The School to Employment Program (STEP) helps students prepare for what comes after high school. Students have the opportunity to develop skills they can take into the workplace or college. The program reflects a variety of skills, interests, and goals based on participants’ needs.

STEP acts as a bridge to the Island community, allowing students to gain community-based work experience through paid internships.

STEP programming is available to students aged 14-22 with a documented disability who are enrolled in high school or post-secondary education/training.

The goal of STEP is to help students with disabilities explore, increase awareness, and prepare for post-secondary employment and education options through five core services.

The program has five core components:

Seminars or workshops on careers and required skills, career ladders, and interest inventory.

Development of transferable work skills which may include resume writing, interview skills and professionalism.

Opportunities to job shadow, complete informational interviews, volunteer opportunities and internships.

Seminars or workshops on careers and required skills, career ladders, and interest inventory.

Peer mentoring, development of individual advocacy skills and rights and responsibilities.

Wondering if STEP is the right fit for you or a loved one?

The program is open to students between the ages of 14-22 who are currently enrolled in any Martha’s Vineyard Public School. Students must meet the eligibility requirements of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission.

To learn more, contact:

Sharon Brown, Disability Services Coordinator
STEP Program
sbrown@mvcommunityservices.org
774-563-3601

Kate Lefer, Disability Services Program Director
klefer@mvcommunityservices.org

Barbara Bianco
Special Education Administrator (9-12)
barbara.bianco@mvyps.org

STEP is funded by the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission