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Employment

Resources and guidelines for educators, parents and agencies that will assist transition age youth identify and move toward their postsecondary goals in the area of employment.

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The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) provides services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities.

School Preparation
School-based preparatory experiences occur in the educational environment. This section focuses on engaging students in instruction, career assessment, career exploration, and career planning.

Career Preparation
Career preparation and work-based learning is experience and instruction that occurs in the community, or brings community partners to the classroom, to help youth develop confidence in making informed choices about their future employment goals. This section focuses on engaging students in career exploration, career preparation, job search, and employment.

Youth Development
Youth Development and youth leadership are critical to helping youth with disabilities meet the challenges of adolescence and adulthood. It is important that they learn the leadership skills and self-advocacy skills needed for achieving their postsecondary employment goals and success in the workplace.

Family
Families support, guide, mentor and advocate for youth as they progress toward successful transition outcomes in employment. This section focuses on what families can do to help their young adult transition to employment.

Collaboration
Collaboration with programs and agencies that support youth with disabilities enhances the potential for students to be prepared for employment. Collaboration with general education also assists students to participate in programs with a career focus. It is important to research what is available at the local school site regarding career technical education pathways, dual enrollment classes (high school/community college), and career-related student organizations.

WorkAbility I
A California Transition Program

Questions:   Programs and Partnerships Unit | PPL@cde.ca.gov
Last Reviewed: Tuesday, June 25, 2024
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