Transition Fair offers vivid tableau of post high school options
IMPERIAL — A blueprint for students who receive special education services, presented a diverse array of tools to help build a pathway to employability at the 11th annual Transition Fair on the Imperial Valley College campus Friday.
The fair is presented in partnership between IVC, Imperial County Special Education Local Plan Area and the San Diego Regional Center. More than 300 students, challenged by auditory deficits to cerebral palsy from high schools across the county participated, noted Sylvia Lemus, employment developer for SELPA. “They get information focused on vocational training, employment and college opportunities,” said Lemus.
Leading a session on career technical education, Luis De La Torre, Imperil Valley Regional Occupational Program coordinator told students his curriculum focuses on CTE access in all high schools, family development and adult services to get them job ready and employer connections. CTE aims to get students ready for entry-level employment in medical and dental assistance, culinary arts or even security guard training.
“It’s not just about being a security guard but it’s a pathway to doing a lot more with your future career,” he said.
“CTE and college are not mutually exclusive. The two combine for a well-rounded education.”
Attending the Central Union High School Law Academy, Genesis Martinez thought the CTE session was really helpful. “I want to be a judge but not sure which sector, family or juvenile court,” said Genesis, “I’m thinking of going to San Francisco State because the first two years there is a lot cheaper.”
Cynthia Munguia, a resource special education English teacher, brought her seniors because some are already heading to IVC and hope to transfer to a four-year college. “It’s an eye-opener for students to learn about different options and know it’s something obtainable,” she said.
Yet it is never too early to begin looking for a career that may keep a worker engaged for 30 or 40 years, noted Stella Orfanos-Woo, IVC counselor in the Nursing and Allied Health program.
Nursing is a career that demands passion and it is more than about caring for people, but one must be good at working in teams, customer service, problem solving and good at asking questions.
“We only accept 24 out of 70 who apply,” she said. “But a C grade is not competitive enough for a Registered Nursing program. You must challenge yourself in high school so when you get to IVC you’re better prepared. It’s not just for the smart but does require a willingness to work really hard.”
Dannia Guerrero, a Southwest High School junior, remarked the nursing session helped her find out more about neonatal care and plans to attend IVC. “The only surprise was training could take seven years all together,” she said. “But touring the campus and getting familiar with the resources was great.”
Jeannine Enz, a SHS special education teacher, noted the fair was a good chance for students to inquire about financial aid and the disabled students programs and services colleges provide. “I hope the fair excites them more about college and gives them a reason to perform well in high school,” she said.
Added colleague Sandra Lopez-Temores, “All students should have awareness of options available upon graduation,” she said. “When their lives improve, our families improve and so does our nation.”