8th grade - 12th Grade Services

The DPSCD Central Office Transition Team is responsible for ensuring the compliant and timely implementation of transition plans/ services via the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students aged 14 and older.  The team encourages a  

Student  Centered  Approach to assessing student interest, abilities, experiences and goals across several domains to create a holistic plan for student transition to adult life through the design of a coordinated set of activities for students with disabilities.  The team utilizes   a results- oriented process that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement  of the child with a disability to facilitate the child’s transition from school to post- secondary education, vocational education, integrated employment, continuing and adult education, adult education services, independent living or community participation.   The team supports students teachers and parents of students grades 7-12 by providing training, Professional Learning Community (PLC) support and in-servicing, collaboration with MRS and other community agencies, employment partnerships with DTE energy- PROJECT SEARCH and the City of Detroit GDYT summer employment program.  

Post-Secondary Services

The Charles R. Drew Transition Center is a unique post-secondary vocational center for young adults diagnosed with autism, moderate to severely cognitive impairments, visual impairment, hearing impaired, physical impairment, and/or other health impairments. The Transition Center, which serves post-secondary special education students ages 18-26, is a one-of-a-kind center-based educational facility that has created a continuum of services for students with disabilities.  We believe that the transition process is best experienced through authentic life training and real-world connections. Students are prepared for the world of work and to become productive citizens with the necessary skills that will increase their quality of life. Programs are divided into three cohorts based on age.  Drew Transition Center offers Work Skills in-house vocational classes that prepares students for the Work-Based Learning Program. 

The Essential Skills Institute (ESI) prepares young adults with high-incidence exceptionalities, ages 18-26, for 21st century workforce success and independence. Essential skills are developed through individualized transition planning and collaboration with the participant, family, school, and community partnerships. Upon completion of the ESI program, participants will have developed personalized skills to become viable, employable, and contributing citizens. Transition services are centered around a coordinated set of activities for participants within an outcome-oriented process, highlighting active participant involvement, family engagement, and cooperative implementation of transition activities. The ESI is committed to promoting equal post-secondary opportunities for adolescents and adults with exceptionalities.