SC Secondary Transition & Employment Model (SC-TEAM)

2014

High school students with disabilities are less likely than their peers without disabilities to graduate, enroll in higher education, and gain/maintain full employment. Statistics for students with intellectual/developmental disabilities (ID/DD) tend to be even more dismal. Despite over 20 years of research, legislation, and funding, transition and employment outcomes remain relatively static (National Longitudinal Transition Study-2). Further, state data demonstrates a critical need for improvements in coordination and delivery of transition and employment systems in South Carolina. In October of 2012, the Center for Disability Resources (CDR), in conjunction with The Department of Educational Studies at the University of South Carolina (USC), received funding from the South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council to identify and evaluate one SC high school which demonstrates both sound and data-based program structure and implementation as well as successful full employment outcomes for youth and young adults with ID/DD. Specifically, the purpose of the project is to (1) Identify one SC high school that provides high quality transition services, specifically in the area of employment, (2) Evaluate the components that contribute to the effectiveness of the selected HS, and (3) Build capacity in SC to best serve students with ID/DD through providing useful feedback to stakeholders.

Performing Research or Evaluation, Developing & Disseminating Information, Continuing Education/Community Training

Quality Assurance, Education & Early Intervention, Employment-Related Activities

Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Children/Adolescents with Disabilities/SHCN, Legislators/Policy Makers

Racial or Ethnic Minorities, Disadvantaged Circumstances, Limited English, Geographic Areas, Reservation, Rural/Remote

Single-County, State

N/A