Students with special needs and their families invited to attend Options Fair to learn about postsecondary opportunities and available services

This year’s annual Options Fair, which was established to offer students with special needs and their families an opportunity to learn about postsecondary options and resources, will take place on Oct. 16.

See the event details below.

What: Sponsored through the collaborative effort of 25 area high schools, this year’s fair will feature more than 70 vendors, representing colleges/universities, college certificate programs, college experience programs, careers in the trades, and agencies that provide services to youth and adults with special needs. The event is divided into four areas of focus:

  1. College degree programs, with information regarding admissions and accommodations

  2. College experience programs, for those interested in continuing their education formally after high school (the presentation will focus on developing vocational, social, independent-living and academic skills for employment and beyond)

  3. Trades/certification programs, with information regarding admissions and training opportunities in trades such as automotive, skilled manufacturing, HVAC, welding and computer technology

  4. Adult agencies/services, with insight into accessing state funding and services, obtaining government benefits, guardianship, long-term financial planning, day programs and more

Presentations:

  • College Accommodations: ADA vs. IDEA
    • 6 to 6:45 p.m.
    • 7:15 to 8 p.m.

  • Planning for Transition: Legal Issues
    • 6 to 6:45 p.m.
    • 7:15 to 8 p.m.

When: 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Oct. 16, 2024

Where: Glenbard North High School, 990 Kuhn Road in Carol Stream

Cost: This program is free to the public.

Registration: Pre-registration isn’t required.

For questions or more information: Go to https://optionsfair.org, or view the following social media accounts: