Academics

Career & Transition Services

Preparing Students for Life After High School
The Career & Transition Services (CTS) Department supports students in preparing for life after high school. Through individualized planning, career exploration, work-based learning, postsecondary preparation, and independent living experiences, students develop the skills and knowledge needed to work toward their future goals.

List of 6 items.

  • Career & Transition Services for Students

    Transition planning is a collaborative process where students, families, school staff, and community partners work together to identify each student's strengths, interests, preferences, needs, and goals.
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  • Transition Planning & The IEP

    In New York State, transition planning for students with disabilities begins no later than the first Individualized Education Program (IEP) that will be in effect when the student turns 15, or earlier when appropriate. 

    Transition planning is reviewed annually and is based on the student's strengths, preferences, interests, and needs. The IEP includes measurable postsecondary goals in the areas of:
    • Education and Training
    • Employment
    • Independent Living, when appropriate
    Transition activities and services are identified to help students work toward their post-high school goals. Students are encouraged to actively participate in the transition process, develop self-advocacy skills, and take increasing responsibility for planning their future.
  • Career Development & Occupational Studies (CDOS)

    The Career Development & Occupational Studies (CDOS) Commencement Credential recognizes a student's preparation and readiness for entry-level employment.

    Students earning the credential through CDOS Option 1 complete requirements established by the New York State Education Department, including:
    • A Career Plan
    • Demonstration of the CDOS Learning Standards
    • At least 216 hours of Career and Technical Education (CTE) coursework and/or work-based learning
    • At least 54 hours of those hours in work-based learning
    • An Employability Profile
    The CDOS Commencement Credential alone is not a high school diploma. It may be earned as a stand-alone exiting credential or in addition to a Local, Regents, or Regents with Advanced Designation diploma. CDOS may also be used as an approved graduation pathway when applicable.
  • Adult Agency & Community Connections

    Connecting students and families with appropriate agencies before leaving high school can help support a successful transition into adulthood. Career and Technical Education (CTE) provides information, referrals, and assistance with connections based on each student's individual needs and eligibility.
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  • Community & Employer Partnerships

    COMMUNITY & EMPLOYER PARTNERSHIPS
    Career and Transition Services partners with businesses, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, colleges, and community organizations to provide students with meaningful career and work-based learning experiences.
     
    Community partners can support our students by providing:
    • Internships and work experiences
    • Job shadowing
    • Workplace tours
    • Career presentations
    • Mentoring
    • Mock interviews
    • Workplace training
    These partnerships give students opportunities to explore careers, develop real-world skills, and learn directly from professionals.
     
    Interested in Partnering With Us?
    Businesses and community organizations interested in hosting students or partnering with our programs are encouraged to contact the Career and Transition Services Department.
     
  • Resources for Students & Families

    RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS & FAMILIES
    Helpful transition resources include:
    • New York State Education Department (NYSED) – Graduation requirements, transition planning, and CDOS information
    • ACCES-VR – Vocational rehabilitation and Pre-Employment Transition Services
    • NYC Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD) – Summer Youth Employment Program
    • OPWDD – Services for eligible individuals with developmental disabilities
    • Helen Keller National Center (HKNC) – Services for individuals who are DeafBlind
    • College Accessibility Services – Postsecondary accommodations and accessibility
    • Financial Aid & Scholarship Resources – Financial planning for postsecondary education

Additional Information

Contact Career & Transition Services 
Have questions about transition planning, graduation, work-based learning, SYEP, college and career planning, or adult services?

Contact:
Mary Beth Clark
Career & Transition Services Coordinator
E-mail: mbclark@lexnyc.org
Phone: 917-832-1337

Students, families, employers, and community organizations are encouraged to contact us for additional information. 
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