From Pre-ETS to VR Services – the How and Why
From our partners at the Indiana Secondary Transition Resource Center at IU is this handy resource on “The How and Why of Pre-ETS and VR”. This one-page document gives a quick overview of both pre-employment transition services (pre-ETS) and ‘traditional’ VR services and how the 2 can work together for the benefit of students with disabilities. Happy reading!
From Pre-ETS to VR Services – the How and Why
Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) are two of the
strongest tools in the special education professional’s toolbox. Let’s see how these programs can
help your students.
What is Pre-Employment Transition Services?
Pre-ETS helps students with disabilities by providing services such as job exploration, work-based
learning, workplace readiness, self-advocacy instruction, and info about postsecondary training
options. VR funds Pre- ETS, as a supplement to what a school provides.
Any student from 14–22 years old with an IEP or 504 plan can receive help from Pre-ETS, whether or
not they have applied for or been found eligible for VR services.
The services offered by Pre-ETS are available in all Indiana counties; review this listing to see
which provider offers services in your school.
. . . but don’t stop there!
What are VR services?
While Pre-ETS provides a needed start in the transition to adulthood, students with disabilities
should also apply for VR services. Why? Because VR can provide many individualized services for
students after high school, including:
• vocational guidance and counseling,
• job placement assistance,
• job training,
• tutors and note-takers, and
• rehabilitation technology.
These are just a few examples; VR allocates services based on individual need.
With student/guardian permission, teachers can help students access VR services by:
1. inviting the VR counselor to the student’s case conference their junior and senior years,
2. referring the student for VR services no later than the last semester of their exit year, and
3. ensuring students apply as a part of their IEP Transition Services and Activities or as a
part of their Pre-ETS services before exiting high school.
Refer any student to VR who you think might benefit. It is up to VR to determine whether they are
eligible and what services they will receive.
Resources
Working with Indiana VR Fact Sheets in English and Spanish Local VR Offices Directory
