My Transition Portfolio: Keys to Self-Determination and Independent Living for Young Adults (cover)

Author Spotlight–My Transition Portfolio

Barb Blakeslee, educator and author of the second edition of My Transition Portfolio, discusses the unique features and benefits of her “person-centered” transition program and her passion for special education in this exclusive Author Spotlight interview.


What is My Transition Portfolio program and who can benefit from this book?

My Transition Portfolio system was developed for students ages 14–21 who receive specially designed instruction within special education settings. My desire was to create a comprehensive, well-prompted system to assist students in expressing their personal preferences. I wanted them to freely share their dreams, their life story, their communication and learning styles. They are guided through the process of self-advocacy by developing their transition goals and leading portions of their own IEP meetings. Additionally, in section two of the book, I created a systematic format as a bridge to post-high school planning and independent living.

What makes My Transition Portfolio different from other special education supplemental curriculum?

There is no other transition tool available like My Transition Portfolio. Not only does it specifically target Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and link back to grade-level benchmarks in English Language Arts (ELA), but it is also person-centered in its development. It was created to draw out the dreams inside individuals who need support in expressing their needs and preferences for life after high school.

How can all of the content be easily organized for sharing with support agencies and other support providers?

The book is specifically designed to ease the burden of information sharing. Flexibility in portfolio development is made possible through the companion 3-ring binder entitled My Transition Portfolio Notebook. This three-ring binder is indexed with printed tabs to hold the personalized information from My Transition Portfolio. This option allows for organized and simple updating and tracking of the individual’s progress.

Once students fully develop their portfolio, they are encouraged to transfer that information to the My Supports App by MyKey™ Consulting found in the Apple Store and Google Play. This critical information is needed for community access. Seamless information sharing is made possible via PDF files sent by their own email on mobile devices.

Why did you develop My Transition Portfolio?

My passion in the field of special education is to see students successfully transition from high school to independent living and adulthood. Teaching in public high school and in adult transition programs provided eye-opening experiences. I’ve recognized the need for a specific method to support students in making their “voices” known and heard. Sharing their individualized preferences with members of their team is essential to meeting their needs and gaining support to reach their self-directed goals and potential.

What if there are questions about the curriculum?

You can always visit mykeyplans.com for updates and/or contact me directly at barb@mykeyplans.com.


For additional information about author Barb Blakeslee, visit her author
page
.

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