Career Services for Special Needs Students

Career Technical/Special Education Service helps students with special needs participate in Compact Career Programs, in order for these students to gain entry-level job skills in their field of interest.  The Coordinator compiles information on student progress, providing feedback to special education teachers, Career Program instructors, guidance counselors and parents.  This service assists with student IEP development.

Occupational Work-Study (OWS) Program is designed to help special needs students develop good work habits and a positive attitude toward employment while still in high school.  The program coordinator works with teachers and other community agencies to provide job coaching and work assessment to help OWS students make the transition to the world of work. 

Option 4 job training coordination program helps Compact students with disabilities obtain and keep competitive employment.  Collaboration with local business partners and adult service support agencies help Option 4 students obtain work experience and appropriate support.  Partners include Kent State University's Cooperative Transition Services Program (CTSP), the Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation and Portage and Summit County Boards of Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities.  

Project SEARCH is a one-year program providing a site-specific job training opportunity based at Summa Health System. In addition to the work and employability skills gained through the participation in both programs, students also focus on attaining a Career Passport, networking with adult service agencies and transition planning for post-secondary opportunities and support.