2026 Next Steps Conference & Resource Fair

Next Steps Conference Sessions

Session Schedule

The final schedule and list of presentations is still under construction, but the sessions will be offered at the following times:

9:30-10:20 AM: Conference Session 1

10:30-11:20 AM: Conference Session 2

11:30 AM-12:20PM: Conference Session 3

Overview of Developmental Disabilities Waivers: Staff from the Hanover CSB will share information about the DD Waiver process, including who should apply, where to apply, what the waiver provides, and more.

ABLE Now accounts were established under the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act and authorized states to establish tax-advantaged savings programs. Learn more about how to open an ABLE Now account, what expenses can be covered, and how to maximize the savings for your student.

PEATC (The Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center) will present "Turning 18 in Virginia." This workshop will help families to understand all of the changes that occur when students turn 18 and how to prepare for those changes, including considering decision-making options.

The Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services offers a wide variety of resources and support for families of students wtih disabilities. This conference session will provide an overview of those resources, including supports to help young adults to live independently.

What is a Transition IEP?

Hanover County staff will explain how the transition IEP supports students as they prepare for life after high school.

Project SEARCH

Learn more about the Project SEARCH program, including what pre-requisite skills are important for students to have and what they can expect from participating in Project SEARCH.

Planning for Secondary Opportunities

Hanover County staff will share information about the opportunities for students available in high school, including Cooperative Work-Based Experiences.

From Now to Next: What families need to know NOW to plan for what's NEXT

Hanover County Preschool and Elementary Staff will help families to identify critical decision points and how to encourage their child's growing independence as they begin planning for transition at any age.

Community Connections

Visit the Resource Fair area to hear representatives from community agencies and organizations share information about their services and how families can get connected! Hear from The Arc of Hanover, Hanover Parks and Recreation, The Autism Society of Central Virginia, the Virginia Down Syndrome Association, Jacob's Chance, and the Center for Family Involvement.

I'm Determined

A team from the I'm Determined Center at James Madison University will be presenting three workshop sessions at this year's Next Steps Conference! Read more about their sessions below.

Visit the I'm Determined website for more information about the IMD Center: https://imdetermined.org/

Building Student Voice: Tools for IEP Participation

Join the I'm Determined team for an engaging session that turns adult led IEPs into student‑empowered participation. We’ll cover three I’m Determined Elements—Choice Making, Self‑Advocacy, and Self‑Awareness—and link each to the I'm Determined Student Rubric for IEP Participation. Learn real strategies from an I’m Determined Youth Leader from Hanover and staff that families and teachers can use to help students prepare, speak up, and own their IEPs. Perfect for anyone ready to shift from supporting to empowering.

Building Goals That Matter: Self-Determination in Action

Spark meaningful goals—together! This session for families and teachers breaks down three I’m Determined Elements — Decision‑Making, Goal‑Setting & Attainment, and Self‑Efficacy — and connects each to the I’m Determined Goal Plan. Learn from an I’m Determined Youth Leader from Hanover and staff how to help students set meaningful goals, stay motivated, and celebrate real progress.

Building A Good Day: It’s More Than Just Self-Regulation

Bring the fun to build better days! This session for families and teachers dives into three game‑changing I’m Determined Elements—Problem Solving, Self‑Regulation, and Internal Locus of Control—and shows how they power the I’m Determined Good Day Plan. Hear directly from an I'm Determined Youth Leader from Hanover and staff as they demonstrate how to identify what a good day looks like, use practical strategies to tackle bumps, and keep students in charge of their own success.

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