WORKABILITY
Special Education
Patricia Marks
Department Chair
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WorkAbility
This formal vocational program for Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District students with special needs entered its first year in the winter of 1985. WorkAbility provides vocational assessment, vocational counseling, pre-vocational activities and training, job placement and future planning for students ages 16 through 22. Each year WorkAbility serves approximately 80 students.
WorkAbility is a major component of transition planning from education to the world of work. The program assists in gaining employment for students with special needs in local businesses within Santa Monica and Malibu. Funding is provided by the State Department of Education. A prime factor of acceptance to the program is motivation on the sudent's part and a willingness to learn good work behaviors. These students will receive appropriate training, both in the classroom and on the job. They soon work independently in the community to the best of their ability. Some students also volunteer in addition to their paid position to gain additional experience. Student trainees receive minimum wage in compliance with Federal Standards for not more than 100 hours of training before a business hires the student. The District covers Workers Compensation while the students are training within the school program.
WorkAbility staff works closely with businesses to assure success of the students in training. Interest, aptitude, and demonstrated ability are monitored while the student is trained. A goal of WorkAbility is to capitalize on the successes of the student. Staff also works closely with the Department of Rehabilitation and Regional Center, two agencies assisting special needs students. These agencies provide resources and expertise for unduplicated and a more cost-effective service delivery to students. It is a unique partnership in which wer are proud to participate.
Through this program special education studens are gaining the critical job training and experiences necessary to become contributing members of our community.