SPECIAL ED SPEAKS

Depending on the student, and his/her disability, working and/or employment  is an option. The terms work and employment are sometimes used interchangeably, but when talking about adults with disabilities, they can mean different things. Let’s explore what those options!

Work refers to any productive activity that a person does. It does not always involve pay. Some examples of work opportunities are volunteering at a community center, helping at a church, library, or food bank, doing chores at home or in a supported living program, participating in a work activity program for skill-building, and more.

In short: Work is about being engaged in meaningful activity, even if it doesn’t result in a paycheck.

Refers specifically to paid work in the labor market. The person is hired by an employer, earns wages, and may receive benefits. Employment can take different forms:

Competitive employment for students with disabilities means having a real job in the community where the student works alongside people with/without disabilities. They get paid at least minimum wage (or more) and earns wages and benefits equal to those of coworkers doing the same type of work. They also have the same expectations and opportunities for advancement as others in the job.

In short: Competitive employment is about students with disabilities working in the same jobs, for the same pay, with the same opportunities as everyone else.

Supported employment for students with disabilities is a type of paid work in the community where the student has access to ongoing supports and services to help them succeed on the job. These supports and services include help tailored to their needs, such as a job coach who provides training, feedback, and on-the-job support. Accommodations like assistive technology, modified tasks, or flexible schedules, and ongoing check-ins from vocational rehabilitation or support staff. The focus is on independence, where over time, supports are reduced as the student learns skills, but they remain available as long as needed.

In short: Supported employment means students with disabilities are working in real, paid jobs with the right supports in place to help them be successful.

Customized employment is a type of individualized, paid work designed around a student with a disability’s strengths, needs, and interests, while also meeting the needs of an employer. Instead of expecting the student to fit into a pre-set job, the job is “customized” or negotiated so it works well for both the employee and the employer. An example is a student who is detail-oriented but struggles with social interaction works in a retail store focusing only on stocking and organizing, while coworkers handle customer service.

In short: Customized employment is about tailoring a job to match what a student with disabilities does best, while still meeting an employer’s needs.

Running a small business or freelance work. Self-employment for students with disabilities means that instead of working for someone else, the student creates their own job or small business based on their skills, interests, and strengths. They become their own boss and earn income by selling products or services.

In short: Self-employment allows students with disabilities to earn income by creating their own small business or service that matches their talents and interests.

Internships and work-based learning for students with disabilities are hands-on opportunities that give students real-world experience in the workplace while they are still in school. These experiences help them explore careers, build skills, and prepare for employment after graduation.

Transition is a process! It takes a lot of work and a lot of time! Transitioning to adulthood isn’t always easy, but with the right support and resources, your child can move through this important time with confidence. The key is to start early, being proactive gives your child a better chance to access the services and support that truly fit their needs. Every young person is different, and their transition plan should reflect their unique goals and strengths. As a parent, your steady support and encouragement make a huge difference. While professionals and service providers may come and go, your presence and advocacy will always be a constant in your child’s life.