Your teen has a bright future ahead. Graduation is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. The Connecticut Bureau of Rehabilitation Services (BRS) helps graduates with disabilities to navigate what comes next. Whether your teen is finishing high school, college, or a training program, BRS is available to provide employment support. Here are the answers to your most important questions.
What are the stages of support?
BRS provides different types of support depending on where students are on their journey:
Level Up Program: The BRS Level Up Program works with students ages 16-22 who have an IEP or 504 plan. This program focuses on job exploration, work-based learning, and preparing for life after high school.
Transition Services: As students prepare to graduate, BRS provides transition counseling to help them move from school to work, college, or training programs.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services: After Level Up or Transition Services, graduates can continue with BRS for adult rehabilitation services. These services help with job placement, career advancement, and other employment support.
Not every graduate is ready to jump into work immediately. BRS understands that each person moves at their own pace. The length of support and the type of support depend on each person's needs and goals.
Ready to learn more? Fill out our contact form to connect with a BRS counselor today.
What happens after high school graduation?
After high school graduation, students with disabilities have several paths they can choose. BRS helps them transition from school to their next step with the following services:
- Job Placement: BRS helps graduates find jobs that match their skills and interests.
- College Support: BRS connects graduates with disability services offices and partners that helps them succeed in college.
- Training Programs: BRS guides graduates toward programs that teach the skills they need for specific careers.
- Work-Based Learning: Graduates can gain real work experience while learning on the job.
What about graduates from college or training programs?
BRS also supports graduates who finish college or training programs. These graduates may need help with:
- Finding Their First Job: BRS helps connect recent graduates with employers in their field.
- Resume and Interview Skills: Graduates learn how to present their skills and experience to employers.
- Workplace Accommodations: BRS helps graduates understand what accommodations they can request at work.
Employment support does not end when education ends. BRS continues helping graduates build successful careers.
Ready to Get Started?
The first step is connecting with BRS. Even if your child worked with BRS during high school, they should reconnect after graduation to discuss their next steps. A BRS counselor will meet with your graduate, create a plan, connect to resources, and provide ongoing support as they move forward.
BRS is here to help your graduate explore options, build skills and confidence, and reach their work goals.
Take the first step today. Contact us by filling out our form and a counselor will reach out to your family.