Vocational rehabilitation
Last updated
Vocational rehabilitation is a state and federal program that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find and keep jobs.
Topic: Transition and adult life
In plain terms
Each state has a VR agency, funded largely through the Rehabilitation Act. VR can provide career counseling, job training, help with college or training costs, assistive technology for work and job placement. Students with disabilities can apply before leaving school, and eligibility for adult VR services is separate from IEP eligibility.
How it shows up in an IEP
With parent or adult student consent, the school can invite a VR counselor to transition IEP meetings. Linking students to VR before graduation reduces gaps in support.
Example
During junior year, a student applies for VR services with help from the case manager, and the VR counselor attends the IEP meeting to plan a summer work experience.
The rule
Federal reference: 34 CFR §300.321(b)(3), 29 U.S.C. §720.
Rules vary by state. Check your state's regulations and your district's procedures.
Related terms
- Pre-employment transition servicesPre-employment transition services are early career services, offered through vocational rehabilitation, for students with disabilities still in school.
- Transition servicesTransition services are coordinated activities in the IEP that help a student move from school to adult life: further education, work and independent living.
- Supported employmentSupported employment is paid work in a typical workplace, with ongoing support such as a job coach, for people with significant disabilities.
- Job coachA job coach is a person who teaches a worker with a disability the tasks and routines of a job on site, then gradually reduces support.
- Summary of performanceA summary of performance is a document given to a student who graduates or ages out, describing skills and recommendations for reaching adult goals.
On IEP Atlas
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