Information for Educators

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) are provided in collaboration with local educational agencies and community partners. Pre-ETS are designed to be an early start at job exploration and will assist students with identifying career interests to be further explored through additional VR services. Pre-ETS must be made available to all students in need of such services on a statewide basis regardless of whether a student has applied for VR services. Pre-ETS services may begin once a student requests or is recommended for one or more service and documentation of a disability is provided. These services can be provided in a group setting or on an individual basis.

Frequently Asked Questions for Educators

Who is eligible for Pre-ETS?
BSBP will provide Pre-Employment Transition Services to students who meet the following criteria:

Vocational Rehabilitation Customer who is in application, eligibility or IPE status or Potentially Eligible (Prior to VR application)

14-26 years of age

Student with a visual impairment

Currently enrolled in secondary, post-secondary or other recognized education program

A student does not have to apply for VR services with BSBP to receive Pre-Employment Transition Services.

pdf pdf Pre-ETS Verification of Educational Status Form
What are the five Pre-ETS categories?
The 5 Categories of Pre-ETS are:

Job Exploration Counseling: Intended to provide counseling and guidance to help students explore career options. Career counseling can be offered in a variety of settings including groups and individually, in person or by means of digital communication. Job exploration options are intended to foster motivation, consideration of opportunities and informed decision-making.

Work-based Learning Experiences: May include in-school or after-school opportunities, or experiences outside the traditional school setting (including internships), provided in an integrated environment in the community to the maximum extent possible. Work-based learning is an educational approach that uses the workplace or real work to provide students with the knowledge and skills that will help them connect school experiences to real-life work activities and future career opportunities.

Counseling on opportunities for enrollment in comprehensive transition or postsecondary educational programs: This activity area includes exploration of both post-high school transition programs at institutions of higher education, trade and vocational schools, as well as two and four-year colleges.

Workplace Readiness Training: Workplace Readiness Training is designed to develop Social Skills and Independent Living Workshops/job clubs on social skills, workplace behavior and interaction, multicultural awareness, problem-solving skills. Designed to develop independent living and social skills necessary for a student to be successful in employment.

Instruction in Self-Advocacy: Opportunities to learn about rights, responsibilities and how to request accommodations, services or supports students may need to successfully complete the transition from secondary to post-secondary education and/or employment. These experiences may include mentoring by peers working in competitive integrated employment.

All five required areas must be available to students statewide; however, the provision of each service must be based on the need of the individual student.
What types of services are offered under Pre-ETS?
Pre-ETS may include:

Job Exploration Counseling: This category helps students explore different career paths and understand the world of work. Examples include:

Seminars/Workshops on careers and required skills.

Career ladders and interest inventories

Work-Based Learning Experiences: These experiences provide hands-on opportunities to gain exposure to real workplaces. Examples include:

Internships or apprenticeships in fields of interest.

Job shadows

Informational interview

Paid or unpaid work experiences

Mentoring or coaching to understand workplace expectations

Counseling on Post-Secondary Education or Training: This category offers guidance on pursuing higher education or training programs. Examples include:

Counseling and guidance about options upon exiting high school which may include academic or vocational programs

Assistance with college or vocational school applications

Financial aid and scholarship information

docx docx College Assessment Form

Workplace Readiness Training: These services focus on developing skills necessary for successful employment. Examples include:

Resume building and interview preparation

Time management and organizations skills

Communication and interpersonal skills

Problem-solving and conflict resolution training

Assistive technology and independent living training

Instruction in Self-Advocacy: This category helps students with disabilities learn how to advocate for themselves in the workplace. Examples include:

Developing self-advocacy skills to communicate needs and accommodations

Understanding disability rights and anti-discrimination laws

Building confidence and self-esteem to navigate the workplace effectively

These categories provide a comprehensive framework for assisting students in their transition to employment and/or post-secondary education, ensuring they gain the skills, knowledge, and experiences necessary for a successful career and higher education.
How do I refer a student?
Please use the Referral for BSBP Services Forms to refer a student for Pre-ETS services.

If possible, provide a copy of the IEP and/or eye report to determine that the student has a visual impairment.

Invite the BSBP Counselor to the student’s IEP meeting.

The Pre-ETS Verification of Educational Status Form will also need to be submitted to the local BSBP office.

Referral for BSBP Services Form (Electronic)

pdf pdf Referral for BSBP Services Form (Printable)

pdf pdf Pre-ETS Verification of Educational Status Form

BSBP Office Directory
Where can I find information on the latest advancements in assistive technology for the visually impaired?
Staying informed about the latest advancements in assistive technology for the visually impaired is essential to take advantage of new tools and resources. Here are some valuable sources where you can find information on the latest developments in this field:

American Foundation for the Blind (AFB): AFB offers information and resources on the latest assistive technology, including articles, product reviews, and research updates.

National Federation of the Blind (NFB): NFB provides information on assistive technology and resources to support blind and visually impaired individuals. They often share news about advancements in the field.

VisionAware: VisionAware is a website with a dedicated section on technology for people with visual impairments. They regularly update their content to include the latest advancements.

AccessWorld Magazine: This publication, by AFB, provides in-depth reviews and articles on the latest assistive technology and accessibility solutions.

Assistive Technology Blogs: Follow blogs written by individuals who are knowledgeable about assistive technology for the visually impaired. These blogs often feature product reviews and updates on emerging technologies.

American Printing House for the Blind (APH): APH offers information on accessible products and technology designed for the visually impaired, including updates on their own product offerings.

Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired: Hadley Institute provides courses and resources related to technology for the blind and visually impaired. They frequently share information about the latest developments.

Assistive Technology Conferences: Attend conferences and events focused on assistive technology and accessibility. These gatherings often feature demonstrations of the latest advancements and product launches.

Online Communities and Forums: Join online communities and forums dedicated to visual impairment and assistive technology. These communities can be valuable sources of information and user experiences with various tools.

Manufacturer Websites and Newsletters: Visit the websites of assistive technology manufacturers and subscribe to their newsletters to receive updates on new products and software.

Podcasts and YouTube Channels: Many podcasts and YouTube channels are dedicated to assistive technology and visual impairment. They often feature discussions, reviews, and demonstrations of the latest devices and apps.

Accessibility Experts on Social Media: Follow accessibility experts and organizations on social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. They often share information about the latest advancements.

Professional Organizations: Consider joining professional organizations related to visual impairment, such as the Association for Education and Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) or the International Council on English Braille (ICEB). These organizations often provide resources and updates.

By staying engaged with these sources, you can keep up with the latest assistive technology developments, which can enhance your independence and quality of life as a visually impaired individual.

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Information for Educators

Frequently Asked Questions for Educators