School-to-Work

 

What is School-to-Work?

The School-to-Work program provides support to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities with a seamless transition from school to work and into adulthood. Students who are enrolled in Developmental Disabilities Administration services, and in the last year of their school transition program, receive employment services with the goal of employment before they exit school.  

How does School-to-Work work?

  • County Developmental Disabilities programs and Tribes may work with schools and DDA to locate students who are, or may be, eligible for School-to-Work. 
  • Once identified, students work with their team that consists of their vocational counselor, parents/guardians, school staff, employment agency, and others, to identify an employment goal.
  • The student then works with their team to obtain paid employment before they exit school.

This process supports students in getting connected to adult services and to their community to get more support after graduation, as their team changes from school-based to adult service-based.  

What are some benefits of School-to-Work?

  • Providing opportunities to gain employment before graduating and exiting school.
  • Getting students connected early to potentially vital services that may support them into adulthood.
  • Supporting family awareness of available adult services for their loved ones.
  • Empowering students to be active in their future goals and decisions.
  • Establishing a smooth transition between school and adult services as the student moves into life after school.

Student Eligibility for School-to-Work:

  • Enrolled with the Developmental Disabilities Administration.
  • Enrolled with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.
  • In the last year of their school transition program, from age 20 through 22.
  • Live in an area of the state providing School-to-Work.

Find a School-to-Work Program in Your Area

Currently, School-to-Work programs in Washington state are available to residents in the following counties. Contact the County Developmental Disabilities Program for more information about how to participate.

Senate Bill 5790

In 2022, the Washington State Legislature passed Senate Bill 5790 to support School-to-Work across the state.

The legislation includes:

Learn more about activities to support students in transitioning from school into adult services: Transition Services by the DSHS’ DDA | Informing Families

Contact the DVR School-to-Work Team

To contact the School-to-Work Program staff at the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, please email DVRSchooltoWork@dshs.wa.gov.

Additional Information for Tribes and Counties