Employment
Youth and young adult employees bring energy, talent, and creativity to our community world of work.
Education and training are keys to successful employment. Youth may need individualized supports to improve employability skills and smooth the transition into employment. This may look differently for each individual - we encourage you to discuss goals, barriers, and necessary supports as an IEP team.
Components of Pre-Employment Transition Services
1. Job Exploration Counseling Services
Support for the student to learn about a variety of career options to make informed choices about current and future employment.
2. Work-Based Learning Experiences
Provide opportunities for the student to gain hands-on experience to identify strengths and interests, and develop skills for employment.
3. Post Secondary and Higher Education Related Services
Assist the student to achieve academic goals during high school and explore various types of college and job training programs.
4. Work Readiness HOME
Social and Independent Living Skills Services for Home – Support the student to build skills for increased independence at home.
5. Work Readiness COMMUNITY
Social and Independent Living Skills Services for Community – Support the student to build skills for increased independence in the community.
6. Instruction in Self Advocacy
Provide information, guidance, and experiences for the student to gain self-knowledge and skills to appropriately express needs and opinions.
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) happen while a student is in high school and are outlined in the Post-Secondary Transition Plan (PTP) as a part of the Invidividualized Education Plan (IEP). There are 6 basic components to the Transition Services/Pre-ETS, as outlined by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA law).
These services can happen in partnership with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and for students between the ages of 18-21, the Long Term Care System.
One key area of Job Readiness is Soft Skills. Soft skills includes how well you get along with others, dressing appropriately for being on the job, being ready and willing to take direction from others, etc.
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act
The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) was signed into law in July 2014 to replace the portion of the Rehabilitation Act formerly called the Workforce Investment Act (WIA). Components of the WIOA specific to educational services went into effect on July 22, 2016. The WIOA includes new responsibilities for schools, in partnership with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and adult services, to support students and youth with disabilities to transition from school to college and/or competitive integrated employment. Learn more about WOIA
Vocational Readiness Opportunities
Students at WUHS have different vocational opportunities to prepare them for careers. Below are some opportunities to explore. If you are curious about other potential opportunities, we encourage you to meet with your student’s counselor and IEP team.
An apprenticeship program is an opportunity to receive on-the-job training and related instruction. Check out the links below to get more information. Have questions? Please reach out to your student’s school counselor or Youth Apprenticeship Coordinator.
Youth Apprenticeship WI (Contact Amy Meyer in Student Services ameyer@wuhs.us)
