WorkAbility I (WAI) Program
The WorkAbility I (WAI) Program is funded and administered by the California Department of Education (CDE). The program provides comprehensive pre-employment skills training, job placement, and follow-up support for high school students receiving special education services as they transition from school to employment, independent living, and postsecondary education or training. Services are individualized to meet each student’s unique needs, abilities, interests, and postsecondary goals.
The WAI Program offers students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meaningful opportunities to complete their secondary education while developing marketable job skills and real-world work experience. Through participation in WAI, students gain knowledge and practice in essential job-seeking and job-retention skills, helping prepare them for successful participation in the workforce and their communities.
Array of Services
School-Based Preparatory Experiences
-
Career and Vocational Assessments (HS/MS)
- Employment and Post-secondary Education Planning
- Curriculum Integration of Work-Readiness Skills and Contextual Learning
- Career and Vocational Education
Career Preparation and Work-Based Learning Experiences
- Career Awareness and Exploration Activities
- Career Preparation and Job Search
- Work-Based Learning
- Employment and Work Experience
- Job Retention
- Work-site Mentor
- Job Coach
- Work Site Follow Along and Employer Communication
Youth Development and Leadership/Collaboration
- Self-advocacy and Disability Awareness
- Youth leadership
- Destination and Transportation Training
- Life Skills and Independent Living
- Family Participation and Support of Transition
- Partnership and Collaboration
Requirements
All high school and postsecondary students are included in the WorkAbility I (WAI) database. However, students participating in paid work experience are required to complete a WAI onboarding packet through the SCCOE Human Resources Department. A valid ID and a copy of the student’s Social Security card are also required.
REFERRAL FORM
