Connecticut State Department of Education

CT Secondary Transition Youth Advisory Board (YAB)

What is the CT Secondary Transition Youth Advisory Board (YAB)?

As an initiative within the CT Secondary Transition Community of Practice (CoP), the YAB was created to provide a place for students and youth with disabilities, ages 14 to 26, to have their voices heard by the people who plan for students and provide them support.

What is the purpose of the YAB?

The YAB serves as a resource to any school district, agency, organization, or provider who serve young people with disabilities. The YAB works to improve services and ensure that services and supports provided are truly meeting the needs of youth with disabilities as they transition from district services to adult life. Participation in YAB activities builds the personal advocacy and leadership skills of participants, provides a forum for students to network with each other and professionals in the field, and is a great activity for resumes and portfolios.

Who are the members of the YAB?

YAB members include Connecticut students and youth with disabilities, ages 14-26, who have an interest in learning leadership skills and taking on leadership roles in the state. The YAB is facilitated and coordinated by Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC) Youth Coordinators.

When and where does the YAB meet?

The YAB meetings are held monthly over Zoom, with potential in-person opportunities for social events and advocacy presentations in the future. We understand that some YAB members may not be able to attend these scheduled meetings, so involvement with the YAB is flexible. YAB members can participate in a variety of ways including review of documents, offering opinions via email or social media, and informing policy and projects as needed.

The YAB currently has over 125 members who have participated through monthly YAB meetings, training and workshops, participation on youth panels, and working with CPAC Youth Coordinators.

How is the YAB different from the Special Education Youth Advisory Council (YAC)?

  • The YAB includes students and youth/young adults, ages 14-26, with a focus on secondary transition and beyond, the YAC includes students in middle and high school with a focus on special education experiences.
  • The YAB students and youth can sign up individually, the YAC is school/district based.

How can I get involved?

Please contact Michael Scanlon at mscanlon@cpacinc.org or call 860-739-3089 for more information Anyone can refer a student or youth/young adult to the YAB.

  • The YAB has a mailing list of over 300 students, youth, and youth allies. Sign up for the email.
  • Visit the YAB Students Resources page.
  • Visit the YouTube Channel YAB Playlist: @CTParentCenter or @CTYouthAdvisoryBoard.
  • Like us on Facebook: @CTYouthAdvisory and follow us on Instagram: @ct_yab.