Transition Information
High Incidence Disabilities
23 January 2023
Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) - January Update
The state currently recommends that all students apply to OVR by the spring of their junior year or two years before graduating, if staying beyond the senior year. 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.
Ms. Webster, our OVR Early Reach Coordinator, will come into PAHS approximately one day per month to provide transition lessons to our students. The lessons will focus on one topic within the three areas of transition, which are post-secondary education, employment, and independent living.
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.
If you would like for your student to participate, 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.
On January 27, 2023, Ms. Webster's presentation will focus on financial aid.
RESOURCES
Chester County 2022 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.
UPCOMING EVENTS
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.
Mental Health & Social Emotional Learning
This training will include information on supporting students with mental health needs as well as tips to incorporate social emotional learning into
Date: January 30, 2023
Time: 12:00-1:00 PM or 6:00-7:00 PM everyday practices.
Location: https://cciu.zoom.us/j/425924529
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
PA Family Network: Snap Shot of Me January 24, 2023
Date: Tuesday, January 24, 2023
Times: 1:00pm - 2:00pm AND 7:00pm- 8:00 pm
Location: Zoom
PA Family Network: Planning for Community Safety January 31, 2023
Make a plan, no matter where you live! Whether you live with family or friends, on your own or, in a Community living arrangement, making a plan is important! Learn the importance of creating a plan for multiple emergencies, including hospitalizations, health emergencies, natural disaster, or accidents. Identify the skills that need to be taught and learned in various living situations. Find out who you need to know to increase the safety of a person living with ID/A
Date: Tuesday, January 31, 2023
Times: 12:00pm - 2:00pm AND 6:30pm- 8:30 pm
Location: Zoom
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