The type of vocational experience in which a student engages is entirely dependent on the individual education plan for that student and the resources of the family or outside agency available upon a student exiting special education.
If a family and student wish for the student to be competitively employed upon exiting, the staff will work to find a place of employment that matches the student’s interests and abilities, and the willingness and ability of the family, student, and or outside agency to support the position.
Just as in the real world, there is no guarantee of competitive employment during the time a student is at ATS or after they transition from ATS. The ATS staff help facilitate opportunities, but many factors outside the control of the school district determine if a student can be competitively employed.
Some families and students are only interested in volunteer activities. There are many opportunities in the Austin area for students to gain skills while giving back to the community through volunteer jobs. The student might attempt several different jobs to build skills during his/her time at ATS, but again, the ultimate goal would be to have volunteer opportunities that are sustainable upon transitioning from ATS.
Over the years, the ATS staff has worked to build community partnerships with both businesses and community service agencies. However, Eanes ISD is always looking for more relationships, and we encourage families to become actively involved in finding opportunities for their students.