E1MN Newsletter - February 2026
E1MN Updates
In order to better align our systems and increase our ability to provide a seamless and timely employment support system, we have been conducting an Interagency Employment Supports Alignment Study.
Phase 1 of the study is now complete and the report is available. This phase focused on service rates, provider enrollment processes, and monitoring standards. The goal was to identify ways to make it easier for providers to work across systems and to reduce barriers related to enrollment, contracting, billing, and rates. Read the full January 13th announcement to learn more.
Employment Capacity Building Cohort 2.0 Grants Awarded
The Minnesota Department of Education has awarded five ECBC 2.0 grants to a cohort of school districts focused on expanding paid employment opportunities for secondary students with disabilities. Over the next two years, participating teams will engage in professional learning, peer collaboration, and data-driven improvement cycles aligned with Minnesota’s Youth in Transition and Work-Based Learning frameworks.
The goal of ECBC 2.0 is to strengthen transition planning, expand paid work experiences, and build sustainable district capacity to improve competitive, integrated employment outcomes for students with disabilities.
Congratulations to the ECBC 2.0 grant recipients:
-
Cromwell-Wright Public School
-
Northeast Metro Intermediate School District 916
-
Intermediate District 287
-
South Washington County Schools
Statewide Transition Community of Practice for Educators
Educators are invited to attend the next Statewide Transition Community of Practice. This virtual educator-only session provides a space to connect with colleagues across the state, share challenges and strategies, and engage in collaborative problem-solving focused on secondary transition practices.
When: February 26th from 3:00–4:30 PM
Resources
Minnesota State Rehabilitation Council Annual Report
VRS). The
Apply for the National Disability Leadership Series
Now more than ever, we need people who will support disability rights. Disabled young people deserve full, inclusive lives. Apply by February 15, 2026 for the National Disability Leadership Series. This series is a training on disability advocacy and action for inclusion in school, work, and the community.
This is a fully online program that lasts 10 months. It includes 100 people: young disabled adults, educators, professionals, and family members. The Series will help you grow as a leader through presentations, community connections, mentorship, and group projects.
Success Stories
Peer Perspectives: How SSB Helps Students Build Independence and Explore Careers
This Blind Abilities podcast episode features peer ambassadors Amy and Maddy, who share how Minnesota’s State Services for the Blind (SSB) has supported their educational and vocational journeys. From summer camps to career exploration and technology training, SSB has played a vital role in helping them develop independence, self-advocacy, and professional readiness.
Transition Coordinator Shane DeSantis explains how SSB collaborates with students, schools, and families starting at age 14, providing individualized services like job shadowing, orientation and mobility training, and Braille instruction. The episode highlights real-world experiences, resources, and the long-term impact of SSB on the lives of blind and visually impaired students.
Events
MTI Quarterly Training: Peer to Peer Mentorship with The Arc MN
Join ICI’s Minnesota Transformation Initiative’s quarterly training on how employment service providers use The Arc Minnesota’s Peer-to-Peer Mentor Program to connect job seekers with peer/family mentors who have navigated their own job searches. Learn about the program, resources, and how to get involved. The program is part of MTI’s mission to support competitive integrated employment across Minnesota.
When: March 4th from 2:00–3:00 PM via Zoom
|
