Guide
Panel Discussion: Preparing students with CVI for life after high school
It's never too early to start building independence, advocacy skills, and planning for your child's transition to life after high school. The Transition Center and CVI Now teamed up to provide a lively panel discussion on how to prepare students with CVI for the transition years. View the recording.
About the webinar
The Transition Center and CVI Now recently teamed up to provide a virtual panel conversation for families of students with CVI or Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment. We explored foundational concepts in transition planning and strategies for preparing your child (and yourself) for life after high school. This period marks a significant shift in responsibility, resources, and support systems, and careful planning is essential to ensure a smooth transition. Listen to the recording to hear real talk about getting ready for life after high school.
Panel Discussion
Moderated by: Rachel Bennett, director of CVI Now, and Alex Lavoie, director of the Transition Center
Mara LaViola, parent advocate and mother of a young adult with CVI
Ann Phelan, manager of resources and engagement, Perkins Transition Center
Leslie Thatcher, director of program development and strategy, Perkins Transition Center
Download slides
Resources and Links shared in the webinar
Our panel discussion included so many links and resources! We wanted to include them here.
PathFinder Pre-Employment Program (open to students with visual impairment around the country)
Life Launch Program (a brand new Transition Program that starts in July 2025)
Compass Program for college-aspiring students around the country
Schedule a 1:1 Perkins Transition Planning guidance appointment with Ann Phelan, Perkins Transition Center Manager of Resources and Engagement and Transition Planning expert.
Facebook Groups to join!
Transition Checklist. A downloadable timeline of action steps for ages 14 through 21.
Transition Talk is a series of free, monthly virtual workshops, covering topics such as Financial Planning, Housing, Insurance, Healthcare, Guardianship and much more. Register here for the series.
Transition Resources – Perkins Transition Center’s collection of Transition resources, checklists and recordings
Understanding Pre-ETS – A helpful resource all about Pre-ETS services
Transition Talk Guardianship webinar recordings with guest speaker Heather Connors, Executive Director, The Center for Guardianship Excellence
