The AERO Cooperative’s Transition Services Program is dedicated to aiding students enrolled in both AERO and member district programs, providing pre-vocational and vocational training for individuals with disabilities aged 14 through 21. A continuum of support services is tailored to students’ individual needs and skill levels, with collaboration among AERO administrators, district special education administrators, and high school pre-vocational counselors.
Currently supported by the DRS STEP (Division of Rehabilitation Services Secondary Transitional Experience Program) grant and the CCW (Cook County Works) grant, the program serves approximately 175 students through competitive and supported employment services. Job placement efforts include student interviews, interest inventories, job referrals, application assistance, and post-interview follow-ups with potential employers. Businesses participating in the program range from Panera Bread and McDonald’s to Walgreen’s, Jewel Foods, and various others.
In addition to competitive employment, AERO job coaches provide pre-vocational training at Pride program, covering employment discussion groups, specific career exploration, subsidized and unsubsidized work experiences, work competencies training, and the development of positive work attitudes and habits. Classes emphasize the importance of establishing a good work history, including obtaining references from teachers and employers, clean background checks, and drug testing.
Job training services, facilitated by AERO’s six full-time job coaches, include transportation services and on-site coaching. Job training locations such as the Midway Hotel Complex, Christ Hospital, St. Xavier University, Bennigan’s Restaurant, and The Patio Restaurant offer students valuable experiences in various departments. Success stories highlight students securing employment at these locations after graduation.
Moreover, the Transition Services Program assists students with independent living, community integration, and access to community-based services. Linkages are provided to parents and students to access services like supplemental income, medical coverage, independent and sheltered living arrangements, summer programming, and respite services as students transition beyond high school.
The success of these programs is a testament to the collaborative efforts of AERO Transition Services staff members and district pre-vocational coordinators. They continuously strive to articulate services that effectively meet the unique needs of students and families from the four member high schools, fostering positive outcomes and long-term success for program participants.
