My initial thoughts are that the School Librarian can be an invaluable resource to IEP coordinators writing these plans. Librarians are also wonderful resources for integrating programming that supports students ability to thrive after school. Here are several examples.
- Provide access to databases that list local company profiles that a student might be interested in working at.
- Create a list of local/state/national resources for job training and job placement.
- Utilize connections to local businesses and/or universities to host a career & college fair and take students on tours of these places.
- Provide IEP coordinator with information on student strengths as they relate to skills learned and practiced in the library.
- Provide students with a volunteer and/or work opportunity in the library.
- Take students on tours of local public libraries and other public service offices.
This concept certainly deserves more attention. All School Librarians should consider assisting teachers in developing transitional programming. What resources do you use in helping students prepare for the future?
NY Special Education Transition Requirements and Guidelines: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/specialed/transition/randg.htm
School Librarians and Special Education: http://www.ala.org/ala/mgrps/divs/aasl/aaslpubsandjournals/knowledgequest/kqwebarchives/v36/364/364joneszambone.cfm
