Identify a representative from chosen postsecondary option to attend IEP meetings, if possible. Approximate Age: Year before entry to postsecondary program | Who can help: Individual, Family, School/IEP Team
Become familiar with parental rights regarding the young person’s educational records, as outlined in the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Approximate Age: Year before entry to postsecondary program | Who can help: Family Resources: Parent rights handbook
Attend open houses, college fairs, virtual or in-person tours of postsecondary options. Approximate Age: Start at 14 and ongoing | Who can help: Individual, Family, School/IEP Team Resources: NC virtual college fair
Attend open houses, college fairs, virtual or in-person tours of postsecondary options. Read More »
Review how high school course of study could impact the student’s postsecondary options (i.e., certificate versus diploma pathway). Approximate Age: 13 (Middle School) and ongoing | Who can help: School/IEP Team Resources: HS graduation requirements
Approximate Age: Start in middle school and ongoing | Who can help: Individual, Family, School/IEP Team Resources: What’s next college guideNC postsecondary education programs
Review how course of study pathways can support the student’s employment options (i.e., certificate versus, occupational course of study and future ready diploma pathway). Approximate Age: 13 (Middle School) and ongoing | Who can help: School/IEP Team Resources: HS graduation requirements
Begin exploration of personal learning styles and necessary accommodations/supports to be successful in a work setting. Approximate Age: As early as possible & ongoing | Who can help: Individual, School/IEP Team Resources: Job Accommodation Network
Learn about workplace rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act . Refer to the Self Advocacy action plan to further develop self advocacy skills. Approximate Age: Start at 14 and ongoing | Who can help: Individual, School/IEP Team, EIPD Resources: Self advocacy action plan Learn about my rights
Consider taking community-based classes to expand hard and soft skills and explore interests (i.e., Adult Basic Ed programs at community colleges, programs at Parks & Rec or local library, toastmasters, webinars). Approximate Age: As early as possible & ongoing | Who can help: Individual, Family Resources: Soft skills curriculum Apprenticeships NCAdult Basic Education | CareerOneStop
SConsider higher education options (i.e., community college, University, trade school, certificate programs). Approximate Age: Start at 14 and ongoing (i.e., community college, University, trade school, adult basic education programs) | Who can help: Individual, Family, School/IEP Team Resources: What’s Next: College?! guide NC postsecondary education programsWhat opportunities are available after high school: Postsecondary Education – Work Together NC
