What Are Transition Services and Planning?
Federal law requires that school districts plan for transition of students with disabilities to independent living, higher education, or employment after they finish school.
Transition services are provided to the student by the school district and other agencies, such as Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS).
What Is LRS and What Services Does It Offer?
LRS is a state agency that assists persons with disabilities to obtain or maintain employment.
LRS transition services include vocational guidance and counseling, vocational evaluation, instruction, community experiences, and other services as needed to achieve the employment goal. General LRS services may include assistance with college tuition or another training program, job placement services, assistive technology, rehabilitative technology, transportation, and mental or physical health assistance, as determined by a job goal and what is needed to reach this goal.
What Is LRS Required To Do?
LRS is required to perform outreach at schools, as well as complete the student’s Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) within 90 days of eligibility determination.
Who Is Eligible For LRS Services?
An applicant must have a physical or mental disability that results in a substantial barrier to employment, and must require vocational rehabilitation services to prepare for or secure employment. The student or parent can apply directly for LRS services by contacting the LRS regional office nearest them. All students with disabilities who are interested in employment should apply for LRS services. LRS will determine eligibility.
Who Participates In the LRS Planning Process?
The student and their LRS counselor must agree on a career goal for the student’s Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE). The student’s IPE is separate from their IEP (Individualized Education Plan). Various assessments may be done by LRS to determine the feasibility of an employment goal, as well as the services that will be needed to meet that goal. These services are also included in the IPE.
How Can Disability Rights Louisiana Help?
The Client Assistance Program (CAP) can assist with questions and concerns during a client’s application and services with LRS. CAP can also assist with appeals of eligibility denials, and other adverse decisions by LRS.
To contact CAP call 1-800-960-7705.
