Are students required to fill out a new release form each year to receive services?

No. Once a parent/guardian/student has signed a permission form and been approved for services the permission extends from one year to the next.

What happens if students have not yet turned in a release?

Pre-ETS Specialists may not work with any student who has not turned in a release. Students in a classroom who do not have a signed release may not participate in Pre-ETS activities. All students in the class are encouraged to sign a release. Teachers can assist by promoting Pre-ETS services and encouraging completion of the release.

How long may the Pre-ETS Specialist work with a student?

Pre-ETS may begin at 14 and continue until the student graduates, has an open case with Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), or no longer requires the service.

Can Pre-ETS Specialists work with high school seniors? I thought only VR worked with seniors?

Yes. Pre-ETS Specialists can work with high school seniors who have an IEP or 504 plan, are potentially eligible for VR services and have a signed consent/release form. Services may continue until the student graduates or opens a case with VR.

What is the Teacher/School’s responsibility in off-campus Job Shadows?

The teacher/school is responsible for arranging student transportation on the agreed upon date, as well as providing a school staff member to attend the job shadow experience with the students. The Pre-ETS Specialist will schedule job shadow dates, communicate with the job site, and attend the job shadow whenever possible.

Can the Pre-ETS Specialist get a student a job?

The summers prior to a student’s final two years of high school the Pre-ETS Specialist can refer students to the VR Summer Work Experience. During the student’s senior year, the Pre-ETS Specialist may refer them to VR for potential employment services. While the Pre-ETS Specialist may sometimes share job leads, the focus is on giving students the tools to effectively seek employment.

Can high school students work with a Pre-ETS specialist if they already have a part-time job?

Yes! Students benefit from support in all Pre-ETS areas while they have a job in high school. They can focus on communication and problem-solving skills, research careers and areas of training for after high school, practice job-related skills, and identify ways to advocate for themselves at work and at school.

Does the specialist provide Pre-ETS to students individually or in groups?

Pre-ETS specialists serve students individually, in small groups or in whole classrooms based on student/school needs. School conference rooms or libraries make great meeting locations when a classroom is not available.