Important Links

Classroom Links

AM Google Classroom Link (25-26 school year)

PM Google Classroom Link (25-26 school year)

Adult Services

Adult Services for Transition

The Charting the LifeCourse framework was created to help individuals with disabilities and their families develop a vision for a good life, think about what they need to know and do, identify how to find or develop supports, and discover what it takes to live the lives they want to live. The framework is the keystone for supporting a community of learning that champions transformational change through knowledge exchange, capacity building, and collaborative engagement. There is a lot of great information on this website. Charting the LifeCourse also offer free monthly webinars to help begin to think about transition and preparing for the many facets of the transition to adult life. Charting the LifeCourse Focus on Transition to Adulthood: Quick Guide PDF

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation- Transition to School to Work Services

High school students with disabilities who require vocational guidance for competitive employment should be referred to the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR). Referrals are suitable for students with an Individualized Educational Program (IEP), a 504 Plan, or those involved in a school's Student Assistance Program. Ideally, referrals should be made two years before graduation, although earlier referrals are possible when necessary. Students with visual impairments can be referred to the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services at any time. Additionally, technical assistance for transition can be provided to students with disabilities at any age without a formal referral.

PA Career Link- Applying for Disability Services

Montgomery County Office of Developmental Disabilities (ODD)- Applying for Adult Waiver Funding

Registering a child with the Office of Developmental Programs provides access to Targeted Support Management (TSM), a valuable service aiding individuals in envisioning and planning their future lifestyles. TSM facilitates access to necessary medical, social, educational, and other services, aiming to uphold individuals' rights to everyday life through Person Centered Planning and Self-Determination principles. However, it's important to note that registration does not ensure services and supports, as their availability depends on fund availability, except for Supports Coordination. There are specific requirements for registering for adult services through Montgomery County, depending on the child's disability. These services commence after the young adult's 21st birthday, if they qualify. It is imperative that children and young adults with intellectual disabilities and autism apply for adult waiver funding. You can apply at any point during childhood and adolescence, before the age of 21.

Financial Services and Special Care Planning for Individuals with Disabilities

Bruce Sham has dedicated his financial services practice of over 40 years to working with families with children with special needs. His mission is to help families navigate through the difficult process of accessing resources and valuable government benefits for their children. Bruce works closely with the ACTIVE Academy students and families at Abington Senior High School, providing them with valuable guidance and support. Additionally, he provides specialized care for clients, addressing common financial concerns such as seeking advice and help with Social Security (SSI), Special Needs trusts and guardianship, handling matters related to family members' passing, and planning for individuals with special needs. Bruce's practice emphasizes ongoing support through life's changes and highlights the importance of preparing for the financial well-being of loved ones with disabilities.

There are many post-secondary programs that are designed for college-aged students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Here are two local ones to explore:

REAL Certificate at Arcadia University

The REAL Certificate offers students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities the opportunity to participate in a post-secondary academic-, vocational- and social inclusion-focused program. Applicants will have received extensive special education services in their secondary schools and are not able to access college by meeting typical entrance criteria.

Integrative Studies Program at Gwynedd Mercy University

Integrated Studies at Gwynedd Mercy University is a student-centered, inclusive post-secondary program for individuals aged 18-26 with intellectual disabilities. This program is designed to provide excellent opportunities in education, career development, and social participation within an inclusive academic setting. Integrated Studies strives to create a community that cultivates self-determination, service, self-efficacy, and lifelong learning.