Pre-Employment Transition Services

Transition Program Overview.

Program Overview

The Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) provide services to students aged 14 and older to assist with the successful transition from high school to postsecondary education or employment. The student works with a team which may include a BSBP Rehabilitation Professional, the student's family or guardian, teacher consultant, social worker, Special Education Director, and others to prepare an annual Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP includes the student's educational programs, performance level, goals, and services needed for the student to be successful in school. During the student's IEP meeting, the school may refer Potentially Eligible students with a disability to BSBP for Pre-Employment Transition Services, at which time, an application for services can be completed. Rehabilitation Professionals are available at this time to answer questions regarding the availability of Pre-Employment Transition Services and answer questions.

Upon enrollment, students with a disability will be able to access Pre-ETS aligned with their IEP's, transition goals, and services.

To learn more about Individualized Education Program's (IEP) watch the video:
Maximizing the School Experience: How Families Understand and Navigate Special Education
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Learn More About BSBP Programs

Upcoming Programs

BSBP holds programs for Pre-ETS students throughout the year in a variety of cities in the State of Michigan. Programs may be targeted for a certain age group, for students with particular interests and skillsets, or with a focus on developing specific skills.

Check back often to see what programs are being offered.

Click here to visit the Program calendar

Topic Links

I am a Student

This information is intended for students aged 14-26 who are visually impaired to learn about BSBP Pre-ETS, access upcoming programs, and gather resources.

I am a Family Member

This information is intended for families of students with visual impairments to learn about the benefit of BSBP Pre-ETS services, review upcoming student and family programs, and gather resources to support your student.

I am a Teacher Consultant or other Educator

This information is intended for Teacher Consultants of the Visually Impaired (TCVI) and other educational service providers who intend to refer students with a disability to BSBP to access services.

Family Programs and Resources

Transition Monthly Family Newsletter

BSBP staff asked parents, students and school staff how we can build stronger partnerships and improve our ability to boost student success and the feedback has been amazing. This monthly newsletter is a response to the feedback and one of a few new initiatives we are trying out!

Information and Videos

If you are looking for material or resources to download or program videos to view.

Family Quotes

"I didn't want to let her go, but now SHE leads the way" - Parent

"It's so important to have the families here (Great Wolf Lodge) this weekend. Keep the parents involved" - Parent

"Sean's session made me realize that I need to let my student be his own advocate instead of letting me be his voice" - Father of BSBP Student

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre ETS)?

Pre-ETS are a set of services and programs aimed at helping students with disabilities, ages 14-26, prepare for successful employment and/or post-secondary education. These services are offered by BSBP, local education agencies and community partners to enhance and ease students transition into the workforce and/or post-secondary education.
How do I access Pre-ETS for my child or as a student?

Contact your local BSBP office or school’s special education department to inquire about the availability of Pre-ETS services and programs in your area.
What is transition planning, and why is it important for students who are blind or visually impaired?
Transition planning is a comprehensive and individualized process designed to help students, including those who are blind or visually impaired, successfully move from the educational environment to adult life, including post-secondary education, employment, independent living, and community participation. This planning typically begins during a student's middle or high school years and continues into early adulthood.

Transition planning is important for students who are blind or visually impaired for several reasons:

Addressing Unique Needs: Blind or visually impaired students often have specific needs related to mobility, accessibility, assistive technology, and alternative learning methods. Transition planning helps identify and address these unique needs to ensure a successful transition.

Building Skills: Transition planning focuses on developing essential life skills such as orientation and mobility, communication, self-advocacy, and daily living skills, which are crucial for independent living and employment.

Identifying Goals and Interests: It allows students to explore their interests, strengths, and career goals, helping them make informed decisions about their future.

Access to Resources: Transition planning connects students and their families with resources, support services, and specialized training to enhance educational and employment opportunities.

Legal Requirements: In many countries, including the United States, legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that transition services must be part of the individualized education plan (IEP) for students with disabilities, including those who are blind or visually impaired.

Promoting Self-Advocacy: Transition planning encourages students to become self-advocates, to learn to communicate their needs and preferences, and to be actively involved in decisions about their education, career, and future.

Reducing Barriers: It aims to reduce barriers to education, employment, and independent living, ensuring that students who are blind or visually impaired have equal access to opportunities.

Fostering Independence: Transition planning empowers students to develop the skills and confidence needed to live independently and participate fully in their communities.

Enhancing Employability: It helps students explore career options, develop job-related skills, and access vocational training and work experiences that can lead to successful employment outcomes.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition: Ultimately, transition planning is vital to ensure that students who are blind or visually impaired can smoothly transition into adulthood, minimizing disruptions and challenges as they move from the school environment to the wider world.

In summary, transition planning is a critical process that supports students who are blind or visually impaired in their journey to adulthood by providing the necessary tools, resources, and skills to succeed in education, employment, and independent living. It aims to break down barriers, promote independence, and enable these students to achieve their goals and aspirations.

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Transition/Pre-Employment Transition Services