Career And Self-Advocacy Program

The Career and Self-Advocacy Program was created in an effort to support educators with implementing early planning strategies of postsecondary options for students with mild to moderate disabilities. Funded by the Department of Education, the program began in 1999 both at Kent State University and at local middle and high schools. The course consists of the use of content enhancement materials, self-advocacy strategies, life-centered career education, and transition planning for students with ages ranging from 14 thru 21.
         The program was developed around three themes: postsecondary options, self-awareness and advocacy, and goal setting and IEPs. These themes disseminate from ten course questions, listed below, that are asked to each participant before and after the program to gauge their knowledge base and subsequent progress:

1	Why do you need a program about careers and self-advocacy?
2	What are some postsecondary options after high school?
3	What are careers?
4	What is a disability?
5	What is advocacy and why is it important?
6	How is high school different from college?
7	Why is it important to know your rights and responsibilities?
8	What are disability laws that protect your rights?
9	What is the purpose of the IEP?
10	How can you advocate for yourself when there is a conflict?