July 2026: Having a Summer to Remember

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Image of DRS Transition masthead with multicolor paint splatters and the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services logo.

YOUTH, PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND COUNSELORS

 

Flyer that looks like a map that says, “School Work Study and Work Adjustment Training for 18-22. Location pins that say ‘High School, Employee Training Site, Mentorship Program, Logical Partnerships, DRS Employees, Build Skills, Career Exploration, Transition Services, Job Site, Prepare for Future, Build Skills, Transition Services, Work Place.’”

For students with disabilities, having access to relevant and helpful transition services and resources is critical to their future success. When transition services are well structured and have a track record of successful impact on students with disabilities, everyone wins.

Some aspects of transition services and programs can seem difficult to understand. Examples of commonly used commonly discussed services that can seem unclear at times are the School Work Study (SWS) program, the Work Adjustment Training (WAT) program and the 18-22 Transition Program. Here, we will explain SWS, WAT and the 18-22 Transition Program. We will establish a clear understanding of each as well as what SWS and WAT can look like for students in the 18-22 Transition Program.

What is School Work Study (SWS)

School Work Study (SWS) is a structured work experience program for students ages 16-21, arranged through partnerships between the school district and the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS). Students participate in actual work experiences in school settings or community-based job sites.

The goals of SWS are to:

• Develop workplace readiness skills.
• Learn appropriate work habits and behaviors.
• Practice communication and social skills in a work environment.
• Gain experience following workplace expectations.
• Explore career interests through real work experiences.
• Increase independence in work settings.

Students may earn wages and gain practical experience in competitive or supported work environments while continuing to receive educational support and instruction.

Who Is Typically a Good Candidate for SWS?

Students may be good candidates for School Work Study when they:

• Demonstrate basic work readiness skills.
• Can follow simple workplace routines with support.
• Are interested in exploring employment options.
• Benefit from learning through hands-on experiences.
• Need real-world opportunities to apply skills learned at school.
• Are working toward employment as a post-school goal.

SWS is often appropriate for students who are ready to practice job skills in authentic work environments while continuing to receive coaching and support.

What is Work Adjustment Training (WAT)

Work Adjustment Training (WAT) is a structured employment preparation program for students ages 16-21, designed to build the foundational skills needed for workplace success. WAT focuses on helping students develop appropriate work behaviors, routines and habits before entering competitive employment.

The goals of WAT are to:

• Improve attendance and punctuality.
• Develop task completion and productivity skills.
• Increase workplace independence.
• Build appropriate workplace behavior and social interactions.
• Learn how to accept supervision and feedback.
• Strengthen overall employability skills.
• Improve stamina and consistency in work settings.

Progress is monitored and training activities are individualized to meet each student's needs.

Who Is Typically a Good Candidate for WAT?

Students may be good candidates for Work Adjustment Training when they:

• Need additional support developing work habits and routines.
• Require instruction in workplace behavior and expectations.
• Need practice with following directions, staying on task or completing assignments independently.
• Benefit from structured instruction before participating in community employment.
• Need opportunities to build confidence and work endurance.

WAT is often used as a steppingstone toward School Work Study, competitive employment or other community-based work experiences.

Examples of Student Activities

Activities may vary based on student goals, interests, abilities and available community partnerships.

Examples of School Work Study activities may include:

• Stocking shelves.
• Organizing inventory.
• Clerical and office support tasks.
• Filing and document preparation.
• Mail delivery within a building.
• Custodial or maintenance support.
• Food service or cafeteria assistance.
• Retail support activities.
• Library support tasks.
• Community-based employment experiences.

Examples of Work Adjustment Training activities may include:

• Practicing attendance and punctuality.
• Following multi-step directions.
• Completing assigned tasks within designated timeframes.
• Learning workplace communication skills.
• Practicing customer service interactions.
• Developing appropriate workplace behavior.
• Learning safety procedures.
• Building task endurance and productivity.
• Participating in simulated work activities.
• Practicing teamwork and cooperation.

Many students participate in both types of programming as they progress toward greater independence and employment readiness.

How SWS and WAT Differ

School Work Study (SWS) offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience by applying skills in authentic workplace settings.

Work Adjustment Training (WAT) primarily focuses on developing the work behaviors, routines and employability skills needed to succeed in those environments.

While the programs have different purposes, they often complement one another and may both be included in a student's transition plan.

What is the 18–22 Transition Program

The 18-22 transition program might be referred to in different ways. One program synonymous with the 18-22 transition program is the Oklahoma Alternate Assessment Program (OAAP), also known as the “Alternate Diploma”. OAAP provides extended transition services for students ages 18-22 with the most significant cognitive disabilities. Eligible individuals may remain enrolled in public school until the conclusion of the academic year in which they turn 22, thereby continuing to receive special education support, job training, and instruction in independent living skills. Students who earn an Alternate Diploma may also retain access to special education transition services through age 22, provided they meet requirements established by their Individualized Education Program (IEP). The objective of these services is to equip students with employment, independent living and community engagement competencies essential for life after high school.

Transition services are tailored to the unique strengths, interests, preferences, and post-secondary goals of each student. Offerings may include vocational training, practical work experience, job readiness education, independent living instruction, community-based learning and referrals to adult service agencies.

What an 18–22 Transition Program Is—and Is Not

The purpose of an 18–22 transition program is to prepare students for adult life after they leave the school system. These services are provided through the students’ IEP and are designed to help students build the skills needed for employment, independent living, and participation in the community.

What an 18–22 Transition Program Is

An 18–22 transition program is:

• An individualized special education service based on the student's IEP goals and transition needs.
• A program focused on preparing students for adult outcomes, including employment, community participation, and increased independence.
• An opportunity for students to receive instruction in real-world settings such as workplaces, community locations and independent living environments.
• A time to strengthen vocational, social, communication, self-advocacy and daily living skills.
• A bridge between school services and adult services, including vocational rehabilitation, employment support and community resources.
• A way to provide continued support while students practice and apply skills in authentic environments.

What an 18–22 Transition Program Is Not

An 18–22 transition program is not:

• An extension of traditional high school.
• A program designed primarily for earning credits or completing typical academic coursework.
• A guarantee of employment upon exit.
• A permanent adult service program.
• A day care or recreational program.
• A one-size-fits-all placement where all students participate in the same activities.

How Services Are Determined

Participation in an 18–22 transition program is determined by the IEP team based on the student's individual needs. Services should be connected to measurable post-secondary goals and should address the skills the student needs to be successful after leaving school.

The IEP team should consider:

• Employment goals.
• Independent living needs.
• Community participation goals.
• Functional skill development.
• Self-advocacy and decision-making skills.
• Recommendations from transition assessments.
• Input from the student and family.

SWS, WAT and the 18-22 Transition Program

The 18–22 transition program is structured to facilitate the successful progression from school to adulthood. Post-secondary School Work Study (SWS) and post-secondary Work Adjustment Training (WAT) help students move successfully from school to adult life. They enable participants to cultivate employment skills, enhance independence, and prepare for active involvement in their communities. All services must be individualized and appropriately aligned with each student's abilities, interests, and long-term aspirations.

Students participating in the 18-22 transition program who can benefit from post-secondary SWS or from post-secondary WAT should talk to an academic counselor or advisor at their school to get connected with the program that best fits their situation.

Red and yellow flyer with a blue circle with the words, “Save the date! Join us at the 2026 DeafBlind Awareness Day, Wednesday, July 1, 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Metro Tech OKC 1900 Springlake Dr., Oklahoma City.”

Please join the DRS Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired team at the 2026 DeafBlind Awareness Day! It will be held on Wednesday, July 1 from 1:00 p.m. through 4:00 p.m. at Metro Tech Springlake Campus.

Address:
1900 Springlake Dr.
Oklahoma City, OK  73111

Flyer that says, “Learn digital skills. Build online confidence. Thrive online! Digital Literacy Training. Digital citizenship. Stay safe. Stay connected. Jion us for this joint learning opportunity for young adults with IDD and the parents/caregivers who support them. Brought to you by the partners of Disability Advisory Coalition! Tuesday, July 7, 2026, 9-11 a.m. Part 1: Healthy digital habits, online relationships, handling digital drama. Wednesday, August 5, 2026, 2-4 p.m. Part 2: Cyber safety, online misinformation, digital footprint. In-person: Legacy Plaza, 5310 East 31st Street, Tulsa, OK 74135. Questions? tgist@thearcok.org. Logos, Autism Foundation of Oklahoma, Disability Advisory Coalition, The Grove, Oklahoma Family Network, OKIPSE Alliance, Sooner Success, The Arc.” Image of boy with down syndrome sitting in front of a computer on flyer.

This is a two part in person training in Tulsa. Thrive Online! Digital Literacy Training is where you can learn about digital citizenship including how to stay safe and stay connected. Part one is on July 7 from 9:00 a.m. through 11:00 a.m. and part two is on August 5 from 2:00 p.m. through 4:00 p.m.

Join the Disability Advisory Coalition for this joint learning opportunity for young adults with IDD and the parents/caregivers who support them. In the training, learn digital skills and build online confidence.

Location:
Legacy Plaza
5310 East 31st Street
Tulsa, OK  74135

Questions? Send an email to tgist@thearcok.org

Select this link to register for Thrive Online! Digital Literacy Training

Flyer that says, “Logo, Design and Create S.T.E.M. Camp. 2026. (QR Code) Apply by scanning the above QR code or visit the following link: https://bit.ly/technowstemapply. A partnership between the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services and Tech-Now Inc. Logo, Tech-Now Inc. technowincok@gmail.com. Logo, Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services. rsansom@okdrs.gov. Be part of an on-site STEM Camp in your area. The no cost three day camps are now being planned for the summer. The camps utilize project based learning empathizing STEM Skills such as the use of computer and related technologies to give students pre-employment experiences and skills that will help them prepare for post-high school success. Come and be a part of this awesome opportunity to learn about computer aided design, product development, and what your future can include. Participants must be able to follow verbal instructions with limited support. Lunch and snacks are provided at no cost each day. Design-Create-Compete on both sides of the flyer.” Images of toy cars, hats, a group photo, bracelets, logos and a graph next to the words and letters, “MS: Manufacturing skills, EM: Employment modeling, E: Experimentation.”

Be a part of an on-site STEM Camp in your area. The no cost, three day camps are now being planned and scheduled for the summer. Campers who are a good fit for STEM Camps always have a great time. With so many exciting hands on activities, this is a summer camp students do not want to miss out on. Space is limited so sign up as soon as possible to have the best chance of reserving your spot. Sign up using the QR code above or the link below.

Select this link to sign up for Summer 2026 STEM Camp

Select this link to download the Summer 2026 STEM Camp flyer

Flyer that says, “One-Page Profile. An Adaptive Book Workshop. Join us for an informative presentation on the importance of creating a One-Page Profile for your child and how it can be used across different settings such as school, activities, medical appointments, and community programs. Plus! Join our Adaptive Book Workshop and learn how to turn simple books into engaging learning experiences. A One-Page Profile is a simple but powerful tool that provides a quick snapshot of your child – including their strengths, needs, preferences, communication style, supports, and what helps them succeed. It can be shared with teachers, caregivers, therapists, coaches, and anyone who interacts with your child. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how one simple page can make a big difference! The first 30 registrants will receive free copy of Brown Bear, Brown Bear! July 21, 6:30 p.m. via Zoom. Funded in part by: (logos) Oklahoma Partnership for School Readiness, Family Matters, Oklahoma Family Network. Register here (QR Code). For more information about events near you, visit www.oklahomafamilynetwork.org.” Cartoon images of people with paperwork.

This is a virtual (via Zoom) workshop taking place on July 21 at 6:30 p.m. Join Oklahoma Family Network for an informative presentation on the importance of creating a One-Page Profile for your child and how it can be used across different settings such as school, activities, medical appointments and community programs. Plus, join their Adaptive Book Workshop and learn how to turn simple books into engaging learning experiences.

A One-Page Profile is a simple but powerful tool that provides a quick snapshot of your child - including their strength, needs, preferences, communication style, supports and what helps them succeed. It can be shared with teachers, caregivers, therapists, coaches and anyone who interacts with your child.

Select this link to register for One-Page Profile: An Adaptive Book Workshop

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 every day. 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 Iris, an Enid high school graduate. She and Tracy Keely talked about her favorite things in life, the Project SEARCH program and goals for her future. Here is how the conversation went.

Meet Iris

Image of Iris.

Where did you go to High School?
I graduated from Enid High School in May 2023.

What are your interests and hobbies?
Art, making music and writing.

What is your favorite thing or activity to do? 
My favorite thing to do is all things art.

What is your preferred drink?
My favorite drink is Sprite Zero.

Have you ever had any prior work experience or volunteer opportunities? If yes, what experiences or opportunities have you had?
Yes, I have experience in a little bit of everything. I have worked from fast food to working with animals.

As a part of the Project SEARCH program, what work rotations have you participated in and what were your duties?
I have worked in Patient Access and Emergency Room departments. For the Patient Access department, I mainly organize and take patients to their room. For the ER department, I cleaned and sanitized the area.

What is something you learned from the Project SEARCH program?
I have learned how to cope properly with stress.

What are your plans after you complete the Project SEARCH program?
My plans are to work in an office.

What is your favorite part about the Project SEARCH program?
My favorite part of the Project SEARCH program are my teachers and co-workers.

What is your dream career and why?
My dream job is working with animals.

What advice or tips would you like to share with other youth?
My advice is to other youth is to stay strong.

What is the most significant goal or dream you wish to achieve in your lifetime?
My lifetime goal is for my art to reach people.

What would you like the world to know about you?
I want people to know about my art and that I am an artist.

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.

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) logo.

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) assist students with a documented disability, ages 14-21 and enrolled in an Oklahoma school system, to explore, discover, increase awareness and prepare for post-secondary training/education and/or employment. Pre-ETS activities focus on job exploration, work-based learning, workplace readiness, self-advocacy and post-secondary education counseling.

Depending on which part of the state a student is in, Pre-ETS will be provided by either Kiamichi Technology Center, Central Technology Center or the University of Oklahoma.

Jesse Renteria at DRS can help direct those who are interested to the appropriate Pre-ETS team member.

For more information or to get connected, please contact DRS team member Jessie at:

JRenteria@okdrs.gov or by phone at 405-951-3463.

 

OK IPSE Alliance logo.

OK IPSE Alliance

Oklahoma Inclusive Postsecondary Education (OK IPSE) Alliance is a partnership between the Department of Rehabilitation Services, Sooner SUCCESS and the Oklahoma Department of Education. This program is focused on ensuring that Oklahoma students with intellectual and developmental disabilities can achieve higher education and participate fully in campus life.

OK IPSE programs are in higher education settings across the state. These programs include RiverHawks Scholar Program at Northeastern State University, Sooner Works at the University of Oklahoma, Neill-Wint Center for Neurodiversity at University of Science & Arts of Oklahoma, and Opportunity Orange Scholars at Oklahoma State University. Learn more about each by using the links below.

Select this link to learn more about RiverHawks Scholars

Select this link to learn more about Sooner Works

Select this link to learn more about Neill-Wint Center for Neurodiversity

Select this link to learn more about Opportunity Orange Scholars

For answers to questions about OK IPSE Alliance, send an email to julie@okipsealliance.org.

 

Oklahoma ABLE Tech and Department of Human Services (DHS) Future Ready Project

Future Ready logo.

Are you a public school educator within 100 miles of Stillwater? Do you work with students in transition programs, ages 14 to 24 years old, with intellectual disabilities?

With administrative approval, your students could participate in the Department of Human Services (DHS) Future Ready research project designed to help transition-age students build new skills and achieve their employment goals through the use of free assistive technology resources.

The Future Ready project is in partnership between Oklahoma State University, Oklahoma ABLE Tech, and the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS). To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Bethany Navarro, Transition Program Coordinator, at bethany.potts@okstate.edu.

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

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

Amie Shivers is an Oklahoma native who serves as a visual services counselor in the McAlester office. She provides a range of vocational rehabilitation services to individuals who are blind and visually impaired across Pittsburg, Latimer, McIntosh and Haskell counties. She joined the DRS team in September 2022 as a rehabilitation technician and earned a promotion into a counselor position after earning her bachelor’s degree in 2025.

She works hard for people with disabilities and is highly respected by her peers and by the clients she serves. As a result, she is able to serve as the southeast regional representative for the DRS Diversity and Disability Services Committee.

After graduating with honors in her bachelor’s degree program and discovering her passion for serving people with disabilities, Amie began pursuing a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

She is deeply committed to her role in serving people with disabilities. When asked why she loves her job she answered, “What I enjoy most about my work is helping youth and adults recognize their strengths, overcome barriers, and achieve meaningful employment and independence. Every individual deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, and I am honored to play a small role in helping make that possible.”

Amie is a brilliant, passionate and committed professional helping advance opportunities for people with disabilities. We are lucky to have her on the team.

Image of Amie.

Amie Shivers
Visual Services Counselor

Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired

ph. 918-302-4200

Amie.Shivers@okdrs.gov

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

Renee Sansom Briscoe
rsansom@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-212-7789

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: 405-343-9762

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.