Career & Transition Services
Empowering Students for Success: Loudoun County's Career and Transition Services
Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) is committed to ensuring that all students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are well-prepared for life after high school. Our Career and Transition program offers a comprehensive range of services and opportunities to help students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen career paths and live independently.
High School Support
Transition teachers and job coaches work collaboratively with Special Education teachers to provide personalized support and guidance to students aged 14-22. This includes:
Individualized Transition Plans: Develop tailored plans to address each student's unique goals and needs.
Student Support: Guide students in career exploration, college preparation, and independent living skills.
Community Experiences: Collaborate with staff to secure business partners and support students in the community to benefit from work experience and/or Community Independence Instruction.
Connections to Community Agencies: Collaborate with students and families to identify and connect with community agencies that can provide ongoing support and services after high school graduation or reaching the end of eligibility.
A Collaborative Approach
The Career and Transition team works closely with businesses and community organizations to create meaningful partnerships that benefit students. We invite businesses to collaborate with us by providing presentations to students, job shadow opportunties, work experience, training opportunities, or paid employment positions for our students.
Post-High School Programs
For students aged 18-22 who require additional training and support, LCPS offers two post-Applied Studies Diploma programs:
Community and Schools Together (CAST): This program provides real-world experience and skill development in a variety of community settings. Students work with transition teachers and job coaches to learn workplace readiness, independent living skills, and more. CAST offers approximately 50 placements each year. Applications are due in the spring.
Project SEARCH: This intensive one-year program, offered in partnership with DARS, provides on-the-job training and experience at a local business. Students must be eligible for competitive employment to qualify. Applications are typically due by March 1st.
By providing these comprehensive services and fostering strong community partnerships, LCPS is empowering students with disabilities to reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. Should you have questions regarding Career and Transition Services, want to become a business partner, or collaborate in some way, please contact Jenna Arndt (Special Education Supervisor for Transition), Suzanne Burch (Transition Specialist) or Sarah Hendricks (Transition Specialist) at (571)252-1011.
In addition to the information provided above and linked below, please join our Transition Schoology Group for Parents using this code: 6DC8-4X4D-4J8JH. Should you need assistance, here are INSTRUCTIONS TO JOIN
Please see the following additional resources:
VDOE Secondary Transition Services for Students with Disabilities
VCU Center on Transition Innovations
Wilson Workforce and Rehabilitation Center
Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS)
Department for the Blind and Vision Impaired (DBVI)
Loudoun County Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Developmental Services
VDOE Transition Assessment Booklet