Question:

I am currently a principal of an alternative school. Because of reduction in force, I am being placed in a position as Transition Specialist. What are the qualifications for this position?

Answer:

Good question. Your current position is administrative; does this mean you are making a lateral move to a Transition Specialist Coordinator (TSC) or as someone who reports to a TSC? Transition Specialists are also referred to as Vocational Specialists. A Transition Specialist’s responsibilities are usually district specific. Many districts do not have people in this position. Since I have limited information on your job title, I will list some general descriptions for the job:

• Works collaboratively with secondary high school teachers in the development, implementation and assessment of transition plans
• Identifies appropriate job sites for students in all special education programs
• Assists teachers in providing skills training for students on specific work behaviors
• Assists teachers with placement of students on jobs in the school and community
• Monitors students on job sites
• Prepares, maintains data and files reports on individual students work behaviors
• Identifies appropriate community resources to assist students in overcoming employment barriers
• Maintains high expectations for student outcomes
• Uses program evaluation data to provide information to the Special Education Program Manager
• Participates in multidisciplinary collaboration/consultation, e.g., teaching staff, parents, and school districts
• Actively involved in career path planning
• Implements vocational training programs for students
• Provides direct service to students
• Performs other duties as assigned

Visit this Internet web site by the DIVISION ON CAREER DEVELOPMENT AND TRANSITION for additional information: http://www.dcdt.org/pdf/trans_educators.pdf