Question:
My daughter has learning disabilities. She graduated high school this year and now I don’t know how to guide her should she get a job. I have many questions, what kind of job is best for her, should she go to college, what would be a good career path or should she participate in a program for adults with that offers independent living skills and enrichment classes? How do I advise her on the right path for her?
Answer:
Where the child should go or plan to go should be determined and guided by the transition plan developed as part of her IEP in high school. The school transition specialist or coordinator can put the parent in touch with outside agencies to help determine an appropriate path and supports for her after college. Discuss with her daughter what she wants to do and use the results from transition assessments done at the school to guide her decisions and placement options. Vocational Rehabilitation in your local county should also be contacted to assist in working with your family and help to make you aware of localized options.
Analisa Smith, Ph. D. | Professor, Education, Strayer University
Analisa L. Smith has served LDA for many years, being active at the national and state level. Smith has served on the Advocacy, Marketing, Affiliate Support/Membership, and Mental Health/Juvenile Justice Committee and is currently Chair of the Early Childhood Committee. She is President of LDA of South Carolina and has served in several positions on the State Executive Board of Directors. Smith has worked for 20 years in the public and private education. Dr. Smith is a full time education professor and subject matter expert for Strayer University and consults for Understood. Smith holds a B.S. in Elementary and Special Education from Columbia College, a M.Ed. in Education from the University of South Carolina, and a Doctorate of Education in Education Administration from Nova Southeastern University. Smith is the author of Transition Toolbox, a book that focuses upon transition issues and services for the mildly disabled individual. She is the mother of two children, with one son having Asperger’s and several learning disabilities. Smith’s passion is to work with LDA to promote advocacy and support for individuals with LD to ease the path of learning for them.
