(NARRATOR): If you're a student with a disability
and about to turn 18, congrats!
Once you're 18 you're a legal adult.
Everyone has stuff they need to figure out
when they become an adult
and it can be overwhelming.
For example when you turn 18
you have to start filing your own taxes.
But it's not all bad,
when you turn 18 you gain
the right to vote, too.
Because you might not be eligible for
supports you had growing up,
you'll need to advocate for
what you want and need.
To figure out what you want and need,
it's also important to understand
all of your rights and responsibilities.
A transition plan can help with this
by laying out next steps after high school
like where you will live or
if you'll continue your education.
If you're a student with a disability
receiving special education services,
schools are required to work with you
on a transition plan
usually when you first start high school.
Agencies that can offer advice and recommendations
should be invited to meetings
at your high school about your transition plan.
For example, your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office,
or "VR" office for short.
Okay great! so now you have a transition plan.
But, what happens when you actually become an adult?
Well, VR can provide financial assistance
and other supports
if you want to continue your education
They can help you figure out what
types of accommodations and services
you might need at a college,
vocational training,
or even a job
and help set them up for you.
Another place to find support is
your local Center for Independent Living.
They offer peer support and skills training.
They're there to help you live in the community
and not in places like group homes.
Right before you turn 18,
your parent might think they need
to apply for "Guardianship",
which means they make all of your decisions.
But this is not the only option
and it might not be the best option for you.
If you want to be able to make your own decisions,
another option is: Supported Decision-Making.
This means that when you become an adult,
a person or group of people
helps you in the decision making process.
but you get the final say.
That's a lot of info, so let's recap!
When you turn 18, things change.
You have to start planning
for your future before those changes happen.
In high school you should be working with your school
to make a transition plan.
Around that time,
there might also be discussions about guardianship,
but this might not be the best choice for you
and there are other options like Supported Decision-Making
where you have more control.
make sure to talk about all your options.
As an adult you're also entitled to services.
Some great places to start looking for supports,
are your local Vocational Rehabilitation Office,
and Center for Independent Living.
There's a lot to learn as you take the lead in your life.
As an adult it's extremely important
to advocate for yourself.
You have the right to choose your own path.
and to get the support you need along the way.