NEXT Step Program guides students to discover new pathways
The New Experiences in Transition Step Program, through the Ida Sue School and the Wayne County Board of Developmental Disabilities, is an initiative designed to empower students as they transition from adolescence to adulthood. This program offers personalized guidance and support to help young people discover their strengths, interests, and aspirations.
Through career exploration, life skills development and mentorship, the NEXT Step Program equips students and their families with the confidence and tools they need to make informed decisions about their futures.
According to Emily Morgan, intervention specialist for NEXT Step and Ida Sue School, the program, in its second year of operation, is geared toward 18- to 21-year-old students who desire vocational training.
“We discovered that there is a need for students who have completed their academic requirements but need additional job training to enter the workforce,” Morgan said. “Students work in the community along with a job coach at one of our community partner locations.”
Community partnerships are essential to the program and range from office buildings to retail stores, offering students many opportunities to discover their career paths.
At the heart of the program’s vision is the belief that with the right tools and encouragement, students can confidently navigate the challenges of adolescence and emerge as capable, self-aware adults ready to contribute positively to their communities and careers.
A partnership with the Wayne County Administration Building, which houses multiple government agencies, gives students a perspective of various vocations.
“The yearlong program is a steppingstone for students who have completed high school and are transitioning into adulthood,” Morgan said. “We tailor the program to the needs of each student. Last year one of our students worked two part-time jobs, and he kept those jobs after his time in the program.”
Wayne County Commissioner Dave McMillen, a former teacher, is excited about the partnership.
“By connecting classrooms with local businesses and community organizations, schools can create real-world training programs that build confidence and enhance communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities,” McMillen said. “These partnerships help break down stigmas, promote inclusivity and pave the way for meaningful employment, ultimately contributing to a more diverse and equitable workforce.”
To learn more about the NEXT Steps Program, visit www.waynedd.org/educational-services/next-step.
Dan Starcher is the public communications coordinator for Wayne County.