What is Supported Employment for Students with Special Needs

IntroductionWhen students with special needs reach a certain age, they can be exposed to employment opportunities after vocational assessment has been complete. There are three options; Competitive employment, supported employment and sheltered workshops. This is the first in the three-part series which addresses supported employment. Two aspects must be considered when confronted with vocational decisions--finding a job and keeping a job. The student may require little or no help with one or both aspects, or he or she may require a great deal of help. As we have seen, help with finding a job comes from the school system, in partnership with the vocational rehabilitation agency.