 |
CNMI Office of Vocational
Rehabilitation "Together we can build a future" |
 |
FAQ by parents and teachers about Vocational Rehabilitation...
Is there an established working relationship between OVR and PSS Special Education Transition Program?
Yes. The Rehab Act as amended requires OVR to enter into a formal interagency cooperative agreement with the Public School System Special Education program to plan the transition of students with disabilities from school to work. The agreement is reviewed and renewed annually between OVR and PSS.
What is the Special Education Transition Program?
It is a program designed to facilitate the transition of students with disabilities either from school to work, school to community living, or school to post secondary education.
Who are the qualified personnel responsible for transition services between the two agencies?
Under the cooperative agreement, a designated Transition Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor from OVR works closely and consults with a Special Education Counselor to determine which transition services to provide to the student. This includes the development of the Individual Education Plan for the transition of students with disabilities from school to post-school activities.
What types of OVR services can be provided to a student with disabilities while still in school?
Can OVR purchase assistive technology devices for students with disabilities enrolled in PSS Special Education Transition Program?
It depends, generally, a student enrolled in the PSS Special Education program is entitled to Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) as long as he/she remains in school. Each student's Individual Education Plan should reflect the types of "appropriate and related services" needed, and PSS should assume all costs for purchases of assistive technology or assistive services as needed for educational purposes. However, sometimes OVR does assist with the costs for repair, maintenance, and the replacement or upgrade of assistive technology devices that PSS/SPED purchased for a student.
What services can OVR provide to a former Special Education Transition Student who exits the school system after graduation or failure to complete school?
After exiting the school system, a former transition student must first apply and qualify for VR services. A student, however, need not exit the school system in order to begin receiving OVR services. In fact, prior to leaving the school system, students can apply for OVR services and, if eligible, some OVR services can begin once an OVR Individualized Plan for Employment is completed.
Is it possible for a student to qualify for OVR services even though they are not eligible for special education at their local school?
Yes! A student does not need to be receiving special education services to qualify for assistance through OVR. There are students with disabilities who do not qualify for Special Education but meet the definition of Section 504 of the Rehab Act. These students can apply for VR services. If qualified, they can receive the same OVR services that are available to Special Education students.
Can OVR help an individual with preparation for college?
Yes, but college attendance will depend on the vocational goal of the consumer. OVR assistance will be authorized only after other sources of education financial assistance have been utilized and considered. The main purpose of the VR program is to achieve an employment outcome. Development of occupational skills is more important than a college degree.
If I think I qualify for OVR services or know someone else who does, what should I do?
For questions regarding high school students talk to the PSS Special Education Program Coordinator or to an OVR Counselor. If you know a college student who may be eligible for OVR services, simply refer him or her to OVR.
How does an individual qualify for OVR services?
To qualify for OVR services, an individual must have a disability that serves as a substantial barrier to employment and must require VR services in order to find and maintain employment.
Can OVR help an individual prepare for future employment?
Yes. Employment is the key issue related to OVR's involvement in assisting individuals with disabilities.
How does a person go about getting assistance from OVR?
How long will it take to find out if an individual with disabilities Qualifies for services?
Sometimes eligibility can be determined in the first visit. Individuals who receive SSI or SSDI are presumed eligible. However, in most situations, additional information may be needed and more time may be required to gather the information.
The Rehab Act requires that a decision regarding eligibility must be made within 60 days after receiving an application. If an extension beyond the 60 days is necessary, the applicant must agree to an extension by completing a form with an OVR counselor.
What types of services can OVR provide to qualified individuals?
. 
.