Illinois School for the Deaf

The Career Development Center is located in the Career Education and Technology Center . Through programs and staff, students can explore various career paths to aid them in making informed career choices. In junior high, a student begins to identify possible career interests. This progression begins in the classroom with instruction to gain awareness of the academic, technical and personal skills required by various occupations. This process continues into high school as staff provide integrated programs to enhance a student's transition out of high school. All staff work toward the same goal-preparing ISD students for future jobs, post-secondary education or training, living arrangements, support services, etc. Personnel are located in one place to coordinate services and collaborate on ideas.

Evaluation Services

Student interests and skills are assessed, and staff work with students to determine what kinds of jobs, training or college programs in which students are interested. This information is provided to others in the Career Development Center who can plan appropriate job placements or other transition services. Career Portfolios are housed in the Career Development Center and have samples of student work related to what careers they are interested in pursuing, a resume and a plan of action for their high school and post secondary years.

STEP/Co-op program

The Secondary Transitional Experience Program (STEP) and the Cooperative Education (co-op) program provide students with academic, vocational and occupational courses. In their junior year, students can be placed in on-campus job experiences after interviewing. With continued success, they are placed off campus. During the senior year, students can be placed off campus. They earn a wage, have the opportunity to get raises and high school credit for working during the school day.

School to Work (STW)

This program provides real-life learning experiences by placing students in off-campus jobs (for a wage) during after-school and weekend hours. Students also visit various businesses to learn about various occupations through job shadowing experiences.

Transition Services

These services help students to enroll in post-secondary education/training programs, seek employment and/or independent living upon completion of high school.

Office of Rehabilitaiton Services (ORS)

Beginning in the 10th grade, the Jacksonville ORS rehabilitation counselor for the deaf (RCD) works with individual students and their home area RCDs. They offer assistance with local and home adult service providers, employment and training opportunities.