Information About the Transition from the Education System
The Tolland Transition Academy is affiliated with Tolland High School and its mission is to provide the highest quality transition support services to students (ages 18-21) with a variety of disabilities. It focuses on developing each student’s skills, understanding of preferences, interests, self-determination, and advocacy necessary for the successful achievement of individual post-secondary goals. Its curriculum topics include: jobs and job training, recreation and leisure, post-secondary education, community participation, daily living skills, and self-advocacy.
Level Up is through the Connecticut State Department of Aging and Disability Services and provides students aged 16-21 who have an Individualized Education Plan, 504 Plan, or related challenges with the tools, training and resources to work competitively and forge a path to independence. Level Up’s services include: vocational counseling, hands-on work experience, assistive technology services, school-to-work services, benefits counseling, and access to additional resources.
The Connecticut State Department of Education’s Secondary Transition—Planning from School to Adult Life page has information on transition services requirements, as well as flow charts explaining the secondary transition planning process.
The United States Department of Education’s Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services issued A Transition Guide to Postsecondary Education and Employment Opportunities for Students and Youth with Disabilities. The 60-page guide discusses the transition planning process, transition services, education and employment options after leaving secondary school, and preparation for adult life.
The Vocational Rehabilitation Program at the Bureau of Education and Services for the Blind (BESB) is a proud partner of the American Job Center Network and provides school-to-work transition services to blind or visually impaired youth and assists adults to obtain, retain and advance in employment. The Program also provides technical assistance and job candidate referral services to employers across the state. You can reach the Program by phone at 860-424-5055; Toll-Free: 800-537-2549.