The REAL (Rewarding Education Adult Living) Academy is a community living transition opportunity for youth with disabilities. The program helps students develop independent living skills while supporting students who may have a post-secondary goal of employment. The REAL Academy operates as a full day program for the entire school year. The curriculum of this program includes functional living skills including the following: social, budgeting, banking, shopping, cooking, housekeeping, management/organizational, public transportation, and employability. Opportunities for job shadowing/training activities occur both in the community and at the REAL Academy. Students are assessed using student portfolios, interest inventories, situational assessments and formal assessments. A special education teacher and a para-educator help students to reach their full potential.

Class Rotations for LIU and District Special Education classes are geared for teachers and students to utilize the REAL Academy facility to further enhance their transition instruction. Classes are scheduled to attend one full week each quarter for a total of four weeks. During the first week the students participate in kitchen activities and following recipes. The second week is devoted to housekeeping activities including making beds, washing windows, etc. The 2nd floor of the REAL Academy is set up for the student to work on skills such as table setting, stocking shelves, folding linens and office etiquette during the third week. Finally, during the fourth week the students participate in a transition project selected by their classroom teacher. This setting is appropriate for high school Life Skills, Physical Support, and Autistic Support classes.

The REAL Academy is located on Mill Street in Pittston, PA.