By Trish Svoboda

The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) will manage an $8.4 million federal grant to establish the Kansas Youth Transition Network, as stated in a release. This statewide initiative is designed to support students with disabilities in transitioning from education to employment.

Collaborative efforts from multiple organizations are working to establish and reinforce the Kansas Youth Transition Network. KSDE will act as the fiscal agent, overseeing grant funds and project completion. Additional partners include the Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities, contributing to evaluation and improvement initiatives, and community-based Centers for Independent Living (CIL).

The grant’s funding initiates a five-year plan, during which project partners will establish a steering committee. This committee will include representatives from KSDE, the Kansas Department for Children and Families Rehabilitation Services, CIL, and community representatives such as youth with disabilities, parents, teachers, and support systems for individuals with disabilities.

As well as the community councils, a resource website will be introduced to enhance education and aid transitions for youth with disabilities. The goal is to strengthen relationships among community members, engaged partners, and Kansas agencies dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities.