Thinking College in High School

Academy New and Exciting Transitions (NExT) is a summer transition program for students with disabilities funded by Idaho State Department of Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Students spend one week on the ISU campus to participate in job exploration, career counseling, interview skills with the simulated environment/avatar, self-advocacy, independent living skills, community integration, and college life. Students will learn to budget, experience college classes, learn to use technology to support note taking, use of Livescribe pens, Chromebooks, and iPads, tour campus, meet disability services.

June 10-14, 2019

SOLE, Selkirk Outdoor Leadership and Education is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to provide outdoor education programming. For the past two years, SOLE had partnered with Lake Pend Oreille School District and the Idaho Division of Vocational Rehabilitation to offer a tailored program for students that qualify for Vocational Rehabilitation services throughout Idaho. Students spend five days and four nights learning skills that will lead to successful employment. Students are exposed to jobs that focus on environmental science and participate in hands-on activities that teach scientific and ecological principles.

Tools for Life is a secondary transition conference for students with disabilities, families, and secondary transition professionals. The event is presented as a typical professional conference with national keynote speakers and breakout sessions. In order to make the Fair more accessiblie to students and families across Idaho, Tools for Life travels around the state between Northern Idaho, Boise, and Pocatello. The 2020 Tools for Life Fair will be held in Pocatello.

Vandal Summer Academy is a NO COST residential program for high school students with disabilities, age 15-21 - including those with IDD, interested in pursuing post-secondary education. During the Vandal Summer Academy students spend one week on the University of Idaho (UI) campus to experience college life, learn how to take notes in college, access disability support services, understand financial aid, learn independent living skills, etc. Download the 2019 VSA Application PDF - due date for submission is May 3, 2019.