Your child has a bright future ahead. The Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) helps students with disabilities build the skills and confidence they need for life after high school. Whether your child dreams of college, career training, or entering the workforce, BRS is here to help them succeed. Here are answers to your most important questions.
What is employment support for students with disabilities?
Employment support means helping students with disabilities learn job skills and plan their future careers. Through the Level Up Program, BRS starts working with students as young as 16 years old. This early start gives students more time to explore different jobs, learn workplace skills, and make plans for after high school.
The goal is simple: to help students find meaningful work that matches their interests and abilities.
Why does early engagement matter?
Starting early makes a big difference. When students begin working with BRS at age 16 or 17, they have more time to:
- Explore different types of jobs
- Try real work experiences
- Learn what they're good at
- Build job skills step by step
- Plan for college or job training
Think of it like learning to drive. You don't wait until the day you need a car to start practicing. The same is true for job skills.
Ready to learn more?
Fill out our contact form to connect with a BRS counselor today.
What is post-secondary education guidance?
Post-secondary education means any learning that happens after high school. This could be:
- Community college
- Four-year college
- Job training programs
- Certificate programs
- Apprenticeships
BRS Level Up counselors help students and families understand all these options. They explain what each path looks like and help students choose what's right for them. Not every student needs to go to college, and that's okay. BRS helps find the right fit for each person.
How does BRS work with students?
BRS partners with students, parents, and schools to create a team. Everyone works together to help students succeed. Here's what BRS provides for youth:
Career Exploration: Students learn about different jobs and what skills each job needs.
Work Experience: Students get real jobs where they can practice workplace skills and earn money.
Skills Training: Students learn important skills like communication, problem-solving, and time management.
College Planning: Counselors help students think about education after high school and apply for programs.
Self-Advocacy: Students learn to speak up for themselves and ask for what they need.
When should my child start working with BRS?
We recommend that students start working with our Level Up Program two years prior to exit from the school system. However, the Level Up program can support students ages 16 - 22.
What happens after my child finishes high school?
BRS doesn't stop helping when high school ends. The transition from high school to adult life is an important time, and BRS provides transition services to help students make this change successfully.
Transition services help students move from school to work, college, or training programs. These services include:
Continued Counseling: Your child keeps working with their BRS counselor who helps them adjust to new challenges and opportunities.
College Support: If your child goes to college, BRS can help them find accommodations, connect with disability services offices, and succeed in their classes.
Job Placement: If your child goes straight to work, BRS helps them find jobs that match their skills and provides support as they learn their new role.
Skills for Adult Life: BRS teaches important life skills like managing money, using transportation, and communicating with employers or professors.
Long-Term Support: Even after your child starts working or attending college, BRS is available to help with any new challenges should the need come up.
The goal is to help your child become independent and confident in their chosen path. Transition services make sure students don't face these changes alone.
Ready to Get Started?
Employment support for students with disabilities begins with a conversation. BRS counselors are ready to meet your family, answer your questions, and start building a plan for your child's future.
The next generation of workers includes your child. BRS is here to help them get ready.
Take the first step today.
Contact us by filling out our form and a counselor will reach out to your family.