Illinois Center for Transition and Work

How can educators help students with autism become more flexible when unexpected changes occur during work experiences?

This ICTW case study follows Sam, a young adult with autism, as he learns to navigate schedule changes and workplace uncertainty. Through strategies such as priming, involving students in decision-making, and the "Ask Three Before Me" approach, Sam developed the flexibility needed to succeed in community employment and thrive in his role as a landscape associate.

Read the case study to learn practical strategies that can support students in overcoming barriers to employment.

Case Study: https://tr.ee/I72Zd7

Summer is often a time for youth to unwind, relax, and take a break. Although school doors close in May or June, several rich and varied learning opportunities still exist for students with disabilities during the summer months. In this webinar, Erik Carter, professor of special education at Vanderbilt University, provides practical strategies for connecting youth with significant disabilities to summer employment.

Full webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H66_M1oZmVY&t=12s

Summer jobs can help students build the skills and confidence needed for future careers—but access isn't always easy.

Challenges such as transportation, limited job coaching support, lack of family support, and employer hesitancy can create barriers for students with disabilities seeking summer employment.

Our research brief explores strategies for building community capacity and creating more opportunities for youth to gain meaningful work experience.

Read the research brief here: https://tr.ee/UbJWGz

How can community conversations lead to lasting change?

Join Dr. Erik Carter in Changing the Local Landscape Through Community Conversations to learn:
✔️ How to conduct community conversations
✔️ Tips for successful facilitation
✔️ Ways to use community feedback to drive action
Start building stronger, more connected communities today to assist individuals with severe disabilities reach their employment goals.

Webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u63x-Up6ia8&t=4s
Or find the link in our linktree!

Here are some helpful facts on summer employment that can provide a great starting point for brainstorming ideas for your school-year plan!
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Students with extensive support needs are more likely to have a summer job if they participate in spring work experiences and have teachers who expect them to acquire summer employment.

Learn more in our latest Building Capacity for Summer Employment fact sheet: https://tr.ee/3JgXhi
Or find it in our linktree!

Start your Friday right with these 6 facts on employment and life skills assessments.

Fact Sheet: https://tr.ee/ddgHQK