VDOE :: Special Education & Student Services :: Transition Services for Students with Disabilities



Virginia Intercommunity Transition Council
Planning for Success!
The key to a successful transition is careful planning. Students must be actively involved in the planning process.

EMPLOYMENT

Why work? People work because it gives meaning and value to their lives. Some of the rewards of work are: earning money being independent receiving benefits, such as medical coverage feeling good about what you do making a difference having friends being creative being productive

What are some work choices? After high school, some people begin work right away. Others choose to work and go to school. Some people try many different jobs to find out what they like to do and don't like to do. Few people work at the same job all their lives.

What job options exist? full/part-time jobs supported employment sheltered employment volunteer jobs apprenticeships employment training military service job sharing

Is help available for people with disabilities who want to work? All people with disabilities can work. Some may need accommodations or supports to do the job A federal law, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), protects job applicants from discrimination because of their disabilities. Qualified workers can receive appropriate supports and accommodations in the workplace. Examples of supports and accommodations on the job include: wheelchair accessible workplace work schedule modifications equipment modifications job coaching assistive technology employee mentors
Skills are needed to get and keep a job Young adults who have had some work experience while in high school have a better chance at getting and keeping a job than those who have no previous experience. While in school, students can prepare for work by learning in school and on the job to be on time be responsible take directions from supervisors respond appropriately to constructive criticism get along with coworkers and supervisors follow directions solve problems perform specific job tasks be persistent and willing to work
What families and teachers can do? Families and teachers can set examples through work habits help students understand how people communicate with and without words respect all kinds of work support creativity encourage students to fully participate in meetings teach coping skills help students explain their disabilities and needed accommodations help students explore interests arrange work experiences encourage students to work part time or volunteer in the summer help students identify the courses that will prepare them for employment teach students job seeking and job keeping skills encourage independent decision making

Things to consider when choosing a job? What are the job duties? Is this job a good match for my abilities and interests? Is this a work environment for me? Do I need any accommodations on the job? Shall I tell the employer about my disability? Pros and cons of my disability? Will this job improve or stop any disability or medical benefits? What are the salary and benefits? What transportation do I need? How does it fit with my previous work experience? Opportunities for advancement? Is there a training program?

Who can help? Previous employers Friends and family People who know the student's abilities and interests Guidance and career advisors Teachers Department of Rehabilitative Services Social Security Administration Community Services Boards Virginia Employment Commission Local job fairs

For more information, contact your local Special Education Director, local Rehabilitative Services Office, or the Virginia Department of Education

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