1. A Division of the State Board of Education Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Transition Summary – How to Involve Families

4. Why is it important? If Parents don’t see the value in services then students most likely will not obtain services For students under 18 years old Parental and/or Guardian Permission and Approval is needed before we can access the information needed to provide services

5. Why is it important? Most students will have a significant adjustment when they transition into adult expectations vs. high school It’s important that VRC’s develop a rapport with students. Referring students at age 16 gives them time to create a comprehensive transition plan. The earlier they start in High School the more successful we are at keeping them in a program.

6. Busy...Busy Your help is needed in order for IDVR to be successful We know that IDVR is just a piece of the puzzle for your students We can help with some of your requirements and increase post school outcomes! You are the most influential to students and their families

7. How can you help? Understand the VR process and ask questions if clarification is needed Please don’t assume... Contact one of our counselors with any concerns about working with VR You are the most important influence to students’ families!

8. How can you help? Stress the value of IDVR to parents of your students Invite VRC’s to parent teacher conference to meet parents When talking with parents, use examples of how IDVR has helped other students Inform parents of when the VRC will be at the school

9. How can you help? Make IDVR a part of your team. The more Students that see a VRC as a team member, the better Invite VRC’s to parent teacher conferences to meet parents Invite VRC’s to participate in college night and other Transition related events your school hosts

10. How can you help? Maintain communication with VRC Follow up with students & parents to see if they have Pursued IDVR services Invite VRC’s to an occasional staff meeting

11. Benefits to Students  Students has continuation of VR services from High School to post High School  IDVR has better understanding of student’s individual needs  Student has better understanding of VR role and will continue to contact us with questions  Student will see IDVR as a resource  Student has a clear direction/plan

12. Important to Note...  Parents talking to a VRC can ask questions or get clarification with no obligation  Refer students with disabilities to IDVR Don’t feel like you have to determine if the meet eligibility criteria. That’s our job.  IDVR information is confidential  If the student agrees, Parents can continue to be engages with their case after the age of 18.  VRC’s have flexibility in meeting times with families  Each school district is different... Find creative ways to work with the VR Counselor to become a part of your team

13. Other VR Participation with Transition Youth  IEP Meetings  Youth Leadership Forum  Tools for Life Conference  College Fairs, College Nights at school  Young Adult Transition Fair  Disability Mentoring Day

14. Who is your VR Contact?  If you don know, we will find out for you: Leave us your contact information and we will get that information back to you

15. Questions ? ? ?