Pathways to Independence: A Transition Podcast

Where We've Been, Where We're Going — A Season One Finale

Season One of Pathways to Independence was built on a simple belief: that the educators and specialists doing transition work every day have something worth saying and that the field is better when those voices are in conversation with each other. Jamie Kain brought that belief to life when she created this podcast, and this finale is a fitting close to the season she built. In this episode, Jamie sits down with incoming host Juan Treminio for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about what transition planning is really for and where the field too often gets it wrong. They dig into the independent living component that gets skipped, the difference between self-advocacy as a checkbox and self-determination as a practice, how family expectations and student voice can pull in opposite directions, and why going door-to-door to local businesses to create vocational opportunities is still one of the most powerful things a transition team can do. Juan also shares a preview of what Season Two will look like: a deeper focus on interagency collaboration, with guests from the Department of Rehabilitation, Regional Centers, and community employers who have worked directly with students with disabilities. This episode also marks a transition of its own. Jamie is passing the hosting reins to Juan Treminio, Program Specialist in Transition Services at El Dorado County Charter SELPA, who will carry Pathways to Independence into Season Two. To Jamie: thank you for building something that matters. To our listeners: Season Two is coming.

Adult Transition - Clayton Valley - Patrick Gaffney

In this episode of Pathways to Independence, Jamie Kain of El Dorado County Charter SELPA speaks with Dr. Patrick Gaffney, Director of Student Services at Clayton Valley Charter High School, about their unique transition program for students with IEPs aged 18-22. Dr. Gaffney shares the development and success of their adult transition program, emphasizing the importance of community partnerships, family engagement, and an adaptable, innovative approach. The conversation highlights the logistics, challenges, and achievements of the program, offering insights for other schools looking to implement similar initiatives. How can schools maintain the connection between the everyday activities of the ITP and the goal of independent adulthood for students?

Social Emotional Supports for Transition

In this episode of the Pathways to Independence podcast, Jamie Kain, Program Specialist for the El Dorado County Charter SELPA, discusses the importance of social-emotional supports for students with IEPs as they transition to adulthood. Joined by Sean Andrew, Program Coordinator of Student Wellness, they explore the challenges, solutions, and best practices in supporting these students. Sean shares his experiences from working in special education, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed practices, mental health services, and seamless transitions between school and adult care. They also discuss the pivotal role of families and the importance of professional development for educational staff. • Mental Health and Transition: Exploring the need for appropriate social-emotional supports and the integration of mental health services into IEPs. • Addressing the "Service Cliff": Highlighting the need to create a seamless bridge between school services and adult mental health supports to ensure continuity of care. • School Strategies: Practical steps for schools, including integrating life skills into the curriculum (stress management, self-advocacy), expanding peer mentorship, and staff training

Family Involvement in Transition

In this episode of Pathways to Independence, Jamie Kain from El Dorado County Charter SELPA and Alyssa DiFilippo from Parents Helping Parents discuss the essential role families play in transitioning students with disabilities to adulthood. Alyssa shares her personal journey and professional expertise, highlighting the importance of early transition planning, collaboration between schools and agencies, and the resources provided by Family Empowerment Centers (FECs). They explore the critical need for building trust with families, educating them on services, and working together with schools and agencies to ensure successful transitions for students with disabilities.

Transition Partnership Program through Department of Rehabilitation

In this episode of the Pathways to Independence podcast, Jamie Kain from El Dorado County Charter SELPA hosts a discussion on building successful transition programs for students with disabilities. Featuring Melissa Hilbig, a Transition Partnership Program Specialist, and Cori Coffey, Chief Schools Officer at the Classical Academies in San Diego County, the episode delves into the importance of community engagement and partnerships. The conversation highlights strategies such as student-centered planning, family involvement, and networking with community partners including the Department of Rehabilitation. Helpful tips and real-world examples of how to create meaningful transition activities and leverage technology to connect students with the broader community are also shared. Listeners are encouraged to access the resources mentioned via the website and stay tuned for more insights in the upcoming episodes.