Career Development Checklist for Students with Disabilities

Overview of Transition Planning

• Purpose: Guidelines for supporting students with disabilities as they transition to adulthood, focusing on satisfying careers and postsecondary education.

• Key Reference: Adapted from the book Your Complete Guide to Transition Planning and Services by Mary E. Morningstar, Ph.D., and Beth Clavenna-Deane, Ph.D. (also referred to as Elizabeth Clavenna-Deane).

9th Grade: Exploration and Planning

• Enroll in career preparation courses to learn about various industries and training requirements.

• Establish a career plan and complete interest and working conditions inventories.

• Attend field trips to local businesses and participate in mentorship programs.

• Consult with a case manager to create measurable postsecondary employment goals.

10th Grade: Exposure and Social Skills

• Engage in career explorations and update assessments.

• Apply for and complete job shadowing opportunities.

• Enroll in social skills classes focused on job site interaction.

• Attend college and career fairs and observe vocational courses for potential junior year enrollment.

• Review and update employment goals with a case manager.

11th Grade: Practical Work Experience

• Participate in work experience classes involving rotations through different businesses and jobs.

• Engage in mock interviews and vocational/technical coursework.

• Investigate dual enrollment at community colleges or technical schools.

• Pursue part-time or summer employment to refine career goals and interests.

12th Grade: Transition and Final Preparation

• Narrow focus of career goals based on previous work experiences.

• Finalize career plans and apply to postsecondary programs (community college, 4-year programs, or vocational schools) suited to strengths and needs.

• Collaborate with a case manager to identify specific job accommodations.

• Develop a Summary of Performance to document necessary accommodations for future employers or institutions.