Transition Information
High Incidence Disabilities
28 February 2023
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) - January and February Updates
If your student is junior or a graduating senior, you should have already applied for OVR; however, it's not too late. To apply, visit the PA Career Link website, create a log in, and look for the OVR button. The PA Career Link site can also be used to research a variety of occupations.
As you may have seen on district and high school social media pages, the January presentation on financial aid for post-secondary education was well received by the students. Many students were unaware of the costs associated with post-secondary education and training. In addition, a number of students were stunned by how long it could take to pay back a student loan.
Our February 28th session focused on obtaining photo identification, as well as important records to keep as the students move into the independency of adulthood. The document shared with students is below.
If you would like for your student to participate in OVR sessions, and have not yet done so, please, fill out the Parent Input Form. You will also need to submit the release for your student to participate. Families often ask, "Is this appropriate for my child?" The answer is a resounding, "YES!" Once your student graduates, it will be their responsibility to self-advocate at work, in daily life, and at post-secondary education. The OVR presentations provide them background information and foundational skills to be their own advocate.
PA ABLE
The Pennsylvania ABLE Savings Program (PA ABLE) is a low-cost, tax-free way for eligible individuals with qualified disabilities, and their families and friends, to save for disability-related expenses while maintaining government benefits.
Visit https://www.paable.gov/outreach/resource/ for more information; including brochures, outreach materials, and links to upcoming and on-demands webinars.
UPCOMING EVENTS
The Arc of Chester County
The Arc of Chester County is pleased to offer their Spring 2023 Chat-n--Chew Speak Series. These sessions are FREE and open to everyone.
Sessions are held each Wednesday from 11:30am to 1:00pm, now through May 10, 2023.
Upcoming trainings include:
- March 1st: Estate Planning
- March 8th: Empower U Specialty Fitness
Click here for a full list of offerings and to register.
Community Trainings
Please join us for 2 FREE evening events discussing topics in special education for families. Come learn with us about understanding the IEP process, mental health and social emotional learning, and strategies to support the whole child. Details and registration available in the file below.
Strategies to Support the Whole Child
This training will provide a multitude of strategies to support children outside of the educational setting in areas such as academics, behavior, communication, and more.
Date: Monday April 24, 2023
Time: 12:00-1:00 PM or 6:00-7:00 PM
Location: https://cciu.zoom.us/j/4259245299
Self Advocacy Power Network for All
Join the Self Advocacy Power Network for All for upcoming February events!
10th @ 11am - 12:30pm Let’s Speak Up About Life in the Community
13th @ 10am - 12pm Let’s Talk About Your Vision For YOUR Everyday Life
17th @11:30am - 12:30pm Power Talk with ODP!
12 - 2pmAll About Jobs!
24th @ 1-3pmLet’s Speak Up!
See the flyer below for more information!
Self-Advocacy Power Network for All is managed by Self Advocates United as 1(SAU1). SAU1’s mission is to support the self-advocacy of people with disabilities for positive impact in our communities and in people’s lives. SAU1 is a PA non-profit led and staffed by people with disabilities, for people with disabilities.
PA Family Network
Upcoming PAFN Events:
- Tuesday, February 28 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm - Advanced Waiver, Part 2
- Wednesday, March 1 @ 10:00 am - 12:30 pm - Peace of Mind, Long Term Planning
- Thursday, March 2 @ 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm - Lead the Way to Healthy Relationships
RESOURCES
Chester County 2022-2023 Resource Guide
Check out this guide to resources in Chester County for families of and individuals with disabilities.
Chester County Transition to Post-Secondary Website
Secondary transition is the process of preparing students for life after they leave high school, including participation in post-secondary education or training, employment, and community living. These areas are the driving force behind Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) written for students aged 14-21. The planning process is a collaborative effort between the student, family/caregiver, school team, and agency partners. Services include Indicator 13 training and monitoring support, resource development, and best practices in transition planning.
High Incidence Transition Coordinator
Michelle Rusanovschi
I currently hold teaching certifications in the areas of Special Education, Secondary English, Reading Specialist, Middle School Mathematics, Middle School English, Elementary, and Early Childhood Education. In addition, I hold an administrative certificate as a Supervisor of Special Education.
I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Education from Temple University and my Master's of Education in the area of Reading from West Chester University. I have also earned certifications through Penn State.
At the high school, I predominantly teach reading courses, such as Read 180, Wilson, and SRA Corrective Reading. I also serve as one of the special education Transition Counselors.
Teaching is who I am. I could not see myself doing anything else. Each day I do my best to work with students and parents to help the student be successful. I believe that communication between the student, teachers, and parents is essential to a student's success.
Email: rusanovschim@pasd.com
Website: https://www.pasd.com/academics/special_education/transition_to_postsecondary
Location: 120 Gay Street, Phoenixville, PA, USA
Phone: 484-927-5075