DSCC Fact Sheets Resources
Illinois School-to-Work Transition Guide
The Illinois School-to-Work Transition Guide is a comprehensive resource for transition-age students and their families as they plan for the transition from school to adult life. This user-friendly guide provides clear, up-to-date information about the transition process with a focus on the transition from school to work. The guide is designed to be a key resource for Illinois students, parents/guardians, teachers, school administrators, guidance and vocational rehabilitation counselors, and other school-based and adult services providers.
The guide includes information specific to Illinois for the school-to-work (STW) transition, such as:
- Key individuals and their roles and responsibilities
- Important steps and stages in the STW transition process
- Key terms and definitions
- Legal aspects
- Helpful guidelines and resources
Illinois Seizure Smart School Act Resources
Effective July 1, 2020, the Seizure Smart School Act requires all Illinois school personnel to be trained in seizure first aid. It also requires the development of a Seizure Action Plan for students with epilepsy on how to best care for students with the disorder. A student’s parents or guardians will share their healthcare provider’s instructions on managing the student’s epilepsy and include a copy of any prescriptions and how and when to administer those medicines.
The Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago provides resources and frequently asked questions about the law and what it means for families and schools.
Illinois Special Education Information for Parents/Guardians
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) has developed guides and resources specifically for parents of students with disabilities to help them navigate the educational system and know how to best work with district and school personnel. Visit ISBE’s Special Education – Parents/Guardians page for more information.
Illinois Spina Bifida Association
The Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA) works to improve the quality of life of children, adults and families with spina bifida. ISBA works to accomplish its mission by:
- Promoting skills development and independence
- Supporting individuals and families through outreach, education and advocacy
- Investing in people by funding scholarships, mobility equipment, research and emergency help
For more information or to participate in these programs, visit ISBA’s website or call (773) 444-0305.
Illinois Spina Bifida Association Vision Referral Program
The Illinois Spina Bifida Association (ISBA) offers a vision referral program in partnership with the Illinois Eye Institute (IEI), which provides specialized services for pediatric patients and people with developmental disabilities.
If anyone in your family needs vision care, ISBA can help you set up an appointment at IEI in Chicago or refer you to other statewide providers offering affordable care regardless of insurance or financial status.
Illinois STAR NET helps provide early childhood professionals and families with the support needed to provide all children with a high-quality, equitable education in inclusive environments. STAR NET provides workshops, funding opportunities, technical assistance and more to promote:
- Evidence-based inclusive practices for young children with disabilities from birth to age eight
- Professional development to support educators and families
- Meaningful child outcomes through innovative and engaging learning experiences
See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.
Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE). The project receives annual funding from federal sources.
Illinois STAR NET Chicago Region V
Illinois STAR NET Chicago Region V provides regional technical assistance, professional development, family learning opportunities and resources to support the education and development of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Support includes workshops, webinars (both live and on-demand), resource specialists, a virtual library and more.
Visit STAR NET Chicago Region V’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.
See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.
For questions about STAR NET Region V, email starnet@cps.edu or call (773) 553-5596.
The STARNET Project is operated by the Chicago Public Schools, Office for Students with Disabilities, through a grant from the Illinois State Board of Education.
Illinois STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI
STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI offer a range of regional resources to early childhood professionals and parents of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Resources include training, consultation, webinars and events for families and professionals, a lending library and more.
Visit the STAR NET Northern Regions II and VI website to learn more and register for webinars, training, and events near you.
See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.
For more information, email STAR NET Regions II and VI at starnet2and6@cntrmail.org or call (224) 366-8579.
Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual funding from federal sources.
Illinois STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III
STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III provide regional training and resources to early childhood community professionals and families of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight. Support includes workshops, webinars (live and on-demand), technical assistance and resource specialists, a lending library and more.
Visit STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.
See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.
For questions about STAR NET Northwest Region I and Central Region III, email starnet@wiu.edu or call (309) 298-1634.
Illinois STAR NET is operated through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education, which receives annual funding from federal sources.
Illinois STAR NET Southern Region IV
STAR NET Southern Region IV provides technical assistance, professional development, family learning opportunities and resources to support the education and development of young children with disabilities from birth through age eight.
Regional support includes:
- Webinars and training
- A lending library
- Family support and resources
- Professional and family events
Visit STAR NET Southern Region IV’s website to learn more and register for webinars, training and events near you.
See the STAR NET Statewide Map to learn more about each regional service area.
For more information about STAR NET Southern Region IV, call (618) 825-3966.
Illinois STAR NET is administered by the St. Clair County Regional Office of Education through a grant awarded by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), which receives annual funding from federal sources.