The Missing Elements of Transition

1. The Missing Elements of Transition

2. Who we are • People First of Louisiana • Statewide self-advocacy organization • Made up and led by individuals with disabilities • 18 chapters located throughout the state We represent about 400 people

3. Purpose of People First • Empower people to become better decision makers • Increase independence • Extend disability rights movement

4. Purpose of Transition • To help prepare for employment or post-secondary education, as well as inclusion in community life.

5. How does the purpose of People First and the purpose of Transition fit together? • Both need to involve younger individuals • Younger individuals need to be equipped with skills of self-advocacy and self-determination.

6. So this is what we did……

7. Key people involved in transition

8. Who was needed ESS Middle School Students

9. Process • Collaborated with Transition Specialist for EBR Schools • Met and discussed project with principal • Secured agreement and cooperation • Letters • Phone calls • Parents meeting • Teachers meeting

10. Process • Recruited ESS (Exceptional Student Services) High School Students • Feeder school • Prepared for presentation • Parental permission slips • High School Students presented material developed by People First with input from high school students

11. Process • 6th, 7th and 8th grade ESS (Exceptional Student Services) students • Three sessions • 1st day: Self-Advocacy • 2nd day: Self-Determination • 3rd day: Interactive game as review • Composed and distributed booklet including curriculum and students’ input

12. Lessons Learned • “Buy-in” from school, teachers and parents/family • Use high school students to present • Use high school ESS staff to select students/presenters

13. Lessons Learned • Prepare high school students to present • Need to use family facilitators to increase parental involvement

14. Lessons Learned • Small groups work better • Use People First staff, transition coordinator or teacher to be “host” in review game

15. Next Steps • Establish a People First Chapter at High School • Provide additional training • Potential mentoring component • Develop evaluation • Measure effectiveness of approach • Longitudinal ??

16. Questions??

17. Sharon Hennessey, Executive Director shennessey@peoplefirstla.org Ashley Serrett, Training Director aserrett@peoplefirstla.org (225)-383-1033 606 Colonial Drive, Suite I Baton Rouge, LA 70806