Tuesday's Transition Tips for Teachers is a weekly email for teachers, administrators, parents, counselors, and vocational rehabilitation staff. "Tip" topics include quality and compliant Transition IEPs, transition assessments, drop-out prevention strategies, work-based learning, academic and life skill instruction, family involvement, working with Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation, and much, much more.How Community Rehabilitation Providers Support Student Success
Community Rehabilitation Providers (CRPs) are organizations that can deliver employment, independent living, and other services to individuals with disabilities. Some CRPs partner with schools, families, and state agencies to support transition planning and help students and young adults build the skills they need for successful community participation.
What Services CRPs Offer
For students preparing to leave high school, CRPs can offer job exploration services, work-based learning experiences, workplace readiness training, and self-advocacy instruction. These supports help young adults understand their strengths, explore career interests, and gain real-world experience that leads to competitive employment. Many CRPs collaborate with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) counselors to ensure students receive services.
CRPs may also provide job development, job coaching, skills training, supported employment, and ongoing support. Some providers also offer behavioral health services, independent living training, and access to community resources. These services help young adults secure and maintain meaningful employment while increasing independence.
Why Early Connection Matters
Educators play a key role in connecting students and families with CRPs early in the transition process. By understanding what CRPs offer, teachers and transition coordinators can help students build a strong bridge from school to adult life. Partnering with CRPs ensures students receive hands-on experiences, individualized planning, and long-term support that schools alone cannot provide.
Find a Provider Near You
Use the Indiana VR ES Provider Directory to find providers in various counties. You can also consult your state's VR office for a list of providers in your area.
Bonus Tips
Join UMass Boston’s Transition Leadership Program (TLP) to earn a National Transition Specialist Certification specifically designed for special educators, guidance counselors, and vocational staff. It is:
- Fully Online: Accessible to educators across the country
- Duration: 18 months
- Credentials: Leads to national certification (and the MA state endorsement)