October 2024: Cool Weather, Even Cooler Programs and Resources
Image of DRS Transition masthead with multicolor paint splatters and the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services logo.
YOUTH, PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND COUNSELORS
Image of School Work Study, illustration of school building in blue and illustration of paper with pushpin and the word job in black
Does Your School Participate in Work Study?
School Work Study (SWS) is a work experience program designed to increase employment skills, overcome vocational barriers in a work setting, and provide paid work experiences within the school system and a community integrated setting.
SWS provides education and awareness for youth with disabilities, such as:
- Teaching your youth about work tolerance and stamina.
- Providing your youth, a recent, positive work record.
- Identifying the need for further training and support to achieve and maintain competitive employment.
- Building self-confidence within your youth.
- Offering career exploration opportunities for your youth.
To find out if your school has the program available, talk to the Special Education or Transition staff at your school or district. If they do not currently have the program, but want it, they can contact the DRS Counselor assigned to them.
Finding the right DRS Counselor is easy. Just visit the DRS Office Locator tool online and enter the name of the school or district.
Click here to open the DRS Office Locator tool [ https://www.okdrs.gov/office_locator_hs?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
Image of paint swatch Mark your calendar.
Stay Up-to-date with Transition
October 2024: Family Caregiver Respite Retreat
Image of logo, Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma
The Developmental Disabilities Council of Oklahoma (DDCO) is hosting a weekend retreat for those identified as primary caregivers of children and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. All caregivers in southern Oklahoma (counties include McCurtain, LeFlore, Choctaw, Pushmataha, Latimer, Pittsburg, Atoka, Bryan, Hughes, Seminole, Pottawatomie, Cleveland, McClain, Garvin, Stephens, Comanche, Cotton, Kiowa, Tillman, Greer, Jackson, Harmon) supporting an individual with I/DD will be eligible regardless of their current status in seeking support services for their care receiver. Please contact Jenifer Randle at jenifer.randle@okdhs.org if you have any questions.
Family caregivers will enjoy an all expenses paid weekend at Chickasaw Retreat and Conference Center in Sulphur, Oklahoma. Meals and respite voucher for the weekend are included. Optional outdoor activities (horseshoes, canoes, disc golf, fishing) as well as an outdoor painting activity, weather permitting.
If interested, and live in one of the counties listed above, please apply by clicking the link below.
October 2024: Walktober in the Park
Graphic, Walktober in the Park, details in paragraph below
Bring the family! Every Saturday in October beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Mineral Wells Park. Parking at the Logan County Health Department. Sponsored by Logan County Partnership and the Oklahoma Comprehensive Cancer Network. Other sponsors include Logan County, Loves, and Strong Families.
Mineral Wells Park Address: 819 S Division St, Guthrie, OK 73044
Logan County Health Department Address (for parking): 215 Fairgrounds Rd # A, Guthrie, OK 73044
October 2024: Family Fall Festival
Graphic, Family Fall Festival, details in paragraph below
Don't miss the fun at the Family Fall Festival on October 5, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. through 1:30 p.m. at the Greater Mt. Olive Baptist Church at 1020 NE 42nd St. Okla. City, OK 73111.
Sponsors include OUHSC DBP, Sooner SUCCESS, Mill Creek Community Foundation, Children's Health Foundation, Greater Mt. Olive Baptist Church, OUHSC Police, OU PPAC
Click here to register for Family Fall Festival [ https://form.jotform.com/SoonerSuccess_respite/FFF24?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
November 2024: Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI)
Image of 2024 Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI), Save the Date, details in paragraph below
The 2024 Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) is coming. Mark your calendars for November 6-7, 2024. This year, OTI will be held in Okla. City at the Embassy Suites on NW Expressway.
Join us at 2024 Oklahoma Transition Institute for an experience filled with insightful sessions and networking opportunities.
Location address: 3233 Northwest Expy, Okla. City, OK 73112
For questions about OTI, please email Yolanda Scott at yolandascott@cowib.org
Emoji of a hand point down to the link
Secure your spot today!
Tulsa Area and Oklahoma City Area Transition Fairs
A graphic of a chalk board with Transition Fairs Calendars for the Tulsa Area and Oklahoma City Area, links to calendars below, check back often.
NEW resource! Anyone can learn about transition (resource) fairs happening in both the Greater Tulsa and the Greater Oklahoma City areas. The calendars can be accessed from a computer through the following links:
Click here for Tulsa area transition fairs [ https://sites.google.com/transitionservicesofok.org/tulsatransitionfairs/home?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
Click here for Oklahoma City area transition fairs [ https://sites.google.com/transitionservicesofok.org/okctransitionfairs/home?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
Image of paint swatch and Meet the great and wonderful...
Student/Youth Spotlight
Serving and inspiring Oklahoma's students with disabilities is our passion; our purpose. Each month, we hope to highlight a student whose story encourages others.
We have learned that one of the best ways to hear about our most amazing students is from those that spend time with them everyday. So, we encourage family members, education professionals and transition professionals to tell us about students who are doing amazing things.
This month, Kevin Randall met Reis, a School Work Study participant who is full of life and energy. They talked about fun hobbies, career goals, and much more. Below is the conversation between Kevin and Reis.
Image of Reis
Meet Reis
"What are your interests and hobbies?
"I enjoy competing in the Special Olympics, where I participate in swimming, basketball, and bowling.
"What activity do you enjoy the most during the winter?
"I enjoy playing basketball and swimming during the winter. I also participate in the Make Promise Happen (MPH) program, which is part of the Central Oklahoma Camp & Conference Center. They provide quality camping experiences for people with intellectual and physical disabilities, as well as for community organizations, church groups, and a variety of other nonprofit organizations.
"What is your preferred Fall drink?
"My favorite drinks are soda pop, especially root beer, and root beer floats. Also at the Down Syndrome Association of Central Oklahoma (DSACO), we meet at local restaurants to enjoy meals with other self-advocates as food critics.
"If I were to provide you with $50,000 to create a positive impact in your community, how would you use it to bring about meaningful change?
"I would provide funding for youth to attend summer camp. I would also arrange transportation with a bus for people with disabilities to attend a training program that teaches work and life skills.
"Could you share your experience with the School Work Study Program?"
I enjoy shredding paper, cleaning items, and making drinks like tea and lemonade. I like delivering these drinks to the teaching staff at my school. The staff place orders through our School Work Study store, and we fill their orders and deliver the drinks to them daily. I also work in the cafeteria, where I help clean and stack tables.
"What is something you learned from the School Work Study Program?
"I have learned many things, such as cleaning, barista work (making teas and lemonade), vacuuming, navigation skills by traveling around the school to make deliveries to staff, and self-confidence through my work.
"What advice would you give to other young individuals who are interested in applying for the School Work Study Program?
"I encourage my friends and other students to sign up for the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) while in high school so they can add the School Work Study program to their DRS service plan (IPE).
"What is your dream career?
"I would like to work at my local Not Your Average Joe's so I can become a barista.
"Can you share one challenge you've faced due to your disability and how you managed to overcome it?
"Learning new skills is challenging, but I have overcome those challenges through repetition and perseverance.
"What advice do you have for young people who want to make a positive impact in their communities or the world at large?
"To learn new things, gain more skills, improve in their current work tasks, and stay committed.
"What is the most significant goal or dream you wish to achieve in your lifetime? "
I want to continue working after high school and be an active member of my community.
"What would you like the world to know about you?
"I enjoy watching YouTube videos. I'm funny and love doing funny things.
"Is there anyone specific you'd like to give a shoutout to?
"I want to give a shoutout to my mom and dad. I also want to give a shoutout to my teacher, Mrs. Speegle.
Nominate a student
How to nominate a Student:
If you know a current or former student who has participated in Transition events or who has found success through Transition services, please let us know by submitting this nomination form.
Click here to nominate a student [ https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdNEYU8CFfsQ7phT_t07qp3cXwhHWV8Z7mWEEyWNUf-F0Hi6g/viewform?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
Image of Paint stroke, Resources, blending services for all
Transition Resources
Image logo, Bridges Foundation
Bridges Foundation Transition Program
The Bridges Work Adjustment Training Program is designed to help students with disabilities gain the skills and confidence necessary to enter the workforce. Through personalized support and a structured training environment, participants are introduced to essential workplace skills such as time management, communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. The program also offers hands-on experience in various job settings, allowing individuals to develop practical skills that are directly applicable to real-world employment opportunities.
In addition to employment skill-building, Work Adjustment classes also provide training in life and social skills. By collaborating with local employers and organizations, Bridges creates pathways to meaningful employment, helping participants achieve greater independence. The Work Adjustment Training Program is crucial to Bridges’ mission to empower individuals with disabilities, fostering inclusion and equal opportunities in the workforce. Bridges currently partners with thirteen area high schools to support their students as they begin the journey from school to work. For more information about this program, you may contact Nikki Jolly, Chief Operating Officer. at njolly@thebridgesfound.org
Image of logo, SPARK360°
SPARK360°
Launched in Fall 2023, SPARK360° is a new Autism Support Program at the University of Oklahoma. SPARK360° is designed to support autistic students seeking an undergraduate degree as they navigate the hidden college curriculum. The program provides full-circle support for participating students through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development.
OKDRS and SPARK360o recently finalized a contract to financially support OKDRS clients who participate in this new and innovative program. This partnership will allow students who may not otherwise be able to participate to reap the benefits of SPARK360o and realize positive postsecondary outcomes and employment. For more information, please visit https://link.ou.edu/spark360 [ https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/link.ou.edu/spark360__;!!NZFi6Pppv9YRQw!uZNH0wN6I3ebgt7Xd8NasX7aQiz8_UjO3_AfwAzxqxrRNe9FrlMwn45HRH5mHgcFe7p1S2C0DYv0Fg%24?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery] or contact Angela Barbour at spark360@ou.edu.
SPARK360° is housed under the OU Zarrow Institute on Transition & Self-Determination.
Image of Grant Opportunities
Here are some exciting grant opportunities to be aware of:
Student Success Grants– The NEA Foundation
- Student Success Grants support educators who strive to implement innovative and effective forms of learning, helping students find joy in learning and achieve their potential.
- Grant applications focused on the following topics are most likely to be funded: Enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills, Master of essential academic content, Communication and collaboration skills, and Project-based learning and learning experiences connected to real-world issues and challenges.
- Lead and partner applicants for Student Success grants must be current members of the NEA.
- The 2025 application period begins December 2024 and goes through February 2025. Notification to winners will take place in April 2025.
- Visit _https://www.neafoundation.org/educator-grants-and-fellowships/student-success-grants/ [ https://www.neafoundation.org/educator-grants-and-fellowships/student-success-grants/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]_ for more information about Student Success Grants.
Envision Equity Grants – The NEA Foundation
- Envision Equity Grants enable educators to implement innovative methods of teaching and learning with the aim of deepening their commitments to all forms of equity, while advancing students’ understanding of world cultures, civic engagement, and democracy.
- Grant applications focused on the following topics are most likely to be funded: Enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills, Master of essential academic content, Communication and collaboration skills, and Project-based learning and learning experiences connected to real-world issues and challenges.
- Lead and partner applicants for Envision Equity grants must be current members of the NEA.
- The 2025 application period begins December 2024 and goes through February 2025. Notification to winners will take place in April 2025.
- Visit _https://www.neafoundation.org/educator-grants-and-fellowships/envision-equity-grants/ [ https://www.neafoundation.org/educator-grants-and-fellowships/envision-equity-grants/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]_ for more information about Envision Equity Grants.
In Memoriam
Remembering Keith
Today we remember Keith Tampkins. He passed away Sept. 19th. He was an outstanding Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) Counselor in the Ada office and a VR professional since 2004. Keith took his career seriously and earned multiple college degrees.
Prior to entering this field, Keith worked as an electrician and in mechanical maintenance and loved his work. After sustaining some significant physical injuries, Keith had to leave the work he had grown to love so much. Eventually, he found his way to Vocational Rehabilitation as a career path where he could help other people find appropriate jobs despite disability-related challenges.
Keith acknowledged that what he went through when faced with unexpectedly needing to change careers profoundly impacted him. He remembered how it felt to work very hard to re-establish himself professionally and brought a passion for helping others going through the same thing.
He was an experienced, passionate, and thoughtful VR professional who was committed to Oklahoma’s students with disabilities. We will miss him very much but try to be the kind professional he was.
Read his obituary: https://www.sevierfuneralhome.com/obituary/keith-tampkins [ https://www.sevierfuneralhome.com/obituary/keith-tampkins?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery ]
Image of Keith Tampkins
Keith Tampkins
Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
What is Transition?
The Transition program provides services to prepare students with disabilities for employment and life after high school. Services may include career counseling, vocational evaluation, work adjustment training, on-the-job training, work-study, and job development and placement. The Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired divisions jointly run the Transition program so the youth can easily move into adult services when it is time.
Start the Application Process [ https://oklahoma.gov/okdrs/job-seekers/services/app-for-service.html?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
Contact Us:
Renee Sansom Briscoe
rsansom@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-951-3488
Chris Compton
ccompton@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-605-9651
Tracy Keeley
Tracy.Keeley@okdrs.gov
Phone: 918-581-2322
Kevin Randall II
krandall@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-255-9663
Image of Logo, Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services
Image of Logo, Oklahoma Works - a proud partner of the American Job Center network [ http://www.oklahomaworks.gov/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery]
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We can help create the blueprint for your youth’s success
Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services
Transition Services
3535 NW 58th Street, Suite 500, Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Website [ https://oklahoma.gov/okdrs.html?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery] | Email Us <CCompton@okdrs.gov>
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