Special Education Implementation Pillars
PaTTAN plays a critical role in the Bureau of Special Education’s systemic alignment* by delivering customized professional development and technical assistance aligned with four key Implementation Pillars—the core strategies for driving improvement: Attract-Prepare-Retain; Collaborative Partnerships; Post-School Outcomes; and Evidence-Based Practices. Through this coordinated approach, Pennsylvania strengthens educator capacity, fosters collaboration, and advances equitable opportunities for all students with disabilities.
The Outcomes and Targets for the Post-School Outcomes Pillar are listed below:
Outcome: Increase the number of students with disabilities entering competitive integrated employment
Targets:
- Extend educator training on career readiness, transition planning, and work-based learning
- Expand collaboration with employers and workforce development programs to provide internships, apprenticeships, and supported employment opportunities
- Increase use of assistive technology and workplace accommodations to support inclusive employment and independent living skills
Post-school outcomes refer to the various paths that students with disabilities take after leaving high school. These outcomes include higher education, vocational training, and employment.
Secondary Transitions:
- The transition process is a crucial period during which students with disabilities prepare for life after high school. This process involves developing individualized education plans (IEPs) that outline post-secondary goals, such as attending college, finding a job, or living independently.
- Transition services may include job training, independent living skills, and social skills training. These services are designed to help students develop the skills they need to succeed in the adult world.
The IEP Process:
- Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) are legal documents that outline the special education and related services a student needs to access an appropriate education.
- The IEP process involves collaboration between parents, educators, and other professionals to develop and implement an IEP that meets the student's unique needs.
- Transition planning is a key component of the IEP process, as it helps to ensure that students with disabilities are prepared for life after high school.
Increasing Graduation Rates:
- Strategies to increase graduation rates for students with disabilities include:
- Early intervention and identification
- High-quality instruction and support services
- Effective transition planning
- Family engagement
- Data-driven decision-making