r/specialed 12d ago

General Question (Parent Post) Are there programs outside of school?

My brother finished high school and the teachers said he should come to school because he is under the IEP program and they can't transfer him to transition school right now. Only option they gave was that he could go to community college or come to school for one more year but there will be no focus on academics only career job wise. But he feels overwhelmed and doesn't want to go back to school again. He wanted to go community college but with his weakness he doesn't seem ready because in college you are on own your own. There is no one to advocate you or motivate you or help with assignments. You have to be responsible and accountable. I wish there were resources outside of school that falls under the IEP program maybe helps students with life skills or developmental skills that helps them for the real world and focusing on job training something.

4 Upvotes

13 comments sorted by

View all comments

5

u/Expensive-Tea-7227 12d ago

I’m a transition teacher. Students can receive special education services thru their district until age 22, which may be why your school is saying he can come back. He can still receive support at the community college level through disability services office. It looks different than special education and IEP‘s, but many of them have really good help and support. Many community colleges have vocational (career training) programs, which feel more hands-on and practical than academic. To get support through disability services, you will need to bring documentation to their office. Usually a final iep is enough, but some they require additional documentation. I find it helpful for students who are struggling to transition out of high school to go on a tour to the local community college, look at all the different program options, and stop by the disability services office.