🌟 Preparing for Life After High School🌟
What Students Can Do Now
✅ Know Yourself
Why this matters
Understanding your strengths and needs helps you choose the right path.
What students can do
Learn what your disability means for learning and work
Practice explaining your strengths and challenges
Know what supports help you succeed
Set personal goals for after graduation
💬 Student Tip:
“Be able to tell someone what you’re good at and what helps you do your best.”
✅ Build Job Skills
Why this matters
Employers look for more than grades.
Skills to practice
Being on time
Following directions
Staying on task
Working with others
Asking for help when needed
Using appropriate language
💬 Student Tip:
“How you act at school shows how you’ll act at work.”
✅ Practice Self-Advocacy
Why this matters
No one knows your needs better than you.
What students can do
Participate in your IEP meetings
Ask questions when you don’t understand
Practice emailing teachers
Explain what helps you learn
💬 Student Tip:
“Your voice matters — use it.”
✅ Explore Careers
Why this matters
You can’t plan for the future if you don’t know your options.
What students can do
Take career interest surveys
Job shadow or volunteer
Talk to adults about their jobs
Try different classes (CTAE, pathways, electives)
Research salaries and training requirements
💬 Student Tip:
“Try new things — it’s okay not to have it all figured out yet.”
✅ Learn Independent Living Skills
Why this matters
Adult life requires everyday skills.
Skills to build
Managing money
Scheduling appointments
Cooking simple meals
Personal hygiene and self-care
Time management
💬 Student Tip:
“Start practicing now so adult life feels easier later.”
✅ Plan Your Next Step
Options to explain clearly
College or technical school
Job training programs
Military
Supported employment
Apprenticeships
💬 Student Tip:
“There are many paths to success — choose what fits you.”
🎓 How Your Case Manager Helps You Prepare for Graduation
Your case manager is one of the most important people on your team. They are there to help you plan for life after high school and make sure you have the support you need to succeed.
Your case manager can help you:
Understand graduation requirements and track your credits
Plan your next steps (college, job training, military, or employment)
Set transition goals that match your interests and strengths
Connect you with resources like vocational rehabilitation, job programs, and college supports
Teach self-advocacy skills, so you can speak up for your needs
Help you learn about accommodations in college and the workplace
Support you during challenges and help problem-solve barriers to success