General Instructional Guidelines
Vocational / Employment
Vocational training and employment experiences provide students with the
opportunity to attain the work habits and work skills they need for transition into post-school and adult life.
Intermediate District 287 provides customized resources and
vocational services to meet the unique needs of students.
District 287 makes it possible for students to experience job success
by providing vocational programming designed for individuals who are
14-21 years old with special needs. Initial and ongoing
vocational training takes place at the Vocational Evaluation and
Training Programs. Other community vocational experiences may include a
Career Exploration site, a Supported Employment site, a
Competitive/Semi-Independent Employment position, and/or at a Technical
College.
The goal of the vocational programs is to assess and teach students how
to be productive, employable, and valued members of a working
community. These students also have the opportunity to learn
about themselves in the context of these work environments. The
programming they receive addresses the areas of practical / relevant /
applied academics, vocational skills, employability exploration,
self-advocacy skills, and evaluation. Opportunities to practice and
develop new communication skills, behaviors, and social skills also are
evident in the context of these work environments. Adaptations and
modifications are made to meet all students' needs.
The vocational programming is under the supervision of licensed Work Based Learning Coordinators and provides the following;
- identification of need areas
- assistance for skill development
- implementation of social learning profiles in the context of work
- employment plan development
- evaluations
- IEP Conference reporting
The work-based training experiences are enhanced by the opportunities that target a wide range of learning styles. The Vocational programs offered by District 287 work closely with member district staff to assure generalization of skills between the school and the work site.