'Strengthening a Learner's Transition to Independence'

Welcome to the MITTIN Memo


In this edition we are excited to highlight our MITTIN implementation and some of our newly released one-touch navigation modules. Towards the end of the MITTIN Memo, you will find future opportunities to engage, share and contribute to MITTIN - we are so much stronger together. If you have any questions or interested in getting involved, you can contact project manager at: [email protected].


Thank you for your interest and support in MITTIN.


Best Regards,

Dr. Derek Cooley,

MITTIN Committee Chair

Engagement & Implementation

Since our last edition of the MITTIN Memo, we have been facilitating and engaging with parents, educators, preservice teachers and service providers in a variety of settings. In the photo is Ashleigh Moro & Jenna Kogut two amazing educators and presenters of the MITTIN instructional resources and modules. Over the past couple weeks, MITTIN was able to connect with over 75 attendees at the Michigan Transition Services Association (MTSA), 130 attendees at the Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC) Conference and numerous others at transition meetings, ISDs and local schools.

MITTIN Module One-Touch Navigation Updates


As MITTIN modules have been tested and released in the field, we have received important feedback from users. One recommendation was the need for a one-touch navigation of the modules. The amazing designers at Great Lakes Reality Labs have begun re-releasing our currents modules with this new format -- making navigation more accessible to learners and leaders alike.


Descriptions of two of our newly re-released modules are below. MITTIN modules are available on STEAM, the Google Play Store or can be downloaded via a zip file at mittin.org.

Use Self Check-Out


When the learner begins the module, they will be at a self checkout kiosk. They will practice how to scan, weigh and purchase groceries.


Instructional Steps Include:

  1. Scan all grocery items and place them into the shopping bag, leaving the produce for last.
  2. Using the self checkout screen, click on the "Look up Produce" button.
  3. Select bananas.
  4. Weight bananas by placing them on the scanner. Place the bananas in the bag.
  5. Using the self checkout screen, click on the "Finish and Pay" button.
  6. Insert the payment card into the card scanner.
  7. Wait until the checkout screen says, "Thank you" and remove your card.

Cross the Street


When the learner begins the module, they will find themselves on the sidewalk of a two-way street. The module will ask them to safely cross the street. While playing the module, it will track their progress and provide feedback.


Instructional Steps Include:

  1. Walk up the sidewalk and stop when you reach the crosswalk.
  2. Look both ways, up and down the street.
  3. Wait for a large break in traffic.
  4. Safely cross the street by: staying within the crosswalk, and completely crossing to the other sidewalk.

Happy 1st Birthday

& Happy St. Patrick's Day

to the youngest member of our MITTIN Team


Anthony is the son of Kathy & Tommy Truong.

Tommy is the President of Great Lakes Reality Labs & CEO of Haptix Studios - where the magic of MITTIN module design is created.


Happy Birthday Anthony!

What is MITTIN?

MITTIN – MIchigan Transition To INdependence is a dynamic collection of modules and curricular resources which foster the development of independent living skills in the home and community. Designed to support special education transition-related instruction, these resources are free and available to for all parents, schools, educators and learners in Michigan. MITTIN is a partnership of the Michigan Association of Administrators of Special Education (MAASE), Michigan Council for Exceptional Children (MCEC), Great Lakes Reality Labs (GLRL) and Public Policy Associates (PPA). These resources can be found at: mittin.org


Safety and Independence at Home

MITTIN currently has seven topics which focus on strengthening skills which promote safety and independence at home. 

  • Change a Light Bulb
  • Clean Flat Surfaces
  • Clean the Bedroom
  • Put Away Groceries
  • Use a Microwave
  • Use an Oven
  • Use a Stove



Safety and Independence in the Community

MITTIN currently has four topics which focus on strengthening skills which promote safety and independence in the community.

  • Cross the Street 
  • Shop for Groceries
  • Walk Through a Parking Lot
  • Use Self-Checkout

Upcoming Engagements & Events

MITTIN is presenting, engaging and/or facilitating:


March 21, 2023

@ MITTIN Virtual PLC


April 7, 2023

@ UPrep Hosting - MITTIN Field Trip

Detroit, Michigan

For more information, visit our website:  mittin.org