The United States Department of Education states, “By 2027, 70 percent of jobs will require education or training beyond high school.” That's a lot of competition! Setting and achieving quality postsecondary education or training goals helps students stand out. These goals guide students through the often-micromanaged territory of high school to the diverse and often challenging world of higher education or career training programs. Research shows that goal setting is a powerful tool for success. The National Technical Assistance Center on Transition (NTACT) even lists it as one of the top predictors for positive post-school outcomes for students with disabilities.
Why Postsecondary Education and Training Goals Matter
- Enhance Future Opportunities: They help students align their current educational experiences with their long-term career aspirations and the training needed to obtain them. Whether they’re aiming for college, vocational certification, or on-the-job learning, clear goals ensure a smooth transition.
- Promote Self-Advocacy and Independence: Students gain a sense of ownership over their future and learn to articulate their needs. These skills are essential for navigating higher education and the workforce.
- Align with Individual Strengths and Interests: Effective postsecondary goals are tailored to a student's individual strengths, preferences, and interests. This personalized approach helps prevent disengagement and leads to a rewarding educational experience.
- Provide Tailored Support: Clear goals help educators and families identify and provide specific support, such as Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services, academic counseling, career exploration activities, or specialized training programs.
- Foster Long-Term Success: Students with well-defined goals and a roadmap for achieving them are more likely to complete postsecondary education and training. This leads to better job opportunities and overall life satisfaction.
Quality postsecondary education and training goals are a roadmap to success, guiding students towards meaningful opportunities, fostering independence, and supporting their future. By prioritizing these goals, we ensure that every student has the chance to realize their full potential and achieve their dreams.
Resources
- Post-Secondary Education Outcomes for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Behavioral Sciences, MDPI
- Raise the Bar: Postsecondary and Career Pathways, U.S. Department of Education
- Secondary Transition Predictors of Postschool Success: An Update to the Research Base, Career Development and Transition for Exceptional Individuals, Sage
CCLC has upcoming trainings for educators who want to strengthen their knowledge of transition IEPs and portfolios! Our sessions include:
- Developing Quality Transition IEPs
- Using the Transition IEP to Focus Education and Build Relationships
- Portfolios and Profiles: Portals to Competitive, Integrated Employment (CIE)
To register for these upcoming webinars, visit the INSTRC Training and Technical Assistance webpage.
Bonus Tip: The Family Employment Awareness Training (FEAT) kicks off in Batesville this October. 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.