For many students, the transition from high school to the working world can feel uncertain. For students with disabilities, that transition often comes with even more questions: What kind of job is right for me? What support will I need? How do I get started?
That’s where Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) play a powerful role.
At Via, our School-to-Work Transition Services are designed to meet students where they are, helping them explore careers, build skills, and prepare for meaningful, independent community employment. Through individualized support, hands-on experience, and strong community partnerships, students gain the confidence and tools they need to succeed beyond graduation.
Via partners with students, families, schools, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) to create personalized employment plans tailored to each individual’s strengths, interests, and goals. From career exploration and workplace readiness to resume building and job coaching, every step is designed with the student’s future in mind. [vianet.org]
A Personalized Path: Meet Stephanie
Stephanie, a student at Northampton High School, is one of many young people benefiting from Pre-ETS, but her story stands out as a powerful example of what’s possible when the right supports are in place.
Stephanie expressed an interest in working with children in a daycare setting, so her Via team helped her explore that interest through a placement at Lehigh Children’s Academy, an inclusive daycare in Upper Macungie.
There, Stephanie is gaining real-world experience in a child care setting, from learning how to support young children and assist staff, to understanding the structure and responsibilities of the workplace. With ongoing guidance from Via’s employment specialists, she is evaluated regularly, builds new skills, and takes on additional responsibilities as her confidence grows.
Just as importantly, Stephanie is proving – to herself and to others – that her physical disability does not define her potential. With the right environment and support, she is thriving.
More Than Work Experience
While Stephanie’s placement is a key part of her journey, Pre-ETS goes far beyond a single worksite.
Via’s approach is deeply individualized. Students receive one-on-one attention from experienced staff who help them navigate everything from job exploration to applying for services and benefits.
This can include:
- Identifying strengths, interests, and career goals
- Participating in job shadowing or paid work experiences
- Learning workplace behaviors and expectations
- Building resumes and practicing interview skills
- Applying for OVR services and understanding available supports
- Connecting to long-term resources like housing, transportation, and community supports
The goal isn’t just to place someone in a job, it’s to build a strong foundation for long-term success and independence.
Preparing for What Comes Next
One of the most impactful aspects of Pre-ETS is how it helps students and their families navigate what can often feel like a complex and overwhelming system after high school.
By starting early, students develop not only job skills, but also self-advocacy, confidence, and a clearer sense of direction. They begin to see what’s possible for their future and take active steps toward it.
For Stephanie, that means exploring a career in child care with growing confidence and capability. For others, it may mean discovering new interests or career paths they hadn’t considered before.
In every case, the journey is unique, but the goal is the same: meaningful, independent community employment and a fulfilling adult life.
A Future Full of Possibility
Stephanie’s story is still unfolding, but her progress so far is a testament to what Pre-ETS can achieve. With each new skill she masters and each responsibility she earns, she is building a path toward independence and a future filled with possibility.
At Via, we are proud to support students like Stephanie as they take these important steps. Because when young people are given the opportunity to explore, learn, and grow, there is no limit to what they can accomplish.
