Recorded Transition Talks

Transition People


For the 2020-21 school year, we offered a virtual webinar series for parents of children with disabilities to learn about some amazing topics that will assist them and their child with planning for life beyond high school.  We called this "Tuesday Transition Talks at 12!"  From February through April, every Tuesday at noon, we recorded live Zoom webinars on various topics for parents. The session description with recording and handouts are linked below!  

Special Education 101
February 2, 2021 at Noon
Link to Handout HERE
Overview for parents on the basics of public school district special education child find, evaluation, service and due process obligations. Presented virtually by Dena Hagen, NLSEC Director of Special Education. 
Right arrow Recorded Session here

Introduction to Transition Planning for life after high school
February 9, 2021 at Noon
Link to Handout HERE
One of life’s most significant transitions occurs when a student prepares to leave high school and enter the world as a young adult.  As a parent/guardian of a youth with disabilities, this session will help provide a basis of understanding the transition planning process.  Presented virtually by Jessica Knutsen, NLSEC Secondary Transition Coordinator.
Right arrow Recorded Session here


Social Security (SSI/SSDI) and/or DB101
February 16, 2021 at Noon
Link to Handout HERE
Disability Hub MN™ makes it easier for people with disabilities to understand their options, connect to solutions and engage in possibilities. In this webinar we will discuss the basics of Social Security disability benefits. You are almost always better off when you work and our experts will explain the work incentives that can help make that possible.  We will also show you tools on DB101 that can help you plan your future and manage your benefits. We’ll make sure to leave some time to answer your questions, too.  Presented virtually by Lauren Gower and Heather Stillwell.
Right arrow Recorded Session here

What is Guardianship & Supported Decision Making?
February 23, 2021 at Noon
Link to Presentation Slideshow
Link to Identifying Alternatives to Guardianship Publication
Link to How to Make a Supported Decision-Making Agreement Publication
Commonly, parents of children with developmental disabilities are encouraged to seek guardianship when their child is approaching age 18.  But that may be an overly restrictive intervention.  Learn how Supported Decision Making, a nationally recognized option, can maximize self-determination while acknowledging concerns related to vulnerability for people with disabilities.  This session will discuss approaches to respond to vulnerabilities as well as tips for discussions with families considering guardianship.  Presented virtually by Anita Raymond, Center for Excellence in Supported Decision Making.
Right arrow Recorded Session here


How To’s of Filing for Guardianship
March 2, 2021 at Noon
Link to Handout HERE
Join an attorney from the Center for Excellence in Supported Decision making to talk about the timeline of petitioning for guardianship and the information needed at each stage of the process. Presented virtually by John Kantke, Attorney at Law - Attorney for Estate and Elder Law Services-Center for Excellence in Supported Decision Making.
Right arrow Recorded Session here


Preparing my Child for Post Secondary Education Programs
March 9, 2021 at Noon
Link to Handout HERE
Join disability service reps from the College of St. Scholastica, Lake Superior College, and the University of Minnesota Duluth to learn more about how to best prepare your student for post-secondary education.  This informal discussion will cover a range of topics including admission requirements & processes, differences between high school & college, and steps students & parents can take right now to prepare for success in college.  There will also be plenty of time for Q&A during this session. Presented virtually by Emily Norenberg (UMD), Stacy Langguth (LSC), Hannah Richards (CSS) and Nancy Olsen (FDLTCC). 
Right arrow Recorded Session here


Duluth Vocational Options/Supports 
March 16, 2021 at Noon
Link to Handout HERE
Join Duluth ISD 709 and state VRS representatives who will share about vocational development opportunities available to students with disabilities within the Duluth district and outside the district.  We will also explain how numerous agencies can work together to help students grow and succeed in their employment goals, both during and after high school. Presented virtually by Andy Larson (VRS), Josie Grabowski(VRS), Keely Waechter (ISD 709). 
Right arrow Recorded Session here


Parent Advocacy 
March 23, 2021 at Noon
Link to Pre-ETS website
Arc Northland will be presenting, “Pathing The Way For Your Student!”. This session will talk about the importance of being a strong self-advocate for both the parents and students. Tips and ideas will be discussed on how parents can get their voices heard more and about preparing for their student’s future. We will also talk about the importance of Person Centered Planning and creating goals towards their student’s “North Star”/dreams. Resources and next steps will also be shared. Presented virtually by Meredith Kujala, Laurie Berner & Sherie Lillie (Arc Northland).
Right arrow  Recorded Session here


Preparing My Child With an Intellectual Disability for Post Secondary Education 
April 6, 2021 at Noon
Link to MICC presentation & Campus Tour with Evan on YouTube
Link to Occupational Skills Program for CLS presentation
Come learn about a few MN postsecondary educational programs designed specifically for individuals with intellectual disabilities; Bethel University’s BUILD Program, Minnesota Independence College & Community, and Central Lakes College.  Learn about the skills students acquire while attending these programs, admission process, and options for financial assistance.  Presented virtually by Katie Sjeklocha (MICC), Kim Bethke (Bethel) and Patty Sloan (CLC).
Right arrow Recorded Session here


Attaining & Navigating County Supports
April 13, 2021 at Noon
Link to St. Louis County Rule 185 Case Management-Transition Age Brochure
Link to Presentation slideshow
A panel of case managers from St. Louis County present information on program options, eligibility and how to access services and the positives that can come from partnering with county services.  The county works collaboratively with schools, Vocational Rehabilitation services (VRS) and community providers to enhance transition planning for after high school.  They are a partner in navigating the maze of support systems persons with disabilities can access.  Presented virtually by Amy Potter and Megan McArthur (St. Louis County).
Right arrow Recorded Session here


NLSEC Vocational Options/Supports
April 20, 2021 at Noon
Link to Presentation slideshow
Link to Informational YouTube Video (2 min)
Join Northern Lights Special Education Co-op and state VRS staff who will share about vocational development opportunities available to students with disabilities.  We will also explain how numerous agencies can work together to help students grow and succeed in their employment goals during and after high school. Presented virtually by Cindy Matheson (VRS), Cassie Campbell (VRS), Dee LeBlanc (NLSEC), Nic Hanson (NLSEC), Josie Grabowski (VRS) and Renae Hampton (VRS).
Right arrow  Recorded Session HERE


Working with Community Providers
April 27, 2021 at Noon
Link to Presentation slideshow
Co-presentation between TLC and Trillium  to discuss the interplay between schools, the state, and community providers with an overview of general practices for starting services with licensed providers. Presented virtually by Charles Gornik (TLC of Duluth), and Josh Howie (Trillium Works Inc!).
Right arrow  Recorded Session HERE


NLIC website Hermantown website Lake County DAC Tender Loving Care Pinewood Inc Lake Superior College Trillium Works Trillium Services Access North The Bullyan Center for Udac The Arc Northland St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services St. Louis County Public Health and Human Services Carlton County Lighthouse Center for Vital Living ChildCare Aware Video Help Me Grow Resources and Referral Information video Trillium Works! video Udac video VRS video