Transition Program (Bridges to Life)
The Bridges to Life (BtL) Transition Program at the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind empowers students ages 18–21 to take ownership of their next chapter. Rooted in our commitment to language, learning, and leadership, BtL equips young adults for life beyond high school through post-secondary education, workforce training, and independent living. Students gain real world experience through college courses, vocational programs, and community job placements guided by Deaf and Blind specialists. Residential living fosters independence, while mentorship grounded in lived experience helps students build confidence, purpose, and self-advocacy and prepares every BtL student to reach the summit.
Julie Novak Harrison, M.Ed., TSVI, COMS, MT-BC, serves as the Coordinator of the Bridges to Life (BtL) Transition Program at the Colorado School for the Deaf and the Blind. Julie began her career at CSDB in 2002 and has dedicated the majority of her professional career to the school, primarily serving as a music educator before stepping into her current leadership role with the Bridges to Life program.
Julie holds certifications as a Teacher of the Visually Impaired and an Orientation and Mobility Specialist, as well as Board Certification in Music Therapy. This interdisciplinary background informs her holistic approach to transition planning.
Julie’s work is grounded in the belief that all people have the right to live, love, work, play, and pursue their aspirations within their community. She is committed to building inclusive, experiential programs that empower students to lead self-determined and meaningful adult lives.