School to Work

Program description

Pierce County’s School to Work Program is designed to assist eligible transition students in obtaining paid employment prior to exiting school. Students enrolled in the program will work directly with a supported employment agency that will collaborate with the student, their parent(s)/guardian, school district staff, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). The goal is to help the student find a good job before exiting the school district’s transition program, thus make a seamless transition into the adult services system.

Eligibility Criteria

• Students must be turning 19 and in their second to last year of eligibility for school services.
• Students must have an open case with the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA).
• Students must be enrolled and attending a Pierce County High School.
• Students must apply and be eligible for services with the Department of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR).
• Students must have desire to have their own job in the community.
• Students are encouraged to apply for benefits through Social Security Administration.

Steps to enroll:

Complete your School to Work application online by clicking here, OR request an application by emailing: [email protected]

• Select a supported employment agency. 
• Complete Student/Agency agreement form online by clicking here           . Email completed agreement to: [email protected] 
• Apply for DVR services. Please contact the School to Work DVR Liaison.
• Contact your DDA Case Resource Manager or if you are on the Non-paid Services caseload, contact 1-800-735-6740 and request the program.