32 Miss. Code. R. 10-9-9.2

Current through December 10, 2024

Section 32-10-9-9.2 - Pre-Employment Transition SERVICES (PRE-ETS)

OVR/OVRB, in collaboration with the LEAs involved, must provide, or arrange for the provision of, Pre-ETS for all students with disabilities who are in need of such services. Pre-ETS must be made available statewide to all students with disabilities, regardless of whether the student has applied or been determined eligible for VR services. ⁸⁰

PE students may receive Pre-ETS in a group or generalized classroom setting only, whereas VR eligible students may receive these services in a group or an individualized setting.

In addition, MDRS is required to reserve not less than fifteen (15) percent of its federal allotment, as well as, any funds made available from state, local, or private funding sources for the provision of Pre-ETS. Funds reserved and made available may be used for the required, authorized, and pre-employment transition coordination activities only. Administrative costs and/or any other costs associated with the provision of such services shall not be paid with reserved funds. ^{81, 82, 83}

Required Pre-ETS

The five (5) mandated Pre-ETS activities that are required to be provided as needed are: ⁸⁴

1.Job Exploration Counseling is designed to assist students in exploring career options, develop motivation for employment, and understand the role of high school and postsecondary education and/or training.

2.Work-Based Learning Experiences use the workplace or realistic work situations to provide students with the knowledge and skills for future career opportunities. These experiences may be provided in school or after school or experiences outside the traditional school setting (including internships) that are provided in an integrated environment to the maximum extent possible.

3.Counseling Opportunities for Enrollment in Comprehensive Transition or Postsecondary Education Programs are used to explore the type of occupational training and postsecondary opportunities needed to succeed in the workplace.

4.Workplace Readiness Training is designed to develop social skills, independent living skills, and behaviors necessary for employment.

5.Instruction in Self-Advocacy supports a student's ability to effectively communicate, negotiate, and/or assert their own interest and/or desires, including the development of the skills necessary for selfdetermination. It may include peer mentoring.

Authorized Pre-ETS⁸⁵

Funds remaining after all the necessary required Pre-ETS activities have been provided may be used to improve the transition of students with disabilities from school to postsecondary education or an employment outcome by:

* implementing effective strategies that increase independent living and inclusion in their communities and competitive integrated work environment;

* developing and improving strategies for individuals with intellectual and significant disabilities to live independently, participate in postsecondary education experiences, and obtain and retain CIE;

* providing training to VR counselors, school transition staff, and others supporting students with disabilities;

* disseminating information on innovative, effective, and efficient approaches to implement Pre-ETS;

* coordinating activities with transition services provided by LEAs under IDEA;

* applying evidence-based findings to improve policy, procedure, practice, and the preparation of personnel;

* developing model transition demonstration projects;

* establishing or supporting multistate or regional partnerships that involve states, LEAs, MDRS, developmental disability agencies, private businesses, or others; and

* disseminating information and strategies to improve the transition to postsecondary activities of those who are traditionally unserved.

Pre-ETS Coordination Activities⁸⁶

Funds reserved for Pre-ETS may also be used for four (4) coordination activities that consist of:

1. attending Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings for students with disabilities (when invited);

2. working with local workforce development boards, one-stop centers, and employers to develop work opportunities for students with disabilities;

3. working with schools to coordinate and ensure the provision of PreETS; and

4. attending person-centered planning meetings for students receiving services under title XIX of the Social Security Act (when invited).

32 Miss. Code. R. 10-9-9.2

Adopted 8/1/2022