Employment and Transition Program

About Our Program

The Federal Way School District Employment & Transition Program assists students with developmental disabilities with acquiring the skills needed to be contributors to their community.

The Federal Way School District’s Employment & Transition Program is designed to meet the needs of students with developmental disabilities beyond the high school years. The program helps students develop the skills needed in areas such as employment, personal management, life skills and leisure/recreational interests.

Work Experiences

Students in the Employment & Transition Program spend two to three hours per day in employment situations. Although most job sites offer non-paid volunteer opportunities, they also provide valuable training towards becoming a successful future employee. Typical jobsites include warehouse work, office/clerical work, landscape and grounds maintenance, custodial/building maintenance, food service, retail positions, and many other opportunities.

The coordination of efforts between the employer, ETP staff, employment vendors, families, and representatives from DDA and DVR is an important step in students acquiring a paid position. All agencies come together with students and their families to formulate a plan that best suits the individual needs of each student.

In the video below, Employment for All, hear what advocates and legislators have to say about the ability of all people to work, go to college, and lead typical lives. Features Senators Andy Hill (R-45) and Rosemary McAuliffe (D-1). Hosted by Sue Elliott and Ed Holen.

Ability Awareness Project

Ability Awareness is a KBTC production, featuring ETP scholars. This ongoing project provides short videos about Social Emotional Learning skills for work and independent living. To view the video, click here.

Community Access/Personal Management

Students enrolled in the Employment & Transition Program receive assistance and instruction in daily living skills such as money management, communication skills, appropriate social behaviors, and use of public transportation.

Weekly outings using public transportation serve as a classroom to practice real-life scenarios.

These trips include visits to grocery/retail stores, restaurants, libraries, businesses, the Federal Way Community Center, the bowling alley, and area malls.