Who operates the School to Employment Program (STEP)?
STEP is a service of Community Options, Inc., a national nonprofit organization incorporated in 1989 and headquartered in Princeton, New Jersey, with offices across several states. Community Options develops housing and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. We believe that all persons, regardless of their level of disability, can and should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination.
What is STEP?
Developed in response to the youth employment rate for individuals with disabilities, the School to Employment Program (STEP) is a job training/transition program for high school students and young adults with special needs. STEP provides students with transferable vocational education and relevant social skill development as part of their Individualized Education Program (IEP), improving future opportunities for competitive employment and/or post-secondary education. STEP will provide students with real world, hands-on training through a unique opportunity to explore a number of different career paths. We assist school districts in fulfilling their obligations by providing a program that facilitates the successful implementation of required transition services. Programs are customized to fit the needs and preferences of those participating.
What is STEP 21?
STEP 21 is a prevocational and community inclusion program for individuals with special needs who have transitioned out of the education system. STEP 21 provides adults with disabilities transferable vocational and relevant social skill development, improving future opportunities for competitive employment. It provides a foundation for job exploration and on-site job training skills.