians?
Yes. We accept students who are not their own legal guardians.
Do students share a bedroom?
No, all students will have their own private bedroom.
29 Acres Programs
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