Introduction to Pre-Employment Transition Services
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) is a short-term career development initiative to help students identify and explore their career interests. In partnership with Jackson, Macon, Swain, and Qualla Boundary Schools, this program supports students aged 14-21 enrolled in educational programs with documented disabilities, such as those with an IEP or 504 Plan.
Pre-ETS primarily aims to prepare students with disabilities for their future, whether it be further education or entering the workforce. The program offers a variety of services tailored to meet these goals, including:
- Job Exploration Counseling: Assisting students in discovering potential career paths that align with their interests and abilities.
- Work-Based Learning Experiences: Providing practical experiences through job samples, job shadows, and worksite tours.
- Counseling on Post-Secondary Opportunities: Guiding students to explore options after high school.
- Training in Social and Independent Living Skills: Equipping students with the necessary skills for everyday living and social interactions.
- Training in Self-Advocacy: Empowering students to advocate for their needs and rights in educational and employment settings.
Looking Ahead: Goals for the 2024-2025 School Year
As we approach the 2024-2025 school year, our team has worked tirelessly to enhance and expand the Pre-ETS curriculum. In close collaboration with our educational partners, we are focused on delivering a more hands-on and impactful learning experience. Our goals for this year include:
- Providing 2-4 Quality Milestones to Each Student: Ensuring every student achieves significant and measurable progress throughout the program.
- Serving Over 85 Students: Expanding our reach to support even more students across the community.
- Reintroducing Job Samples and Worksite Tours: Offering students opportunities to gain real-world experience and insight into various careers.
- Completing 5-10 Six-Hour Job Samples: Giving students the chance to immerse themselves in extended work-based learning experiences.
- Maintaining Longitudinal Data Tracking: Continuing to collect and analyze employment outcome data to assess the long-term impact of our services on students who have graduated.
Strengthening Our Pre-ETS Team
As our Pre-ETS program grows, we are excited to expand our team. We will bring a wealth of experience and dedication to our mission.
Sarah Kearse – Program Manager
Sarah Kearse has over a decade of experience supporting individuals facing barriers to employment. A native of Sylva, Sarah’s deep commitment to our community is evident in her work. Her background as an Employment Specialist at Meridian Behavioral Health has given her the skills and insights to help individuals find meaningful employment as Program Services Manager. Sarah is focused on leading the Pre-ETS program with a clear vision and a commitment to positive outcomes for the students we serve.
Cailey Ryther-Anderson – Pre-ETS Team Lead
Cailey Ryther-Anderson, who has been with us since 2021, now steps into the role of Pre-ETS Team Lead. Cailey’s extensive experience in developing curriculum and working with individuals with disabilities makes her an invaluable asset to our team. Her unique background in Therapeutic Horseback Riding, where she worked with veterans and individuals with a wide range of disabilities, brings a fresh perspective to the Pre-ETS program. Cailey is eager to continue building strong relationships with students and educators, ensuring every student receives the support they need to succeed.
Conclusion
At WestBridge Vocational, we remain dedicated to empowering students with disabilities through our Pre-ETS program. We are excited about the opportunities as we move into the new school year. With the addition of new leadership and a renewed focus on hands-on learning, we are confident that our program will continue to impact the lives of the students we serve significantly.
