DARS’ Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) help students with disabilities learn more about employment opportunities and develop valuable work skills.
Pre-ETS are a collaborative effort between schools, students, families, and DARS.
Who meets the definition?
Students…
- Aged 14-22 with a disability
- Enrolled in a recognized education program.
- Documented disability from an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), 504 plan, or medical provider
- Do NOT have to be a vocational rehabilitation client
- A formal application is NOT required
Getting Started
or
- Ask your student’s Individualized Education Plan team for more information or
- Call or visit your local Division of Rehabilitative Services office
Benefits to Students
Why enroll in Pre-ETS? Students gain…
- Valuable knowledge and skills to help with a smooth transition into adulthood and employment
- An entryway into the more focused and employment-driven VR Program
- Access to the PERT program at Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center (WWRC)
- An early connection with DARS to understand what resources are available
- Open communication between all of those involved in the student’s success
- Helpful information that can be used to inform the student’s Individualized Education Plan
What are Pre-ETS?
Pre-Employment Transition Services fall into five categories, and students may participate in some, or all, of the activities as needed.
Helps students understand their interests and strengths and identify potential career paths. Examples include:
- Assessments to determine vocational interests
- Assistance interpreting assessment results
- Guided research on labor market trends
- The opportunity to hear employers speak about careers in their industry
Provides opportunities to spend time in workplaces developing relevant professional skills. Examples include:
- Internships
- Job Shadowing
- Informational Interviews
- Volunteering
- Mentorship
Outlines available training and education options that are available after graduation. Examples include:
- College fairs
- Information about career and technical programs
- Education on available funding and financial aid
Teaches important life skills, sometimes called “soft skills,” that are needed in the workplace including problem solving, decision making, and social skills. Examples include:
- Assistance with resume writing
- Strategy for job searches
- How to dress professionally
- How to understand pay stubs and money management
- Navigating benefits from the Social Security Administration
Builds communication skills so that the student can advocate for their wants, needs, and best interests. This helps ensure they are an active participant in planning for their future. Examples include:
- Teaching students how to ask for accommodations
- Allowing students to lead their planning meetings
- Encouraging students to take on leadership roles in student organizations
- Helping students understand their learning style
I would encourage every parent that has a child who’s going through any disability to take a chance and join this program because it has changed my son’s life.
This program is managed by the Division of Rehabilitative Services.