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DARS PRE-ETS and Referral Procedures

What is DARS & DRS?

• The Division of Rehabilitative Services (DRS) is a division of the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS).

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• DRS works together with students, youth, families, schools, community agencies and organizations to provide services that promote successful transitions from school to work and adult life.

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• DRS offers two sets of services to help students with disabilities move from school to post-school life: pre-employment transition services (Pre-ETS) and vocational rehabilitation (VR) transition services. 

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Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)��

• Pre-ETS offer students with disabilities an early start at career exploration and preparation for adult life.

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• Beginning at age 14 (9^th grade), students with disabilities can connect with DARS for Pre-ETS.

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• DARS works with students, their families, their schools and community partners to enrich transition planning and support students with gaining knowledge and experiences necessary so they may make informed decisions about their future.

Definition of a Student with a Disability (SWD)

• A student with a disability is defined as an individual age 14 to 21 (22 if still in secondary education), in a secondary, postsecondary or other recognized education program and an individual with a documented disability. Includes current students with a 504 and IEP.

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• A student with a disability is an individual between the ages of 14 through 21. However, a student with a disability may be age 22 if the student is enrolled in a recognized education program and has not yet had their 22nd birthday before September 30.

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Pre-ETS Services:

• Job Exploration Counseling: Explore career interests and foster motivation.

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• Work-Based Learning Experiences: Use the workplace to gain knowledge and skills that connect school experiences to career opportunities.

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• Counseling on Educational and Training Options: Learn about postsecondary education and training opportunities and resources.

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• Workplace Readiness Training: Prepare for adult life by developing social and independent living skills.

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• Instruction in Self Advocacy: Learn how to effectively communicate your needs and direct your life.

What’s Needed to Receive Pre-ETS?

• A need for one or more of the services.

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• Pre-Employment Transition Services Information Release & Consent form signed by parent, guardian or adult student.

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• Documentation identifying the student is between 14 and 22 and is receiving special education (IEP) or related services or is an individual with a disability, for purposes of Section 504.

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• Documents specific to a vendor/ school system-HCS or additional vendor release form may be required.

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When Do Pre-ETS Services End?

• Pre-ETS end when the student no longer has a need for services, is no longer interested in or available to participate in services or the individual no longer meets the definition of a student with a disability.

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If a student is exiting or graduating and will need services afterwards, students should be encouraged to apply for VR services.

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VR services are more complex and can start while one is still a student with a disability versus an adult with a disability.

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For more on VR (Adult) Services, click here

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