Affiliations: Virginia Department of Education Training and Technical Assistance Center, James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, USA | Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services, Richmond, VA, USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Sally L. Chappel, Coordinator, Virginia Department of Education Training and Technical Assistance Center, MSC 9002, Harrisonburg, VA 22807, USA. Tel.: +1 540 568 8095; E-mail: chappesl@jmu.edu
Abstract: The number of persons diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is on the rise. With more individuals being diagnosed, it is imperative that these persons get the skills and services necessary to obtain and retain employment. Given the fact that individuals with ASD benefit from services through the vocational rehabilitation system, it is essential that schools and vocational rehabilitation work together to ensure that students with ASD access the services they need to be successful employees. School systems and their vocational rehabilitation partners need to make a commitment to cooperatively work together to provide a comprehensive transition plan for students with ASD. Once these steps for becoming successful partners are in place there are a variety of strategies that, if implemented, will likely improve the outcomes for students with ASD.
