The purpose of our Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Program is to provide students with disabilities the opportunity to experience and explore the world of work and help prepare them for the transition from high school to a post-secondary career path, which could include post-secondary education, training, or employment.

We help students make decisions about their career paths and create a plan for their future. Whether the participant is a student interested in learning about their first summer job, or an upper-level student planning their career path after school, providers offer a wide range of possibilities for students from 14 up until their 22nd birthday.

Pre-ETS providers focus on five core services to offer students during the program.

1.  Job exploration and counseling.

2.  Workplace readiness training.

3.  Work-based learning experiences.

4.  Counseling on post-secondary education or training.

5.  Self-advocacy and peer mentoring.

Every student is different, and there isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” solution. Pre-ETS providers work with each student to find what type of job or career path best suits them. Students can expect a three-tier approach from providers to help build job awareness and confidence.

Participants must…

• Have a documented disability (via an IEP, 504 or physician’s note),
• Are still in school (have not graduated from high school or are in an extended transition program in their high school), can be in Post-Secondary Education program, and,
• Are between the ages of 14-22.

Students should contact their Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor if they are interested in a Pre-ETS program. The counselor can assist with the application, develop an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and authorize payment.

Information about additional resources can be found at https://www.dshs.wa.gov/dvr.