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A Pioneering Vision for Life After High School

OPTIONS Transitions to Independence was created to meet a need that few recognized at the time:
what happens after high school for capable students who are not yet ready for independent adulthood.

Its history is rooted in innovation, persistence, and a belief that independence is something that can be taught, practiced, and earned over time.

Foundations at Brehm Preparatory School

OPTIONS grew out of the work of Brehm Preparatory School, founded in 1982 by Carol Brehm.

Carol Brehm recognized that many students with learning disabilities succeeded in structured secondary settings — yet faced significant challenges when transitioning into adulthood. Her work was inspired in part by her son, Tyson, and expanded through her commitment to supporting families navigating similar paths.

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, it became clear that a post-secondary bridge was needed — one focused not on grades, but on independence.

1980s–1999

Early Beginnings (Late 1980s–1999)

OPTIONS began as a post-secondary transition year for Brehm graduates who had completed high school but were not yet ready for independent living.

Students lived on campus while receiving continued structure, coaching, and guidance. At that time, there were no established models or government funding streams for post-high school programs serving individuals with learning disabilities.

OPTIONS was helping define a field that did not yet formally exist.

1999–2008

Expanding Into the Community (1999–2008)

As interest grew, OPTIONS expanded beyond the Brehm campus into downtown Carbondale and surrounding residential areas.

Key milestones included:

  • Transitioning into off-campus housing at the Woodruff Apartments

  • Establishing academic and support spaces in the Bening Building

  • Expanding residential options to create a community-based model

During this period, a clear philosophy emerged:

Independence would be built in the community — not apart from it.

One of the First of Its Kind

By the early 2000s, OPTIONS was recognized as one of the first post-secondary transition programs for individuals with learning disabilities in the United States.

It stood alongside early pioneers such as:

  • Life Development Center (Arizona)

  • Lighthouse (Boston)

  • Landmark College

Together, these institutions helped establish post-secondary transition programming as a legitimate and necessary educational pathway.

OPTIONS distinguished itself through:

  • A strong independent living focus

  • Community integration

  • Vocational training and internships

  • Partnerships with local colleges

2008 – Present

Establishing a Permanent Campus (2008–Present)

As the program matured, OPTIONS sought a permanent, centralized location.

In the late 2000s, it acquired a former chiropractic building through a courthouse auction — a defining moment that secured a long-term headquarters.

This transition allowed for:

  • Centralized academic and administrative services

  • Purpose-built learning spaces

  • Greater stability and program cohesion

The campus at 900 South Brehm Lane reflects decades of growth and adaptation.

Planning for the Future

Throughout its history, OPTIONS leadership and families explored innovative models to ensure long-term support for individuals with learning differences — including ideas for planned communities and trusteeship structures.

While not all visions were fully realized, these efforts reflected a consistent concern shared by families:
how to ensure safety, dignity, and independence across a lifetime.

That question continues to guide OPTIONS’ work today.

Continuing a Legacy of Innovation

From its beginnings as a small post-secondary extension to its role today as a comprehensive transition program, OPTIONS has remained focused on one mission:

Helping young adults build the skills, confidence, and independence needed for meaningful adult lives.

Its early pioneering work helped shape a field — and its continued evolution ensures that students receive support that adapts to changing needs and opportunities.

Learn How OPTIONS Supports Today’s Students

While the program has grown and changed, its purpose remains the same.

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