Initiative Description
The Department of Human Services, Division of Disabilities and Rehabilitation Services provides transition services to students with disabilities. This division provides work readiness training for students ages 15-21 to prepare them to enter the workforce and pursue post-secondary opportunities. Through collaboration with the Virgin Islands University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (VIUCEDD) DRS delivered a virtual ten-week course to the students. Because of the CDC protocols to social distancing and the territory's mandates that limit in-person activities, classes were conducted virtually. VIUCEDD provided technical assistance to the director and information on AT devices that would aid and support students as they transition to the world of work, vocational training, or post-secondary education. This collaboration is ongoing as VIUCEDD will continue to provide leadership on virtual learning and assistive technology.
Lessons Learned/Replication
Students were exposed to assistive technology devices, equipment, and services. Student participants now possess knowledge on the types of AT available to support them as they enter the workplace or wherever they choose. They can now directly, and independently, seek additional information and services that are available, including training, access devices through the short-term loan program or through demonstration. This partnership has undoubtedly increased the awareness among the director, staff, and students of the Division of Disabilities of and Rehabilitation Services. It has expanded their reach and knowledge of the AT works to support successful transition in the workplace and beyond. The partnership is successful as VIUCEDD shared vision is to support an inclusive environment for individuals with disabilities, through advocacy, training, and capacity building. We wish we were able to expand our AT lab so we could serve as many persons as possible. This initiative will continue regardless of funding. To replicate this initiative there should be a process for needs assessment and continuous quality improvement.