2026 KACTE Summer Program

This session describes how a rural district redesigned work‑based learning to expand access and meaningful employment experiences for students with disabilities, including those in MSD programs, by moving from limited, one‑size‑fits‑all placements to a broader, flexible model that overcame rural barriers like transportation, few employers, and staffing limits. It covers building sustainable local business partnerships, adapting job roles for diverse learners, aligning IEP transition goals with authentic workplace skills, and preserving compliance while maintaining high expectations. Attendees will learn strategies for preparing students before, during, and after placements through collaboration with special education staff and community partners and receive practical resources, planning templates, employer communication tools, and student readiness checklists, along with interactive discussion, to leave with actionable steps for strengthening inclusive work‑based learning in rural and small communities.