Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS)

MRC’s Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-Ets) provide students with disabilities the opportunity to experience and explore the world of work. Together with provider partners across the state, we help students make decisions about their career paths and create a plan for their future. Whether younger students are interested in learning about their first summer job or upper-level students are planning their career path after school, providers offer a wide range of possibilities for students aged 14-21 (up until their 22nd birthday).    

Pre-ETS providers focus on five core services to offer students during the program. 

• Job exploration and counseling   

• Workplace readiness training   

• Work-based learning experiences   

• Counseling on post-secondary education or training   

• Self-advocacy and peer mentoring   

Every student is different, and there isn’t a “one-size-fits all” solution. Pre-ETS providers work with each student to find what type of job or career path best suits them. Students can expect a three-tier approach from providers to help build job awareness and confidence.  

Start-up Tier – Building Awareness    

Are they looking for a summer job? Do they want to know about available positions? Do they need help filling out work permits? The provider will help explore what’s available for the student.   

Intermedia Tier – Career Exploration  

What career interests them? What education and skills will they need? The provider will help explore the training and possible internships available for the student.    

Advanced Tier – Preparation   

Two years before graduating (or turning 22), the student will want to begin to connect with us and meet your VR counselor. Your counselor will pick up where the Pre-ETS provider left off, helping the student transition to a career path.     

Students in the 688 Program   

If the student is eligible for the 688 Program, your school system will connect them with a designated adult agency. Together, they will develop an Individual Transition Plan (ITP) and prepare a program that’s right for the student.   

Beyond High School 
 

Pre-ETS services aren’t just for students in a traditional high school. Students enrolled in vocational schools, college courses, or training programs can still be eligible to work with a provider, as long as they are under the age of 22. 

Every school in the Commonwealth is assigned a Pre-Ets provider and a MRC counselor as a resource. If you would like to receive more information about finding the provider for your student, contact your school’s guidance office or local MRC Office. 

MRC currently has 34 pre-ETS community providers that you can connect with or ask your MRC liaison for more information.