State Policy/Initiative

Wisconsin Transition Readiness Grant Program (2018)

“Thirty-seven school districts across Wisconsin will receive funding through the Transition Readiness Grant Program starting this month. Based on Wisconsin’s Let’s Get to Work grant project, the program was created in order to strengthen services for students with disabilities who are transitioning from school to the workforce, or continuing their education. For students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), a defined transition plan is a key indicator in the Wisconsin State Performance Plan – a plan focused on improving the outcomes of children with disabilities.

This program is an important step in improving and expanding services for our students with disabilities,” said State Superintendent Tony Evers. “It is particularly crucial to ensuring that every student in Wisconsin graduates high school with the necessary skills and supports to succeed in the workforce and in further education…

A program example is Project SEARCH, provides a variety of internships for students with developmental disabilities during their last year of high school. Students are immersed in multiple skilled internships throughout the year while receiving support from their school, a vocational agency, and a disability services agency. Students work with mentors to craft and update career plans. Around 75% of participants are employed upon their completion of Project SEARCH.”