Paid work during high school serves as the greatest predictor of postsecondary employment for youth with significant disabilities. Yet, few high school students with extensive support needs are provided with opportunities to experience such work. In this webinar, we will share findings from a recent study identifying facilitators that promote paid work for youth with significant disabilities from the perspectives of special educators, adult agency providers, school district leaders, family members of youth with disabilities, and employers. Identified facilitators span the areas of collaboration, training and information, attitudes and mindsets, supports for youth, providing work-related experiences, knowledge and skill instruction, staffing, individualization, and transportation. Specifically, we will highlight key implications for practitioners looking to facilitate experiences for youth with significant disabilities.

Presenter(s): Michele Schutz
Email(s): maschutz@illinois.edu