How can KSD Outreach Help YOU?
How can KSD Outreach Help YOU?
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Student & Family Support Services Form
KSD Outreach has Educational Consultants across the state so when you're not on campus, we're close by! We can assist in providing specialized guidance in your area and connect you with local organizations and resources. Our support services include:
Consultation: Technical assistance for families and districts tailored to DHH student needs.
Assessments: Evaluations of academic, social, and communication needs.
Resource Lending Library: Access to books, technology, and educational materials.
Transition Events: Sessions like regional Transition Days to prepare students for life beyond high school.
Contact one of us with any questions you may have or to let us know how we can serve you! Once you find the Consultant nearest you, she can help with the specific resources in your area.
Let KSDO Help!
Let KSDO Help!
Transitioning from high school is a big step, but with preparation and the right resources, DHH students can thrive in their next chapter! Transition planning for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students is a critical step in ensuring their successful journey into adulthood. KSDO can help with navigating the process.
Transition Tips for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
Transition Tips for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
High School Students
High School Students
Preparing for life after high school can be exciting and challenging, especially for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students. "The goal of transition is to ensure students are prepared for life after high school. Transition planning should consist of small milestones like increasing self-advocacy skills and larger milestones like completing degrees or certifications and getting jobs. Transition goals are deeply personal and individualized — and often change over time." (National Deaf Center) These tips can help students navigate their journey toward independence and success in postsecondary education, the workforce, and beyond.
Preparing for life after high school can be exciting and challenging, especially for Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) students. "The goal of transition is to ensure students are prepared for life after high school. Transition planning should consist of small milestones like increasing self-advocacy skills and larger milestones like completing degrees or certifications and getting jobs. Transition goals are deeply personal and individualized — and often change over time." (National Deaf Center) These tips can help students navigate their journey toward independence and success in postsecondary education, the workforce, and beyond.
1. Develop Self-Advocacy Skills
Understand Your Rights: Learn about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act to know what accommodations you're entitled to in education, work, and public spaces.
Check out National Deaf Center's website for Accessibility Laws: Section 504, IDEA, and ADA
Practice Communication: Know how to request interpreters, captioning, or other supports you need in various settings.
Know Your Preferences: Understand whether you prefer ASL, spoken English, or other communication methods, and communicate that clearly to others.
Watch this video of real stories from other DHH students HERE!!
National Deaf Center's Self-Advocacy Toolkit!
2. Explore Career Interests
Get Hands-On Experience: Participate in job shadowing, internships, or volunteer opportunities in fields that interest you.
Work with a Transition Specialist: Collaborate with school or outreach professionals to identify career paths and set goals.
Get more information HERE!!
Learn Workplace Etiquette: Familiarize yourself with expectations like punctuality, teamwork, and how to navigate accommodations on the job.
3. Plan for Postsecondary Education
Research Schools and Programs: Look into colleges, technical schools, or training programs that offer strong DHH support services.
Secure Accommodations Early: Contact disability services at your chosen school to arrange for interpreters, CART (real-time captioning), or other supports.
Consider Financial Aid: Apply for scholarships specifically for DHH students or those with disabilities.
Check out our list of Scholarships and Financial Aid!!
4. Build Independent Living Skills
Practice Daily Life Skills: Learn to cook, manage money, do laundry, and use public transportation.
Use Technology: Explore apps or devices that can assist with organization, communication, and safety.
Create a Support Network: Identify friends, mentors, or community organizations you can rely on for advice and encouragement.
5. Strengthen Social and Emotional Skills
Connect with Peers: Join clubs, attend DHH events, or participate in programs like Deaf camps to build relationships.
Manage Stress: Practice mindfulness, seek counseling if needed, and find activities that help you relax.
Set Goals: Break long-term plans into smaller, achievable steps and celebrate your progress.
DID YOU KNOW?
Kentucky's Cabinet for Heath and Family Services has Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services!
Three community mental health center (CMHC) regions in Kentucky have specialized Deaf Mental Health Services.
Seven Counties Services has deaf staff who can provide therapy and case management directly in ASL. They also have a psychiatrist who has worked with the deaf community for more than 15 years.
New Vista (formerly Bluegrass) was the first Community Mental Health Center with a Deaf Services program.
Cumberland River Behavioral Health currently has one deaf individual providing targeted case management services.
6. Utilize Resources
Local and National Organizations: Groups like Kentucky School for the Deaf Outreach, the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), and Vocational Rehabilitation can offer valuable support.
Technology and Tools: Leverage apps, visual aids, and assistive devices for communication and accessibility.
Mentors: Connect with DHH professionals who can offer guidance and inspiration.
Check out all the links and resources below!!
Kentucky Career Center
US Office of Disability Employment Policy - Preparing Youth with Disabilities for the Workforce
National Deaf Center - Resources for Transition
NDC has developed a variety of resources and tools using evidence-based strategies to support transition planning for deaf youth.
Described and Captioned Media Program
DCMP provides a streaming library of accessible education videos, teaching tools, and professional development opportunities. We partner with educational content creators to provide high-quality captioning, audio description, and American Sign Language (ASL) translation.
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