2023 Transition Conference
Please join BLaST IU17 and the Pennsylvania College of Technology as we present the annual 2023 Transition Conference. We look forward to welcoming you to campus!
Contact
- Disability and Access Resources
- Bush Campus Center, Rm. 202
570.320.5225 TTY: 570.321.5528 - dar@pct.edu
About the conference
This event is open to Special Education High School students in grades 10-12 as well as parents, guardians, and other interested parties residing in Bradford, Clinton, Lycoming, Sullivan and Tioga counties. We will be providing speakers and breakout sessions on the following pathways: Postsecondary Education and Training, Employment, and Community Engagement.
8:15 AM - 2:30 PM
March
08
Registration
Plan ahead by exploring the Sessions and Pathways below before registering.
Registration is closed
Schedule & Transition Pathways
Choose the transition pathway that's right for you!
Overall Conference Schedule
8:15 - 9 AMCheck-In
9 - 9:10 AMWelcome
9:15 - 9:45 AMBlock 1Choose a pathway to view session options
9:55 - 10:25 AMBlock 2Choose a pathway to view session options
10:35 - 11:20 AMBlock 3Choose a pathway to view session options
11:30 - NoonBlock 4Choose a pathway to view session options
Noon - 12:30 PMLunch
12:40 - 1:25 PMKeynote Speaker
1:35 - 2:20 PMStudent/Parent Panels
2:20 - 2:30 PMSurvey Collection and Closing
Anthony Ferraro was born blind with a genetic condition called Lebers Congenital Amaurosis. Hear about his amazing trajectory into the Paralympics and his passion as a musician.
Anthony Ferraro
2023 Transition Conference Keynote Speaker
Vendor Space
Explore the variety of services, resources, and opportunities available at our conference Vendor Space! Each participant will select a designated block to visit the Vendor Space during registration.
A program for the Pennsylvania Department of Health supporting Families and their Children with special health care needs by conducting assessments and coordinating connections to community resources.
Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Act program helps people with disabilities explore the tools and technology they need to be independent for school, work, or life in the community.
Empowering people with all disabilities by providing: Resources, Options, and Disability-related Services needed to Obtain individual Freedom in their lives
Providing vocational rehabilitation services to help persons with disabilities prepare for, obtain or maintain employment.
Our mission is to provide students with disabilities a variety of work-based learning experiences that will allow them develop into independent, well-skilled employees who are prepared to join the work-force.
Assisting people with intellectual disabilities to acquire, maintain, and improve the skills necessary to live in their community. General areas of focus may include self-care, home management, participation in community functions, use of community resources and more.
An employee-centric division of Hope Enterprises that stresses employee welfare through hiring and accommodating each person’s abilities. Our team works to create an equal opportunity environment that provides the benefit of integrated employment.
Disability and Access Resources at Penn College encourages qualified students with disabilities to fully participate in all college programs, activities and services. Students with disabilities can rely on the support of Disability and Access Resources to determine and develop plans for reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments and/or auxiliary aids and services that promote access.
Serving individuals ages 14-24 throughout Bradford, Sullivan, and Tioga counties, our concentration is on career and educational development, work readiness training, and work experience placements. Our services can support young adults who are in pursuit of pinpointing a career pathway to educational and/or employment opportunities.
Committed to contributing insightful recommendations that will improve, strengthen, and help expand services for students with special needs.
Penn College is a national leader in applied technology education. We will be here to answer questions about our Admissions process, majors, and more!
Williamsport's premiere Community Theatre for the past 45 years, we believe everyone belongs on stage, including YOU! We offer The Penguin Project and Spotlight Program, productions specifically designed for artists with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and other neurological disorders.
The largest free residential education and job training program for young adults ages 16–24. We connect you with the skills and education you need to get the career you want!
Assisting individuals of all ages with cognitive and/or physical impairments to maximize integration and independence in their home, community, school and/or workplace by empowering each person to identify strengths and to compensate for challenges.
A Pennsylvania State university (as a part of Commonwealth University) that offers an inclusive postsecondary education program for students with an Intellectual Disability.
Program supporting individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism residing in Lycoming or Clinton County. Services are person centered, intended to meet the specific needs of the individual allowing them to achieve an Everyday Life.
Customized Work Experience program (CWE) for anyone 14 and older looking for employment in Bradfrod and Sullivan Counties. Our Transition to Work (T2W) program is geared towards students and young adults, who want to learn about different types of jobs available in their community.
Provides a variety of services in your own community utilizing your individual strengths. We would like to help you build on your talents to help you attain the future that you desire!
Pennsylvania Treasury - Savings account program for individuals with disabilities through the Bureau of Consumer Programs.
Providing the Bridges to the Future program, helping school-aged youth determine where their interests lie as they work towards their goals for after graduation. There are many beneficial activities available such as job shadows, paid internships, and a camp about STEM careers where you get money for participating!
A statewide nonprofit organization that helps individuals with disabilities and older Pennsylvanians get assistive technology making it possible to live independently, go to work and school, communicate, play, and be active in their communities. This technology can be life-changing; our goal is to help people get it, working one-on-one to identify and navigate funding resources for these devices.
Learn about and utilize a variety of devices that support your transition. You'll have the opportunity to explore 20/20 pens, talking clocks, magnification & voiceover software, smart home assistants, an HTC Vive Pro VR headset, and more!
Proud sponsor of this year's Transition Conference. An elder care and special needs law firm, offering clients Special Needs Planning and Guardianship services with offices in Williamsport, Wyalusing, and Wysox, PA. Special Needs Planning can occur at any point during life; however, early planning helps ensure that essential public benefits are not jeopardized. Important legal matters to consider: appointment of guardian(s), setting up Special Needs Trust, creating an ABLE account, maximizing SSI/SSDI benefits, filing Medial Assistance for Workers with Disability (MAWD) and more.
Providing Community Participation Supports, Self Directed Living, Residential and Life Sharing Programs in Clinton and Lycoming Counties.
Postsecondary Education and Training Sessions
Students interested in additional education or training
- All attendees must choose the Vendor Space as one of their sessions
| The Essentials of Building Relationships | Do you know the characteristics of healthy relationships and how to identify issues in relationships? Find out these answers along with how to manage conflict and communicate in constructive ways. |
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| Introduction to OVR | Join us for an informational session on the Pre-Employment Transition Services offered by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). |
| Value of Volunteerism | Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about engaging in volunteerism - an exciting, growing, and enjoyable experience. Discover some of the benefits to volunteering include serving a cause, practicing ideals, working with people, and solving problems. |
| #CollegePrep: Tips for Students with Disabilities | Obtain advice from College professionals on the differences in rights/responsibilities of students with disabilities from high school to college, the process to request accommodations/supports, and the importance of incorporating self-advocacy skills along the way! |
| Penn College Admissions – Everything You Need to Know | Get an overview of Penn College, the admissions process, and what our students are like. Bring your questions for an open Q&A at the end. |
| Financial Aid - The Basics | Learn how to apply for financial aid and understand the different types of financial aid that may be available to you. |
| Financial Literacy for College Students | Understand the difference between credit/debit cards, learn how to save money, and understand the topics of overspending, budgeting, and how identity theft can occur. |
| Campus Tours | Join us for a fun and interactive tour of the Penn College campus. |
| Opportunities With Today's Military | An overview of the employment, career opportunities, and benefits available by serving in any of the United States Military branches, including non-military contractors. |
| Independence Through Assistive Technology | We will share information on what AT is and what it can be used for at work, at home, and in the community. Gain an understanding of the lending library which allows you to "try before you buy," as well as other AT funding sources. |
| Career Exploration – Check Out Your Options | Students will discuss the importance of finding the right career direction by a guided exploration and identify ways they can explore careers independently. |
| Effective Study Skills for College | Students are often surprised to find that college exams require more than just memorizing terms and definitions. Join us to learn more about critical thinking strategies to apply and analyze course material. You will also learn new study skills to train your brain to effectively take exams at the college level. |
| Center for Independent Living - Overview of Services | Roads to Freedom Center for Independent Living empowers people with disabilities by providing resources, options, and disability related services needed to obtain individual freedom in their lives. Join us for an overview for how we can help. |
| PA CareerLink and Bridges to the Future Program | The Bridges program supports transition-aged youth to determine where their interests lie: helping toward their goals after graduation, be it work, college, the military, etc. Learn more about job shadowing, paid internships, and a camp geared towards STEM careers where you get money for participating. |
| Jobcorps Information Session | Learn more about the largest nationwide residential career training program in the country that has been operating for more than 50 years! The program helps eligible young people with training for meaningful careers and assists them with obtaining employment. |
| Using Time Productively for School, Work and Life | If all the traditional advice you've been given to help you manage your time has been less than helpful, please join us to discuss some more non-traditional methods to get focused, stay on task and get things done. |
| What is Assistive Technology and How to Fund It | Many everyday items can be assistive technology. Learn more about what AT is, including how smart home technology can be AT, and how to fund the devices that you want. |
| Sleep: Why You Need It & How to Get It | The amount of sleep we get each night affects how well we learn, manage emotions, compensate for disabilities, fight disease, and more. Come learn more about this vital aspect of our daily lives and how to manage it successfully. |
| Maximizing Your Professionalism and Resources | During this session, you will be exposed to resources and ways to advocate for yourself, all while being professional and communicating effectively. You will leave polished with professionalism! |
| Vendor Space | Visit over 25 local agencies and organizations in our community that are available to support as you look to meet your Transition goals. Don't forget to stop by the Mobile AT Trailer to try out various devices. All participants must choose the Vendor Space as one of their sessions. |
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Employment Sessions
Students interested in going straight to the workforce
- All attendees must choose the Vendor Space as one of their sessions
| ADA: Accommodations in the Workplace | This session helps to define what the ADA is and how it's applied in the workplace. It will review who qualifies, discuss requesting accommodations, what a reasonable accommodation is and the interactive process. |
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| Apprenticeship and Pre-Apprenticeship | Learn about Apprenticeship and how it's changing the way people gain the skills needed to be successful in growing industries. Information about Pre-Apprenticeship, how it's changing the way HS students learn about jobs and industries will also be shared. |
| The Essentials of Building Relationships | Do you know the characteristics of healthy relationships and how to identify issues in relationships? Find out these answers along with how to manage conflict and communicate in constructive ways. |
| Introduction to OVR | Join us for an informational session on the Pre-Employment Transition Services offered by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). |
| Value of Volunteerism | Participants will have the opportunity to learn more about engaging in volunteerism - an exciting, growing, and enjoyable experience. Discover some of the benefits to volunteering include serving a cause, practicing ideals, working with people, and solving problems. |
| Center for Independent Living - Overview | Roads to Freedom Center for Independent Living empowers people with disabilities by providing resources, options, and disability related services needed to obtain individual freedom in their lives. Join us for an overview for how we can help. |
| PA CareerLink and Bridges to the Future program | The Bridges program supports transition-aged youth to determine where their interests lie: helping toward their goals after graduation, be it work, college, the military, etc. Learn more about job shadowing, paid internships, and a camp geared towards STEM careers where you get money for participating. |
| Opportunities with today's Military | An overview of the employment, career opportunities, and benefits available by serving in any of the United States Military branches, including non-military contractors. |
| Independence Through Assistive Technology | We will share information on what AT is and what it can be used for at work, at home, and in the community. Gain an understanding of the lending library which allows you to "try before you buy," as well as other AT funding sources. |
| Transportation Pathways to Independence (Lycoming County) | Transportation is often a barrier to employment and other opportunities for service. This session will describe transportation resources available in Lycoming County. |
| Career Exploration – Planning Your Future | Students will discuss the importance of finding the right career direction by a guided exploration and identify ways they can explore careers independently. |
| Jobcorps Information Session | Learn more about the largest nationwide residential career training program in the country that has been operating for more than 50 years! The program helps eligible young people with training for meaningful careers and assists them with obtaining employment. |
| Career Exploration - Check Out Your Options | Students will discuss the importance of finding the right career direction by a guided exploration and identify ways they can explore careers independently. |
| Using Time Productively for School, Work and Life | If all the traditional advice you've been given to help you manage your time has been less than helpful, please join us to discuss some more non-traditional methods to get focused, stay on task and get things done. |
| What is Assistive Technology and How to Fund It | Many everyday items can be assistive technology. Learn more about what AT is, including how smart home technology can be AT, and how to fund the devices that you want. |
| Vocational and Community Adjustment Program - VCAP | VCAP is a structured treatment program helping participants recognize, accept, and adapt to challenges in order to achieve vocational and life skills goals. Learn about our activities including music, peer support, and skill training. |
| Sleep: Why You Need It & How to Get It | The amount of sleep we get each night affects how well we learn, manage emotions, compensate for disabilities, fight disease, and more. Come learn more about this vital aspect of our daily lives and how to manage it successfully. |
| Using Time Productively for School, Work and Life | If all the traditional advice you've been given to help you manage your time has been less than helpful, please join us to discuss some more non-traditional methods to get focused, stay on task and get things done. |
| Maximizing Your Professionalism and Resources | During this session, you will be exposed to resources, ways to advocate for yourself, all while being professional and communicating effectively. You will leave polished with professionalism! |
| Vendor Space | Visit over 25 local agencies and organizations in our community that are available to support as you look to meet your Transition goals. Don't forget to stop by the Mobile AT Trailer to try out various devices. All participants must choose the Vendor Space as one of their sessions. |
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Community Engagement Sessions
Students interested in engaging within their community
- indicates a session geared toward parents/guardians only
- indicates a session geared toward students only
- All attendees must choose the Vendor Space as one of their sessions
| Skills Summer Work Program (Lycoming County) | Informational session and discussion on the Skills Summer Work Program for students transitioning from High School to the world of work in Lycoming County. |
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| Introduction to OVR | Join us for an informational session on the Pre-Employment Transition Services offered by the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). |
| Accommodations | Join us for a discussion on what accommodations are. Do I need them, and how do I get them? |
| Broadening your Horizons: Pursuing an Inclusive Postsecondary Education | This session will provide an overview of an inclusive, non-degree certificate program for students with an intellectual disability interested in pursuing postsecondary education at Lock Haven University. In addition, it will provide information on how to prepare for the college search and application process. |
| Legal Concerns in Transitioning to Adulthood | Parents/guardians will learn about the legal tools an individual with special needs and their family have available, including essential estate planning documents such as: Power of Attorneys, Guardianships, Special Needs Trusts, Third-Party Trusts, and ABLE Accounts. SSI & SSDI and MAWD will also be discussed. |
| Navigating the System | Navigating the Intellectual and Developmental Disability system for transition age students can be a confusing process. This session will provide parents/guardians insight and answers on how to do so successfully. |
| Center for Independent Living - Overview of Services | Roads to Freedom Center for Independent Living empowers people with disabilities by providing resources, options, and disability related services needed to obtain individual freedom in their lives. Join us for an overview for how we can help. |
| Become a Superstar – Featuring Drums Alive | Get hands on and get your body moving with a sample Superstars class featuring the Drums Alive curriculum. Designed especially for individuals with special needs, the class is an opportunity to make friends and have fun! |
| PA CareerLink and Bridges to the Future program | The Bridges program supports transition-aged youth to determine where their interests lie: helping toward their goals after graduation, be it work, college, the military, etc. Learn more about job shadowing, paid internships, and a camp geared towards STEM careers where you get money for participating. |
| Using Time Productively for School, Work and Life | If all the traditional advice you've been given to help you manage your time has been less than helpful, please join us to discuss some more non-traditional methods to get focused, stay on task and get things done. |
| What is Assistive Technology and How to Fund It | Many everyday items can be assistive technology. Learn more about what AT is, including how smart home technology can be AT, and how to fund the devices that you want. |
| PA ABLE | This session will provide an overview of PA ABLE savings accounts and the countless benefits that these accounts offer for those with disabilities. |
| Vocational and Community Adjustment Program - VCAP | VCAP is a structured treatment program helping participants recognize, accept, and adapt to challenges in order to achieve vocational and life skills goals. Learn about our activities including music, peer support, work strategies, and skill training. |
| Understanding Remote Supports and AT | Assistive Technology and Remote Supports enhance the lives of individuals with Developmental Disabilities each and every day. Learn how services work and how to bill for these services while checking out a live demonstration as well! |
| Sleep: Why You Need It & How to Get It | The amount of sleep we get each night affects how well we learn, manage emotions, compensate for disabilities, fight disease and more. Come learn more about this vital aspect of our daily lives and how to manage it successfully. |
| Transportation Pathways to Independence (Lycoming County) | Transportation is often a barrier to employment and other opportunities for service. This session will describe transportation resources available in Lycoming County. |
| Vendor Space | Visit over 25 local agencies and organizations in our community that are available to support as you look to meet your Transition goals. Don't forget to stop by the Mobile AT Trailer to try out various devices. All participants must choose the Vendor Space as one of their sessions. |
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