In the first quarter of 2018, Summit DD partnered with six community organizations to sponsor a Parent Transition Academy. Hosted by the Summit Educational Service Center, this educational series was designed specifically for parents and guardians of middle and high school students with disabilities. The Parent Transition Academy was comprised of a monthly session from January through April and featured informational topics such as:
• Transition Law – Legislation for Life after High School
• Evidence-Based Predictors and Practices for Transition
• Transition Pathways, Partners and Planning
• Developing a Quality IEP for Transition
• Financial Planning and Legal Topics for Transition
• Planning for Transitions in Health Care and Mental Health Services
• Transition Panel with Parents and Professionals
• Building Self-Determination and Self-Advocacy Skills
“This was a great opportunity for parents to interact with and learn from several local agencies that serve transition youth. Summit DD and the other agencies involved really want to help parents and teens succeed while confidently navigating the path to graduation and adulthood,” shared Jacquie Owens, Summit DD Community Supports and Development Manager.
The sessions were a big success, averaging close to 50 participants. Summit DD would like to thank the Summit Educational Service Center for hosting the event, as well as the other partner organizations, including State Support Team 8, Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Akron Children’s Hospital, the Educational Service Center of Medina County, and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities.
Plans are in the works for another Parent Transition Academy later in 2018 or early 2019, so be on the lookout for additional information on our events page. Plus, learn more about Summit DD’s other transitional youth partnerships at Copley and Woodridge High Schools, as well as our summer employment program.
