January 2026: So Excited for a New Year in Transition
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Image of DRS Transition masthead with multicolor paint splatters and the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services logo.
YOUTH, PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND COUNSELORS
Image of DRS logo. DeafBlind Services.
DeafBlind Services for Transition-age Youth
DRS DeafBlind services are provided to clients determined eligible due to co-occurring loss of vision and loss of hearing. These services are part of the larger set of Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired (SBVI).
Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired provides advocacy, information and referral, evaluation, guidance and counseling services, and training in alternative skills for daily living for individuals who are DeafBlind and their families.
The primary vocational rehabilitation services are counseling and guidance with job placement. However, other services may also be provided as needed for an individual to compensate for, correct or prevent disability-based barriers to employment. These services can include, but are not limited to:
- Physical or mental restoration
- Vocational, college or other training
- Assistive technology evaluations, equipment and training
- Information on disability resources
- Transportation in connection with VR services being provided
- Supported employment
- Self-employment assistance
- Transition school-to-work services for youth with disabilities
- Other services based on individual needs.
DRS DeafBlind services also include access to the Federal Communication Commission’s program established to provide two-way distance communication to individuals who are DeafBlind. The iCanConnect program may provide equipment to eligible participants including tactile, haptic, and other equipment that assist individuals with communication based on eligibility.
Individuals may be referred for DeafBlind services who are legally blind or have progressive visual disabilities that will result in legal blindness and severe to profound hearing loss or significant difficulties communicating in home or community settings. There are no age requirements for some services; however, this program primarily serves adults.
DeafBlind services staff work closely with other DRS programs to ensure that Oklahomans with dual sensory loss have equal access to all services and programs.
There are unique resources and services for students who are determined eligible for DeafBlind services. Once determined eligible, students can work the DRS DeafBlind team to find the most appropriate resources for helping prepare them for life after high school. These resources often include vocational counseling tailored to the needs of students who are experiencing both vision loss and hearing loss. DeafBlind clients might benefit from communication-related and other assistive technology devices. The DeafBlind team will help eligible students find long term, sustainable opportunities for independence.
For more information on DRS DeafBlind services, contact the DeafBlind Services team at DRSDeafBlindServices@okdrs.gov or by phone at (580) 310-5301.
More information about the FCC’s iCanConnect Program can be found by visiting https://www.icanconnect.org/
Mark Your Calendar
Stay Up-to-date with Transition
January 15 and 22, 2026:Project SEARCH | Francis Tuttle Information Nights
Flyer that says, “Mission Employment. Project SEARCH. Francis Tuttle Information Night. Project SEARCH Francis Tuttle logo. In person January 15, 2026 at 6 p.m. Tuttle Theatre, 1277 N. Rockwell Ave., OKC, OK 73142. Virtual January 22, 2026 at 6 p.m. All are welcome: future interns, families, teachers, community partners, employers, and anyone else wanting to learn more about the project search program. Project SEARCH is made possible through a partnership with Integris Baptist Medical Center, Mercy Hospital, Francis Tuttle Technology Center, DRTC, Department of Rehabilitation Services, and the University of Oklahoma National Center for Disability and Education Training. RSVP HERE (arrow pointing to QR Code). QR code. Email for more info: projectsearch@francistuttle.edu.” Images of two people working on the flyer.
Project SEARCH at Francis Tuttle Technology Center beginning their recruitment season. The application is now available, and first priority will go to those who turn in the application before February 20, but applications will be accepted until the program is filled.
Their website has been updated! A helpful Project SEARCH video is on the webpage. You can now find an interest form link and download application on their website using the link below.
They will be having two information nights in January – In person on January 15 and virtual on January 22.
All are welcome: future interns, families, teachers, community partners, employers, and anyone else wanting to learn more about the Project SEARCH program.
Select this link to visit the Project SEARCH webpage
Select this link to RSVP for the information nights
For more information on applying or please send an email to projectsearch@francistuttle.edu
January 26, 2026: The Heartland Transition PLC, Transition Resource Fair
Flyer that says, “Mid America Tech Center. 27438 OK-59, Wayne, OK 73095. The Heartland Transition PLC Transition Resource Fair. Resource booths: Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, Sooner SUCCESS, OU preETS, Oklahoma YLF, Spark 360, USAO Neill Wint Program, Rose State College, East Central University, Mid America Technology Center, Oklahoma Work Incentives Planning and Assistance, and many more. Vendor door prizes, refreshments provided. Monday, January 26, 2026, from 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. For more info contact Jenny Allen-Price at allenj@purcellps.org. 405-442-0099 X510 or 407-487-3145. Images of students at a desk, in a classroom and graduating.”
You are invited to The Heartland Transition PLC's Transition Resource Fair. This engaging and helpful event will take place on Monday, January 26, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. through 7:30 p.m. at Mid America Technology Center in Wayne, Oklahoma. Information on transition resources for youth with disabilities will be available from transition professionals and educators. You won't want to miss this event.
Booths at the resource fair include representatives from Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services, Sooner SUCCESS, OU Pre-ETS, USAO Neill Wint Program, Rose State College, East Central University, Mid America Technology Center, Oklahoma Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (OWIPA) and many more.
Refreshments will be provided and attendees will have a chance to win door prizes.
Address:
Mid America Technology Center
27438 OK-59
Wayne, OK 73095
For more information, contact Jenny Allen-Price at allenj@purcellps.org or by phone at 405-442-0099 ext 510 or 407-487-3145.
March 27, 2026: Save the Date for Joining Forces
Flyer that says, “Joining forces. Family and professional partnerships. Save the date March 27, 2026. Image of a calendar with Friday the 27th circled.”
Mark your calendar for March 27, 2026. Joining Forces: Supporting Family-Professional Partnerships Conference brings together local, state and national leaders to discuss best practices and promising practices in the area of family-professional partnerships. Participants gain knowledge and practical tools to use as they work together in support of a good life for the person with special health care needs, intellectual disabilities and other Oklahomans. The conference also offers opportunities for making connections with professionals, families and others for future partnership activities.
Applications Open for BEST STEP 2026
Flyer that says, “Flyer that says, “BEST Step 2026. Live your best life! Arrows pointing to the words, ‘Build skills’ and ‘Earn money’ with drawing image of people high fiving. Gain summer work experience and improve your job readiness! Takes place June and July, 2026. Applications due by March 2, 2026. Scan QR Code to apply. QR Code. For Students at least 16 years old with a documented disability, a client of DRS, potentially eligible for services due to disability, and returning to school in 2026. For more information: transitionteam@okdrs.gov; 405-951-3463.”
It's finally time. The summer 2026 application for the popular summer program, BEST STEP will open. The program is for students who are at least 16-years old with a documented disability, are a client of DRS OR are eligible for services due to disability, AND are returning to school in 2026.
Participants will build valuable skills while having fun and interacting with peers. There will be opportunities to apply for paid internships with employers in their communities. Applications can be submitted through the QR code above or by using the link below.
BEST STEP takes place in June and July 2026
*Applications are due by March 2, 2026
Select this link to apply online for BEST STEP 2026
Select this link for a printable BEST STEP 2026 application
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, we shine the spotlight on Tessa, a recent Oklahoma School for the Blind graduate. She and Tracy Keely talked about the power of resilience, her love for animals, gaining work experience in school and so much more. Here is how the conversation went.
Meet Tessa
Image of Tessa.
How old are you?
I am 19-years old.
Where did you go to High School?
I graduated from the Oklahoma School for the Blind in May 2025.
What are your interests and hobbies?
I like watching true crime TV shows.
What is your favorite season and why?
I like Fall season best. I like it because it is not too hot and it is not too cold.
What is your preferred drink?
My overall favorite drink is Coca-Cola.
Have you ever had any prior work experience or volunteer opportunities?
Yes, I worked in the front office of my school. I helped them transfer calls.
What are your plans after you complete high school?
I plan on returning to OSB for their adult program.
What is your dream career?
My dream career is being a veterinarian. I want to work with puppies and horses.
Can you share one challenge you have faces due to your disability and how you managed to overcome it?
One challenge I face is navigating in my surroundings. OSB has taught me navigation skills to help overcome this challenge.
What would you like the world to know about you?
I would like the world to know that I don’t ever plan on giving up—even when it is hard!
What advice would you give to other young individuals who are exploring potential career paths?
My advice is to ask yourself, “Does it make you happy?”
Is there anyone specific you’d like to give a shoutout to?
Yes, I would like to give a shoutout to my mom and my friend, Ocie.
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
Resources, blending services for all
Transition Resources
Best Buddies logo.
Best Buddies
Best Buddies is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to creating friendships, leadership opportunities, and inclusive communities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Oklahoma. They partner with elementary schools through colleges to help students build meaningful peer connections, gain social confidence, and feel a true sense of belonging. Their programs support students with disabilities as they prepare for their future by encouraging self-advocacy, leadership skills, community engagement and the social experiences that matter most as they transition into adulthood.
Whether it’s building everyday friendships, participating in schoolwide activities, learning to communicate needs, or discovering what inclusion looks like beyond graduation, Best Buddies provides a framework that supports growth in a fun, accessible way.
If you’re interested in bringing Best Buddies to your school or want to learn more, feel free to reach out to them anytime.
Contact: Melanie Pleasant, Lead Program Manager – Best Buddies Oklahoma melaniepleasant@bestbuddies.org
Special Olympics Oklahoma logo.
Special Olympics Oklahoma
Special Olympics Oklahoma (SOOK) is a nonprofit organization that provides inclusive, year-round sports training and athletic competition for individuals with intellectual disabilities across the state. Through its wide range of sports, health programs, and leadership opportunities, SOOK creates a supportive environment where athletes can build skills, strengthen confidence and experience the joy of teamwork. The organization also works closely with schools, communities, and volunteers to promote acceptance and inclusion, ensuring that athletes of all ages have meaningful opportunities to grow both on and off the field.
Through initiatives like Unified Champion Schools®, SOOK supports high school students with and without disabilities by promoting a positive school climate, encouraging physical fitness and building leadership skills. These programs help prevent bullying, enhance student engagement, and create meaningful connections between students of all abilities. As youth transition beyond high school, SOOK equips them with confidence, social skills and leadership experiences that prepare them for success in life after graduation. Students are able to join community teams and stay involved post-graduation with Special Olympics Oklahoma in a wide range of activities and sport competitions.
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm
Points of Contact:
Josie Cox, Program Initiatives Director, josie@sook.org
John Seals, VP of Sports and Training, john@sook.org
Haley Hilmes, Volunteer Coordinator, haley@sook.org
Additional Information on Project SEARCH Oklahoma: Don’t Miss Out - Apply for Next Year’s Project SEARCH Programs Today!
Project SEARCH logo.
Many programs are now accepting applications for next year’s Project SEARCH classes. If you or someone you know is interested, please use the links or contact information provided below for each program.
ntegris Baptist/Francis Tuttle Technology Center
FTTC Application or Contact Grace Muirhead, Grace.Muirhead@francistuttle.edu
Mercy Hospital OKC/Francis Tuttle Technology Center
FTTC Application or Contact Bonnie Allen, Bonnie.Allen@francistuttle.edu
Wyndham Grand Oklahoma City Downtown/Metro Technology Center
Application Purpose & Guidelines or contact Kennell Winrow, kennell.winrow@metrotech.edu
Integris Enid Health Hospital/OU-NCDET
Contact Kristy Ramos, Kristy.A.Ramos-1@ou.edu
Integris Canadian Valley/Canadian Valley Technology Center
Application FY26 CVT Center or Contact Jill Scott, jscott@cvtech.edu
Embassy Suites Norman/Norman Public Schools
Contact: Sara Newsome, saran@normanps.org
Norman Regional Healthplex/Moore Public School
Contact: Richard Garza, richardgarza@mooreschools.com
Integris Southwest/Oklahoma City Public Schools
Contact: Kiley Smith, KSmith1@okcps.org
Saint Francis Hospital/Tulsa Technology Center
Contact: Chelsi Singleton, csinglet@tulsatech.edu or Susette Tucker, sttucker@tulsatech.edu
Integris Edmond/Edmond Public Schools
Integris Health Edmond EPS 2026-2027 Application or Contact Lisa Barnum, lisa.barnum@edmondschools.net
Plan Your Way OK logo.
Plan Your Way OK is a Transition-centered website that has a wealth of information for students, families, professionals and businesses.
Select this link to visit the Plan Your Way OK website
Folders
Transition Folders
Transition Folders include recommended resources, services, and activities for students with disabilities as they prepare for life after high school. Grade levels include high school, middle school and elementary school. It's never too early to plan a child's future.
Due to inventory challenges, the best way to get the folders' information to give to others is to download the following pdf files and print from a color printer.
Select this link for High School Folders pdf file
Select this link for Middle School Folders pdf file
Select this link for Elementary School Folders pdf file
Opportunities
Grant Opportunities
Here are some exciting grant opportunities to be aware of:
Oklahoma Department of Career Technology Education (ODCTE) Innovative Grants:
- New for the FY27 funding cycle, all innovative grants will now be available to rural schools below the $15,000 minimum requirement that are otherwise members of a consortium. Eligibility requirements include submission of a completed Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA), and the school district must have at least 2 programs (defined as 2 PIDs) to apply. The CLNA submitted by the fiscal agent of the consortium is acceptable if the innovative grant aligns with the priorities outlined in the CLNA. Funding amounts vary based on the district’s previous year’s allocation using the parameters below.
- This grant can be used to help support Oklahoma career and technology education students who belong to a special population to explore career options and for transition support into postsecondary education/training levels as well as employment.
- Perkins Local Education Agencies, LEAs or consortia who meet the $15,000 requirement OR technology centers, technology center co-ops, postsecondary institutions, or consortia who meet the $50,000 requirement are eligible to complete the grant application.
For more information, visit https://oklahoma.gov/careertech/educators/perkins/innovation-grants.html
McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation Grant Program:
- The McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation awards grants to individuals in amounts up to $10,000 per year for a maximum of $20,000 over two years.
- The Foundation considers proposals that foster understanding, deepen students’ knowledge, and provide opportunities to expand awareness of the world around them.
Visit https://mccartheydressman.org/academic-enrichment-grants/ for more information about McCarthey Dressman Education Foundation grants.
Callie Jordan Memorial Scholarship and the VR Carter Memorial Scholarship:
The Oklahoma Foundation for the Education of Blind Children and Youth, Inc. is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the Callie Jordan Memorial Scholarship and the VR Carter Memorial Scholarship.
Each scholarship awards $1,000 to a student selected by the Foundation’s scholarship committee.
These scholarships are available to:
- Graduating high school seniors who are visually impaired, and
- Outstanding visually impaired undergraduate college students
Both scholarships honor students who demonstrate extraordinary leadership, academic excellence, initiative and service to others.
Application Deadline: End of day April 1, 2026
Notification of Award: By the end of May 2026
We encourage eligible students to apply and to share this opportunity with others who may qualify. We look forward to recognizing the exceptional achievements of this year’s applicants.
Introducing…
Meet Lexi
Lexi Harrison is a work skills trainer with the University of Oklahoma National Center for Disability Education and Training (NCDET). She is from Little Axe, Oklahoma and is thriving in her role as a Work Skills Trainer.
She knew at a young age that she wanted to help others. Early in her schooling, she was impressed by the creativity and resilience of her classmates who faced disability-related challenges. She had a peer mentor spirit about her as she helped peers with disabilities however and whenever she could; eventually this led her to a volunteer opportunity with Special Olympics.
Lexi is passionate about helping students with disabilities become prepared for a successful and independent future. When she is not busy teaching students with disabilities relevant job skills, she is thinking about strategies she can use when teaching job skills. Lexi is dedicated to the profession she has chosen and she continues to make a measurable positive impact on those she serves.
Her motto is to put in the work and let the results speak for themselves. When asked about her favorite quote, Lexi said it is a line from a Madea movie, “People will talk about you until the day you die. It is YOUR choice to listen to them. It is not what folks call you; it is what you respond to.”
Lexi is an energetic, caring and dedicated professional. We are lucky to have her on the team.
Image of Lexi.
Lexi Harrison
Work Skills Trainer
University of Oklahoma
ph. 405-325-3206
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.
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
Jessie Renteria
jrenteria@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-951-3463
Porsheana Brown
pbrown2@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-334-7199
Jeff Newton
jeffrey.newton@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-881-9314
Image of Logo, Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services
Image of Logo, Oklahoma Works - a proud partner of the American Job Center network
Image of Empowering Oklahomans with Disabilities, with a paint brush.
We can help create the blueprint for your youth’s success
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