Tips

All Tuesday Tips

Indiana is undergoing an employment systems transformation. Important changes may affect the students you support, especially those with significant disability impacts. These changes mean students using an Indiana waiver will no longer be able to attend state-funded, facility-based prevocational services (sheltered employment). Helping students understand their postsecondary employment options is critical. As they progress, developing an employment vision becomes increasingly important.

How Educators Can Empower Informed Choice Regarding Employment

Transition services and activities within the IEP offer a powerful avenue for developing students' employment visions. By incorporating concrete, action-oriented goals, students can articulate their future aspirations more clearly. Transition services and activities to consider might include:

  1. Facilitating and creating job shadowing opportunities for students.
  2. Developing and coordinating informational interviewing with local industry leaders.
  3. Helping students research the goods and services Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) offers.
  4. Collaborating with students to create one dedicated transition portfolio page that includes the:
    • Ideal conditions a student optimally needs at work.
    • Student’s most persistent strengths, including soft and hard skills.
    • Kind of supports, both at work and outside of work, a student will need to be successful and maintain a job.
  5. Exploring meaningful day options to ensure each student has balanced and holistic well-being.  ​

As always, connect students to VR as early as possible, no later than their junior year of high school. Students may now concurrently receive VR and Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). Lastly, make sure the student can access his/her electronic transition portfolio after graduation.

Bonus Tips:

The Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) occurs online beginning January 28 and runs through March 4, 2025. These sessions are offered in both Spanish and English. To learn more, visit the English FEAT registration and Spanish FEAT registration webpages.

The Indiana School Mental Health Initiative (ISMHI), part of the Center on Education and Lifelong Learning (CELL), will host Indiana’s 7th Annual Educating the Whole Child Summit on February 7, 2025, at the Embassy Suites Plainfield Indianapolis Airport Hotel. The keynote speaker, Cornelius Minor, a Brooklyn-based educator, will provide valuable insights on fostering equitable literacy reform. To learn more and register, visit the ISMHI events page.

Psychologist William James notes, "A chain is no stronger than its weakest link, and life is after all a chain." Each link is vital to the strength and connectedness of the whole. This Thanksgiving, we extend our gratitude for your dedication to traveling alongside students whose lives are comparatively more challenging and complex. Your efforts strengthen our interconnected community by supporting and enabling students toward personal achievement.

You empower students to take control of their lives and set ambitious goals. By fostering their courage and confidence, you inspire them to pursue a life of achievement and personal fulfillment. Your unwavering commitment strengthens our community and enables us to overcome challenges together.

You may not hear this very often but know that we are thankful for your contributions and value the impact you make in the lives of the children in our community—and we are proud to partner with you.

With heartfelt thanks,

Your friends at the Indiana Secondary Transition Resource Center (INSTRC)

Bonus Tip:

The Transition Educators Facilitating Employment course starts on January 13, 2025! This 10-week, comprehensive online training gives educators, specialists, Pre-ETS providers, transition coordinators, and other professionals the foundation, techniques, and effective strategies necessary for successful adult vocational transition.

Course modules include:

  • Developing Transition Programs within the Traditional School Environment
  • The Evolution of Supported and Customized Employment
  • Principles of Supported and Customized Employment
  • Roles, Responsibilities, and Expectations
  • Discovery and Customized Employment
  • Marketing for Employment Services
  • Job Development, Training, and Workplace Supports
  • Assistive Technology
  • Federal Programs for Businesses and People with Disabilities
  • Criminal Justice Involvement

This online, self-paced course costs $250. For more information and to register, visit the CCLC Transition Educators Training webpage.

By now you’ve heard the exciting news that the Transition IEP Guidebook has a new look with updated features to guide you through writing a transition IEP. One exciting new component in the Transition IEP Guidebook is the case studies of two students receiving special education services.

Lucy is a 15-year-old high school student with significant impacts of disability. She has a severe cognitive disability and is on an alternative diploma track.

Rita is a high school senior on a diploma track that receives speech services for a speech impairment classified as stuttering. She has frequent problems with the normal fluency and flow of speech that inhibit her ability to speak and communicate frequently.

As you make your way through the Guidebook, you will learn how to create a quality and useful document in each section of the transition IEP. Follow Lucy and Rita's journeys to understand each section of the transition IEP, including:

  • Present Levels of Academic and Functional Performance
  • Summary of Findings of Age-Appropriate Transition Assessments
  • Postsecondary Goals
  • Transition Services and Activities
  • Annual Goal Statements

Lucy and Rita’s examples, the direct transition services and annual goal examples, and other transition information included make the Guidebook a valuable resource for educators.

Bonus Tips:

The Transition Educators Facilitating Employment course starts on January 13, 2025! This 10-week, comprehensive online training gives educators, specialists, Pre-ETS providers, transition coordinators, and other professionals the foundation, techniques, and effective strategies necessary for successful adult vocational transition.

Course modules include:

  • Developing Transition Programs within the Traditional School Environment
  • The Evolution of Supported and Customized Employment
  • Principles of Supported and Customized Employment
  • Roles, Responsibilities, and Expectations
  • Discovery and Customized Employment
  • Marketing for Employment Services
  • Job Development, Training, and Workplace Supports
  • Assistive Technology
  • Federal Programs for Businesses and People with Disabilities
  • Criminal Justice Involvement

This online, self-paced course costs $250. For more information and to register, visit the CCLC Transition Educators Training webpage.

We invite you to participate in Comprehensive Transition Open Office Hours every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30 PM Eastern Time. During these sessions, you can speak with subject matter experts in dedicated breakout rooms. CCLC staff can address inquiries concerning transition portfolios, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Social Security Work Incentives, Vocational Rehabilitation, and other transition-related topics. To join, use the Zoom link.

The Transition IEP Guidebook is a new resource from the Indiana Secondary Transition Resource Center (INSTRC) to help educators develop quality transition IEPs. This Guidebook also includes useful resources and examples, replacing the Transition IEP Rubric. Parents may use this resource to better understand different components of a transition IEP.

As you explore each section of the Guidebook, you'll get to know Lucy and Rita.

Lucy, a 15-year-old tenth grader with multiple severe cognitive disabilities, and Rita, a senior on the diploma track who receives speech services, are the focus of the case studies.

The case studies illustrate each section of the IEP, including:

  • Present Levels of Academic and Functional Performance (PLAFP)
  • Transition Assessments
  • Postsecondary Goals
  • Transition Services and Activities
  • Annual Goals

Appendix A provides examples of Transition Services and Activities. This section includes quick reference guide that demonstrates how postsecondary goals and transition services align within an IEP. Additionally, it explains the rationale behind each service and provides both quality and non-compliant examples.

Appendix B includes examples of Annual Goals for a diverse range of student needs. These goals are both skill-based and measurable, making them a valuable resource for comparing compliant and quality IEP components. Under each goal topic, you'll find non-compliant, compliant, and quality examples, along with explanations for each.

Share this great new resource with your friends and colleagues!

Bonus Tips:

The virtual Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) starts in January! Join us for free English and Spanish sessions from 6:00–8:00 p.m. ET. All sessions are open to families, transition-age students and young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.

Upcoming English sessions:

  • January 28
  • February 4, 11, 18, 12
  • March 4

Upcoming Spanish sessions:

  • January 30
  • February 6, 13, 20, 27
  • March 6

For more FEAT information and to register for these and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage.

Drumroll, please…. We’re excited to announce that the new Transition Individualized Education Program (IEP) Guidebook, formerly known as the Transition IEP Rubric, is here!

So, what’s different besides the name? A few features of the Guidebook have changed. 

The new features include:

  • An expanded table of contents.
    • The Guidebook features a detailed table of contents with twelve numbered sections for easy navigation.
  • Considerations for student-led IEP meetings.
    • Want to get your student more involved in participating and leading their own case conference? The Guidebook contains some practical tools and resources for you to do just that!
    • Remember, the goal is for students to feel knowledgeable and be active members of the team. Start with small steps and gradually increase their involvement as they become more comfortable.
  • Thorough descriptions of each section of the Transition Individualized Education Program (IEP).
    • Each component of the transition IEP is explained in detail with examples to guide you along the way. Need a refresher on a particular section? We’ve got you covered.
    • Information from Transition Services and Activities: Making the Connection is now included in this guidebook. To reference the full document and its case studies visit: Transition Services and Activities: Making the Connection.
  • Written statements or case studies that illustrate quality components and alignment of the transition.
    • Get ready to meet Lisa and Rita. As you explore the Guidebook, their real-world stories will bring each component of the transition IEP to life. You'll learn how to document these components effectively through case studies.
  • Diploma decisions and graduation pathways for Indiana students.
    • The Guidebook has been updated with the most recent Indiana diploma options. Check the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) website regularly as diploma information is continuing to develop.
  • Principles and process of supported decision-making.
    • The Guidebook includes new information and resources on supporting students and parents when discussing supported decision-making and guardianship.
  • Appendices with valuable insights and key points.
    • Appendices include information about quality annual goals and transition services, including examples of each.

Coming soon!  An updated Indiana Diploma Decisions Guide that will explain diploma and graduation options for Indiana students.

 

Bonus Tips:

The virtual Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) starts in January! Join us for free English and Spanish sessions from 6:00–8:00 p.m. ET. All sessions are open to families, transition-age students and young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.

Upcoming English sessions:

  • January 28
  • February 4, 11, 18, 12
  • March 4

Upcoming Spanish sessions:

  • January 30
  • February 6, 13, 20, 27
  • March 6

For more FEAT information and to register for these and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage

Administered through the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community (IIDC), FINDER is a robust, online collection packed with navigational aids to assist in finding Indiana-specific, disability-related resources and services. Developed originally by the AWS Foundation, this informational reservoir, including a service directory, program information, an events calendar, and articles features a step-by-step user guide, making this a powerful tool for teachers, students, and families.

Patti Hays, CEO of AWS Foundation, shares, “Combined with IIDC’s leadership and specialized skills and experience, FINDER provides the latest technology to expand collaboration and develop new partnerships to help empower parents, teachers, caregivers, and others to find answers to disability-related questions and become a more informed advocate.” Read on to learn how educators can incorporate FINDER into various IEP-related activities.

Use FINDER in Creative Ways:

  • Educators can use FINDER to:
    • provide computer navigation practice to students.
    • develop self-sufficiency skills, such as locating and researching local adult and adolescent health care options.
    • connect families to critically needed, non-education related services, such as housing, food provision, clothing, tax assistance, mental health needs and so much more.
  • Students can use FINDER to support accomplishing transition service/activity goals, such as:
    • locating adult employment service agencies, as these adult agencies provide services to facilitate postsecondary employment goals.
    • finding housing-related resources in their community.
    • collecting information on various postsecondary-related services (e.g., transportation, health care, benefits counseling) locally, within their state, or nationally.

To learn more about FINDER and how to navigate its features, watch the FINDER Introduction video.

Bonus Tip:

The virtual Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) starts in January! Join us for free English and Spanish sessions from 6:00–8:00 p.m. ET. All sessions are open to families, transition-age students and young adults with disabilities, and the professionals who support them.

Upcoming English sessions:

  • January 28
  • February 4, 11, 18, 12
  • March 4

Upcoming Spanish sessions:

  • January 30
  • February 6, 13, 20, 27
  • March 6

For more FEAT information and to register for these and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage.

When education professionals and families manage transition programming together, students receive collaborative, comprehensive services that may lead to better postsecondary outcomes. Collaboration is important to create tailored curricula and supports across service providers. Students are more likely to leave high school employed and with community-living skills that promote and sustain independence when professionals work as a team. Developing an interagency team requires reevaluating roles and expectations as well as identifying any service gaps that may impact postsecondary outcomes.

Developing Cohesive Teams

Transition teams often include students, parents or guardians, special education teachers, and building administrators. For more comprehensive support, teams may also benefit from the expertise of professionals in physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, nursing, and behavioral management.

Offering Holistic Service Provision

Interagency teams can bring in additional professionals for holistic service provision. That includes early needs assessments, pre-employment training, and connections to Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselors. As students seek jobs, benefits counselors can help them understand the impact of earned income on government programs, including work incentives. If the students have a Medicaid waiver, their case manager ensures adult services are planned and in place at the time of graduation.

Case Studies on Collaboration

The following organizations highlight effective processes for collaboration. Way2Work Maryland's interagency team bridges service gaps and encourages shared responsibility among stakeholders. Their program operates by the acronym, MOST – Motivation to Succeed, Openness and Mutual Respect, Support for Team Goals, and Trust in Each Other.

The Vermont Core Transition Teams and Workforce Collaboration Model expand interagency team membership to college programs, adult learning programs, the Department of Labor, family networks and centers, and other programs working with youth. These programs demonstrate how effective transition planning requires a collaborative approach, leveraged by shared expertise across diverse service sectors.

Bonus Tips:

We invite you to participate in Comprehensive Transition Open Office Hours every Thursday from 2:30 to 4:30 PM Eastern Time. During these sessions, you can speak with subject matter experts in dedicated breakout rooms. CCLC staff can address inquiries concerning transition portfolios, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Social Security Work Incentives, Vocational Rehabilitation, and other transition-related topics. To join, use the Zoom link.

The second session of the Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) kicks off in Batesville on Friday, October 25. Help us spread the word! Share this free learning opportunity with families, students, and colleagues. To register for this and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage.

It's election season! On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, important national, state, and local elections will take place. All U.S. citizens aged 18 and older have the right to vote.

To cast a ballot in elections, adult citizens must register as voters. During an election year, like this one, the deadline to register to vote in most states is no later than November 1st. In Indiana, you must have registered to vote at least 29 days before election day, A few states allow same-day voter registration. Visit the Rock the Vote website to find out if your state offers this option and what the specific requirements are.

Legally, voting sites and voting options must be accessible to people with different disabilities. This includes the building, voting booths, machines, and access to voting options for those with vision, mobility, and reading disabilities. The US Election Assistance Commission provides information about accessible voting. After clicking on the US Election Assistance link above, select Voting Accessibility and then scroll down to the Voters section for more information.

Once registered, voters cast ballots at their designated precinct or polling place. Students should create a voting plan, research candidates and issues, and be cautious of misinformation, particularly online. The internet and social media can be valuable resources for informed voting, but students should learn how to critically evaluate the information.

To help young adults stay informed, we've compiled a list of helpful resources. Some of these links will take you to social media platforms, where you can find engaging content about voting. Keep in mind that not all TikTok videos offer closed captions.

Bonus Tips:

October is packed with learning opportunities. Join the third webinar of our fall series:

  • Portfolios and Profiles: Portals to Competitive, Integrated Employment (CIE)

This session will take place on Thursday, October 17 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. To register, visit the INSTRC Training and Technical Assistance webpage.

The Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) kicks off in Batesville, Indiana Friday, October 25. Help us spread the word! Share this free learning opportunity with families, students, and colleagues. To register for this and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage.

Why is teaching healthcare skills to students with disabilities important?

As youth transition to adulthood, the ability to monitor their health and medical needs becomes vital. From managing medications, making appointments and filling out forms, to transitioning from pediatrics to adult providers, these skills are crucial for a healthy future. Health Care Transition (HCT) focuses on building these skills, fostering self-advocacy, and preparing individuals for the adult model of care. These efforts will:

  1. Promote Self Advocacy and Independence: Empowering students to take charge of their health prepares them for a successful transition to adulthood. By learning to advocate for themselves, students develop a vital skill that benefits them in all aspects of life. They become more confident in communicating their needs and preferences to healthcare providers and others.
  2. Improve Health Outcomes and Enhance Quality of Life: Effective health condition management can significantly improve health outcomes, reduce complications, and enhance overall quality of life. This allows individuals to fully participate in all aspects of their lives.
  3. Reduce Healthcare Costs: Participating in health-promoting activities can significantly reduce healthcare costs by decreasing the need for emergency room visits and hospitalizations. This benefits individuals, their families, and the overall healthcare system.
  4. Facilitate Smooth Transition: Teaching HCT skills ensures a smoother transition from pediatric to adult healthcare. This reduces the risk of gaps in care and ensures continuity of treatment.
  5. Support Long-Term Success: Developing healthcare skills early in life helps students establish healthy habits and gain confidence in communicating and advocating for their needs. This sets the foundation for lifelong well-being.

The following resources can help assess, write IEP annual goals, and teach Health Care Transition skills to students.

Bonus Tips:

October is packed with learning opportunities. Join the third webinar of our fall series:

  • Portfolios and Profiles: Portals to Competitive, Integrated Employment (CIE)

This session will take place on Thursday, October 17 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. To register, visit the INSTRC Training and Technical Assistance webpage.

The Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) kicks off in Batesville, Indiana Friday, October 25. Help us spread the word! Share this free learning opportunity with families, students, and colleagues. To register for this and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage.

In March 2024, one of our Tuesday’s Transition Tips introduced WorkOne Centers and what they do. Today’s tip will introduce additional resources teachers can share with students. Through WorkOne centers, students can access various tools, develop comprehensive work plans, and explore different career paths. The centers connect students to education and training options, helping them develop job skills through certificates, degrees, or other career training programs. WorkOne Centers advertise job affairs and hiring events, help job seekers create resumes, apply for jobs online, and connect with community employment services.

WorkOne Centers cater to various populations with higher employment needs. Young adults can utilize the following programs:

Teachers can assist their students in accessing vital information and services through their local WorkOne Centers. The Indiana WorkOne website offers information on all the centers in Indiana. Connect with your center today!

Bonus Tips:

CCLC’s comprehensive webinar series on Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and Transition Portfolios starts next week. Join us for an immersive learning experience that guides transition-age students toward competitive, integrated employment, higher education, and independent living opportunities, but also fosters their overall growth and integration within the community.

To register for these upcoming webinars, visit the INSTRC Training and Technical Assistance webpage.

The Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) kicks off in Batesville, Indiana next week. Help us spread the word! Share this free learning opportunity with families, students, and colleagues. To register for this and other events, visit the CCLC FEAT webpage.