Measurable Postsecondary Goals for Education outline students' learning plans after high school—whether that’s earning a degree, completing a trade program, taking community or enrichment classes, or pursuing self-directed learning—as long as the path aligns with their employment or independent living goals. Below are Education Options for students to consider:
4-year College or University /Undergraduate or Professional Degree:
Community or Junior College-Associates Degree
Virginia Peninsula Community College Trades Center (Vocational Trades)
Richard Bland
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
John Tyler Community College
Technical/Apprenticeship/Community College Certificate Program
Virginia Technical Academy (Vocational Trades)
Apprentice School (Vocational Trades and Leadership)
Virginia Peninsula Community College Trades Center (Vocational Trades)
New Horizon Apprenticeship and Adult Learning Center (Vocational Trades)
Tidewater Tech (Vocational Trades)
Reynolds Community College (Vocational Certificate Programs)
Tidewater Community College (Vocational Certificate Programs)
Riverside College of Health Sciences (Allied Health and Nursing)
Asher Institute of Hampton (Cosmetology, Barbering)
Adult and Educational Center (GED, ASL)
Fortis College
ECPI
Bryant and Stratton
Non-Credit College Courses/Programs
ACE-IT in College, an IHEAC-accredited inclusive postsecondary education program, provides a pathway to higher education for students with intellectual disability (ID) who do not meet the traditional college entrance criteria. It promotes inclusion and opportunities for students with ID at VCU. Enrolled students take courses that align with their career goals and have paid campus jobs and community internships to help prepare them for their chosen careers.
This program is able to provide federal financial aid as a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP)
The Mason LIFE Program is an innovative post-secondary program for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who desire a university experience in a supportive academic environment. The mission of the Mason LIFE Program is a dual purpose: the first is to provide a supportive academic environment for our students with intellectual and developmental disabilities; the second is to supply an apprenticeship for George Mason University students. This program is able to provide federal financial aid as a Comprehensive Transition Program (CTP)
Longwood LIFE is a two-year non-degree postsecondary certificate day program for individuals with ID who receive the applied studies diploma and can navigate two full days a week of classes around campus with supervision.
Landmark College
Military Service Academies
Military Service Academies
U.S. Military Academy (USMA): Located in West Point, New York, this academy trains cadets to become Army officers.
U.S. Naval Academy (USNA) Situated in Annapolis, Maryland, it prepares midshipmen for service in the Navy and Marine Corps.
U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA): Based in Colorado Springs, Colorado, this academy focuses on training future Air Force and Space Force officers.
U.S. Coast Guard Academy (USCGA): Located in New London, Connecticut, it educates and trains cadets to become Coast Guard officers.
U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA): Found in Kings Point, New York, this academy trains future officers for the merchant marine and the armed forces.
Military: Enlistment A Schools
Army- Army Training Centers
AirForce-Technical Training Centers
Marine Corp-Marine Corps Schools
Navy-Center for Security Officers
Air National Guard
Space Force
Short-Term Community Certificate Programs
YMCA
Library-Technology Classes
Self-defence, Art, and Dance programs
Day Support Program
Teaching vocational, community, and independent living skills
Momentum 360
Versability
Adult Education Program
Self-directed Learning
Reading books
Workbook
Studying printed guides
Tutor/Counseling
Speech Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Physical Therapy
Behavior Therapy
Academic Trainer
Wellness Trainer
Personal Assistant
WARNING: Indicator 13 ALERT Non-Compliant Goals: These errors will cause the PSG to be rejected for students who will be 16 or older during the given school year
states that the student does not want to go to college
not a postsecondary option that is listed above or realistic.
goal not supported by an assessment clearly defined in the "Assessment Summary"
goal not properly aligned with employment or independent living goal.
Incorrect name or pronoun used or copied from a template.
Inappropriate without clear activities to show effective movement possible toward goal.
Postsecondary Education Goal Resources
The best resource is typically vocational sites such as Occupational OUtlook Handbook because they identify the educational and training requirements as part of the job description. However, additional resources may include:
College Assessment
Level Up Virginia Virginians have a new tool to help them plan for their education after high school with a new website launched by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. The Level Up Virginia website provides information on educational options such as certificate programs, apprenticeships, the military, trade schools, two-year and four-year colleges, and universities. In addition, the website offers tips for adult learners, students with disabilities, first-generation students, and English language learners. Check out this statewide initiative to increase post-secondary readiness, enrollment, and completion for all students in the Commonwealth.
Transition of Students with Disabilities to Postsecondary Education: A Guide for High School Educators- A guide for teachers offered by DOE on standards and expectation of postsecondary institutions and how effective high school paperwork is critical to ensure student support transfer.
Big Future Plan for life after high school. Compare colleges. Explore career possibilities. Learn about financial aid and scholarships.
College Navigator is a free consumer information tool designed to help students, parents, high school counselors, and others get information about over 7000 …
Gear Up is an initiative is one of the largest and most effective programs focused on increasing the college and career readiness of low-income students in communities nationwide.
Community College Tuition Grant for Foster Care-This program will provide tuition and fees at any Virginia community college specifically for high school graduates or those who have received their GED if, at the time of graduation or completion of the GED, they were in foster care, in the custody of a social services agency or in a special needs adoption. This grant is based on financial need. For more information, click here.
Education and Training Voucher (ETV)-The Education and Training Voucher (ETV) Program assists eligible foster care and adopted youth with post-secondary education and training expenses. It is designed to help youth transitioning out of foster care with the education, training and services needed for employment. Program funds can be applied toward, but not limited to, colleges, universities, community colleges and one-year training institutions. Click here for more information.
Training Research Link - Training in this link is related more to education and preparing someone for training through a practicum, internship, mentorship, apprentice, or on-the-job.
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Sample Education Postsecondary Goals with Rationals:
These revised goals emphasize inclusivity and maintain clarity while aligning with postsecondary training opportunities tailored to individual strengths and interests.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will complete a certified nursing assistant (CNA) training program to gain the skills needed for a healthcare career at a vocational center.
Rationale:
This goal prepares the student for a healthcare career by focusing on specific job-related training. A CNA program provides hands-on experience and certifications required to enter the field.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will participate in an apprenticeship program to learn the skills needed to become a welder at the Newport News Shipyard.
Rationale:
An apprenticeship provides structured, on-the-job training and mentorship. This goal equips the student with the technical and practical skills necessary to succeed in a welding career.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will receive job-specific training through an adult service agency (DARS) to prepare for community-based employment.
Rationale:
For individuals who benefit from additional support, adult service agencies provide tailored training that builds the skills required for competitive employment in their chosen field.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will enroll in a culinary arts training program to develop cooking and kitchen management skills for a career in the food service industry at the FoodBank.
Rationale:
This goal focuses on preparing the individual for a career in food service through targeted training that develops both technical and creative skills in culinary arts.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will complete a certification program in forklift operation to qualify for employment in a warehouse setting.
Rationale:
Obtaining a forklift certification is a specific, short-term goal that prepares the individual for safe and effective operation of equipment required in warehouse jobs. A supportive training goal would be on the job training.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will attend a vocational rehabilitation program to gain workplace readiness skills and explore career options in customer service.
Rationale:
Vocational rehabilitation programs help individuals develop transferable skills and identify their strengths, preparing them for employment in industries like customer service. A job coach may assist in supporting a training goal.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will complete a driver’s education course to obtain their driver’s license and gain independence for commuting to work with Lewis Driving School.
Rationale:
Learning to drive is a critical skill for individuals planning to work in locations that require personal transportation. This educational goal supports independence and employability. A supportive training goal would be to practice behind the wheel with a parent or friend.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will participate in a technology certification program to learn skills for a career in IT support.
Rationale:
IT certifications are highly valued in the tech industry. This goal prepares the individual for entry-level roles in technology by focusing on targeted technical training. A complimentary training goal would be an internship or on-the -job training.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will take part in a cosmetology training program to learn hairstyling and beauty techniques for a career in the beauty industry.
Rationale:
Cosmetology programs provide hands-on, skill-based training for individuals interested in beauty careers. This goal ensures the individual gains the practical skills and certification required for the field. A complimentary training goal would be to intern and work under a professional in gaining the practicum hours needed for certification.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will enlist in the Army and attend BootCamp."
Rationale:
This is an example of a postsecondary goal appropriate for a student who plans to have a career in the military. Enlisting in the army and participating in BootCamp makes it an Education Postsecondary Goal. It should align to a specific career in the military and a training school for the same career to show alignment among all three goals.
Goal:
After exiting high school, student will complete professional development with employer in supervisory skills.
Rationale:
Many jobs do not require a formal education, but recognizing life long learning is real, professional development and professional organizations and unions should be introduced to all students.
Goal:
After exiting high school, I will participate in self-directed learning to develop skills in video production, editing, and content creation to establish and grow my YouTube channel.
Rationale:
This goal supports a student’s aspiration to pursue a self-directed career as a YouTube creator. It focuses on acquiring the necessary skills through independent learning, such as exploring online tutorials, participating in webinars, and practicing video production techniques. This approach allows the individual to tailor their learning to their specific interests and goals while building the foundational knowledge needed for success in content creation.
MPG (Expanded) for Education may also include what and what learning will occur
learn through Professional Development opportunities while on the job.
attain a certain grade point average (GPA) or academic standing while enrolled in __(where will the learning occur)__.
develop critical thinking, problem-solving, research, or writing skills while attending ___(where )__________.
participate in extracurricular activities or academic enrichment programs to broaden knowledge and experiences in __(where will the learning occur)____
achieving fluency or proficiency in a second language such as ASL online through __(where will the learning occur)___.
obtain relevant licenses, certifications, or credentials required for a (chosen career path) through a vocational center.
enroll, enlist, or apply for Americorps, BootCamp, and Non-credentialed College programs such as AceIt and MasonLife
complete a course of study at Wilson Workforce Development Center.
travel to Spain to engage in self-directed learning of Spanish customs and to enrich my bilingual skills.
engaged in self-directed learning to learn more about __________.
Registering to Vote
Health Care Providers
Community Transportation Options
Community Services
Community Activities
Self-care
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