Pre-college

National testing services are required by law to provide reasonable accommodations, and most have information on their websites about how to document a disability and request accommodations. However, students and their advocates must get all documentation prepared well in advance. The review of required forms and notification of approval or denial of accommodations for national exams can take several months.

Background

Joe is a high school sophomore who is legally blind. He can see shadows and bright colors and discern letters and numbers with large print and bold fonts.

National testing services are required to provide reasonable accommodations, and most have information on their websites about how to document disabilities and how to request accommodations. However, students must submit documentation well in advance.

Advise teens that they need to start exploring their career interests and developing their job skills now! In today's competitive job market, it is essential that everyone possess skills and relevant job experience that will set them apart from others. Work-based learning experiences can help teens focus their career interests and develop job skills.

For more information, consult the video and publication Learn and Earn: Tips for Teens.

Taking classes in science, technology, and mathematics in high school, transitioning to college, and participating in work-based learning activities, are a few of the important steps toward a career in a computing field. Educators, parents, and other advocates can help students with disabilities reach critical junctures by providing mentor and family support, promoting the use of technology, engaging students in activities designed to develop self-determination and computing interests, and offering internships, research experiences, and other work-based learning opportunities.

Getting to college involves thoughtful preparation. It is important to start as early as your sophomore or junior year in high school.

Parents of youth with disabilities have unique opportunities to promote their successful transition to postsecondary education, employment, and full adult participation in society. Families can assist in the transition process by providing adolescents with direction in their exploration of interests, guidance in career and college planning, and encouragement as they pursue their dreams. Parents can provide the foundation for young people to become self-determined, to learn decision-making skills, and to gain access to resources.

To maximize success in college, encourage students with disabilities to do the following:

The DO-IT Scholars program is designed to help prepare high school students with disabilities for college and challenging careers, such as those in science, engineering, mathematics, and technology. It promotes the use of computer and networking technologies to increase independence, productivity, and participation in education and employment.

The DO-IT Pals program is an online community for middle and high school students with disabilities who are interested in college and challenging careers. The program includes frequent electronic mail and personal contact with Mentors and other DO-IT Pals. Mentors are college students, faculty, and practicing engineers, scientists, and other professionals, many of whom have disabilities themselves.