STEP Work Program

As your student enters Stillman Valley High School, the Transition Services part of the Individual Education Plan (IEP) becomes an important part of his or her program. Transition planning is provided to assist special needs students ages 14-22 in moving from high school to the real world. The special education staff and STEP coordinators work with students and families to examine various options including post-secondary education, community employment, continuing and adult education, community agency referrals, adult service, independent living and community participation. Employment outcome is one of the areas addressed to assist students in reaching their post-secondary goals. Stillman Valley's Special Education Department and the STEP Work Study Program are designed to help eligible students explore career or job related interests in a hands-on setting. Participants must currently have an Individual Educational Plan, IEP. Placement sites vary depending on the interests and goals of each individual student. The program utilizes supervision by Ogle County Educational Cooperative. Students have the opportunity to earn elective school credit and receive wages while working in the community or surrounding community. The program is designed to help eligible students explore career interests in a hands-on manner. Students are provided with an opportunity to make a more informed decision about their future career choices and to make the transition from the school experience to the work experience and/or post high school education/training.

Program Goals:

• Students will be better able to contribute to their transition plans as they prepare for adulthood.

• Students will develop employability skills

• Students will become involved in and better understand the working community.

• Students will be provided with practical work/career related experiences.

STEP Work Program - Student Employee of the Month

Each month, Stillman Valley High School, in conjunction with Ogle County Educational Cooperative, nominates one student who has shown outstanding performance and service to his or her employer.