SECTION 612:10-7-240. Overview of transition from school to work services

(a)   Transition services is a coordinated set of activities for a student that promotes movement from the public schools to post-school activities. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Rehabilitation Act use the same language to describe transition services and their purpose. No break in required rehabilitation services will occur for eligible students exiting the secondary school when a case has been opened while in high school. The transition process is outcome based, leading to post-secondary education, vocational training, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, and/or community participation consistent with the informed choice of the individual. The goal of the Transition from School to Work Program is to help eligible individuals with disabilities make the transition from school to work in order to function as a productive member of society.

(b)   The Transition from School to Work Program is implemented through a cooperative agreement between DRS and each participating local secondary school district, private school, charter school, home school organization and Career and Technology Education Center, through an MOU with the State Department of Education. The Transition Coordinator in DRS State Office acts as the liaison with the State Department of Education, and provides statewide coordination and technical assistance for the Transition from School to Work Program.

(c)   Transition services must be based on the individual student's needs, taking into account the student's preferences and interests. Transition planning will include, to the extent needed, services in the areas of:

(1)   instruction;

(2)   community services;

(3)   employment and other post-school adult living objectives, including job skill training available through vocational-technical schools;

(4)   acquisition of daily living skills and a functional vocational evaluation;

(5)   supported employment services can be initiated during the final graduating semester of high school; and

(6)   other needs specific to the individual.

(d)   The Transition from School to Work Program is based upon effective and cooperative working relationships between the Special Education Section of the State Department of Education, the Department of Rehabilitation Services, and the Local Educational Agency. Each agency retains responsibility for providing or purchasing any transition service that the agency would otherwise provide to students with disabilities who meet the eligibility criteria of that agency [34 CFR 300.520].

[Source: Added at 36 Ok Reg 1187, eff 8-11-19]