Transitional students

Society often carries preconceived notions about what an 18-year-old finishing high school will do next. Some will start college. Others head to a technical school. Still others head straight to full-time employment. But some special-education students find the transition to the next step more difficult.

To address this need the Cape Girardeau and Jackson school districts have updated their transitional programs in recent years for these students. One of the tools both districts use is placing students in a workplace environment where they are responsible for carrying out certain tasks. This work-based training is a practical learning experience for students and also allows them to earn credit toward graduation.

The National Center on Secondary Education and Transition cites studies that show work-based training is an effective tool for students with disabilities. Between improving student graduation rates and better preparing students for employment, these opportunities are making a difference.

Both districts recognize you can't just send students into a workplace environment and expect them to be able to meet the demands without support. To address this need transitional courses have been developed for students to take before beginning the work-based training.

We commend the school districts for their efforts in assisting special-education students. Also, thank you to the employers who play an important roll in this transitional process.