December 13, 2018 -- Beverly Hills, CA - The BHUSD Student Services Department today announced a new partnership program with the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) to support post-secondary transitions for students with disabilities. The BHUSD School Board of Education approved program called “DOR We Can Work” provides services and advocacy resulting in employment, independent living, and equality for individuals with disabilities, working in collaboration with students, families and schools.
DOR Student Services are available on a statewide basis to all students with disabilities, 504 plans, and IEPs (Individualized Education Programs). Through these services, regional centers, America's Job Center of California, and business partners, the DOR seeks to maximize student success in the transition from high school to higher education, employment, independence, and economic self-sufficiency.
The program consists of pre-employment transition services, provided in accordance with the needs and interests of the student, that fall within the following five categories: job exploration counseling, work-based learning experiences, post-secondary counseling, work readiness training, and self-advocacy training.
All students ages 16 until the end of their final year in BHUSD with a documented disability are eligible to enroll, including all students with an IEP or 504 Plan. After completing an application, the local Department of Rehab counselor meets with the student to go over pre-employment transition services consistent with the needs and interests of the student.
“We are thrilled to partner with the California Department of Rehabilitation to help our students with disabilities to explore employment options, get ready to work and create careers,” said Laura Chism, Assistant Superintendent, Student Services. “This program underscores our commitment to provide services that support student success,” she added.