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YOUTH, PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND COUNSELORS |
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BEST STEP 2026 Recap
Every summer, students with disabilities across Oklahoma have an opportunity to lay the foundation for an amazing future. This opportunity is a summer program known as BEST STEP. Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS), in partnership with Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) teams from OU, Kiamichi Tech and Central Tech, holds a series of summer camps focused on strengthening skills that prepare students with disabilities for life after high school.
Students selected for the BEST STEP program learn important lessons on topics such as self-advocacy, post-secondary education, work-based learning, job exploration and workplace readiness. They even have the chance to apply this knowledge in a PAID internship working for employers in their community. Without question, this is a summer program that is helping students with disabilities prepare for a fulfilling and independent future.
This summer, BEST STEP was a success. Oklahoma had camp locations in thirty-four different Oklahoma towns. All corners of the state, including many urban, rural and traditionally underserved communities, benefitted from this summer program. There were a record number of applicants to the program. It seems that more schools, teachers, counselors and parents are aware of BEST STEP and how it can benefit students by preparing them for their future and putting a little money in their pocket.
BEST STEP staff had a lot to say about how fun this summer was. Porsheana Brown from DRS said, "BEST continues to be one of the most rewarding programs because it gives students the opportunity to build confidence, explore careers and develop skills they’ll carry long after summer ends. Watching students discover their potential and take steps toward independence is exactly why this program matters."
Her teammate, Jeff Newton also participated in many BEST STEP locations. Jeff said, "Watching the Pre-ETS Specialists, Work Skills Trainers, and DRS Staff collaborate so seamlessly to ensure students could have a STEP internship and a schedule before leaving on Friday was truly inspiring.”
We also heard from Pre-ETS staff. Kaylee Finneran with OU Pre-ETS said, "This summer’s BEST STEP Camp was nothing short of inspiring! Watching our participants build real-world skills, gain confidence, and light up with possibility reminded us all why this program matters so much. From classroom training to hands-on experiences, every moment was a step toward brighter futures. We couldn’t be prouder of the growth, resilience, and achievements our young people showed this summer!"
In southern Oklahoma, BEST STEP staff had a lot of positive things to say as well. Kimberly Lane, A Pre-ETS Specialist with Kiamichi Tech, told us that she saw students become more independent and responsible as a result of attending BEST STEP.
Brooke Mason, also with Kiamich Tech, was asked about the overall BEST STEP experience from this summer. She said, Every student is made for more. BEST and STEP simply helped them believe it. This summer, students gained confidence, developed workplace skills, and discovered their potential through meaningful experiences that prepared them for future success."
Boulder Coffee in Sand Springs is a business that hosted BEST STEP interns this summer. They shared comments about their experience hosting STEP interns by saying in part, "Thanks so much for the invitation and the opportunity to participate in this program."
As BEST STEP continues to grow in popularity and effectiveness, we are doing our best to tell people about the program. This includes getting the word out to educators, parents, caregivers, students and Oklahoma businesses. Anyone familiar with BEST STEP should help spread the word. This summer program is making a real difference.
Finally, as a reminder, the BEST STEP application typically opens in early November and stays open through early March. We look forward to seeing many more happy faces in summer 2027!
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August 1 (Saturday): Oklahoma City Public Schools Back to School Bash
 OKCPS will host two Back to School Bash community events exclusive to families with students enrolled in Oklahoma City Public Schools.
Families can enjoy resources and direct services they need for a successful school year, including enrollment, no-cost medical and health screenings, information about after-school programs, free school supplies and more!
Location and Time:
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
US Grant High School
5016 S Pennsylvania Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73119
August 5: Thrive Online! Digital Literacy Training - Register Here
 This is a two part in person training in Tulsa. Thrive Online! Digital Literacy Training is where you can learn about digital citizenship including how to stay safe and stay connected. Part one is on July 7 from 9:00 a.m. through 11:00 a.m. and part two is on August 5 from 2:00 p.m. through 4:00 p.m.
Join the Disability Advisory Coalition for this joint learning opportunity for young adults with IDD and the parents/caregivers who support them. In the training, learn digital skills and build online confidence.
Location:
Legacy Plaza
5310 East 31st Street
Tulsa, OK 74135
Questions? Send an email to tgist@thearcok.org
Select this link to register for Thrive Online! Digital Literacy Training
August 7: Working Together Community Workshop
 Students and employers can attend this exciting workshop that is focused on connecting business leaders and students with disabilities to build an economically vibrant community.
Location:
Mercy Hospital
4300 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City, OK 73120
Overview of the day's agenda:
9:30 a.m. – Registration & Welcome
10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. – Educational sessions for employers, students and parents
12:15-1:30 p.m. – Lunch, keynote and networking
Educational Sessions Include:
Employer Track: Partners in Success Workshop - This training provides information on employee management and the benefits of employing students with disabilities who are transitioning into the workforce.
Student Track: Workforce Readiness – This training provides information on financial wellness, including how to manage bank accounts, borrowing and budgets. Also included is coaching on interviewing skills.
Parent Track: Transition Success – This training provides information for parents and caregivers on student financial wellness. Also includes training and support resources to help them help their students transition into the workforce.
STUDENTS, Select this link to register for the Working Together Community Workshop
EMPLOYERS, Select this link to register for the Working Together Community Workshop
October 6-7: 2026 Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI)
 The 2026 Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) is coming up. The theme this year is "All in: The Power of the Team." The annual conference is focused on supporting students with disabilities in their transition to post-secondary life. This year, the idea of how different teams and team members come together to make it all happen is front and center.
OTI will take place this year in Midwest City at the Reed Center on October 6 and 7. Topics will include how to enhance transition planning, how to access resources and tools, innovative approaches to this work, and so much more.
Location:
The Reed Center
5750 Will Rogers Road
Midwest City, OK 73110
Select this link to register for the 2026 Oklahoma Transition Institute
November 12-13: 2026 Oklahoma Autism Conference
 Please join the Oklahoma Autism Network for the 2026 Oklahoma Autism Conference on November 12-13th at the OKANA Resort and Conference Center.
This year’s theme, “Strength in Every Story,” recognizes that every individual, family, educator and professional brings a unique perspective that strengthens our communities. Together, these stories shape how we understand autism, improve supports and build more inclusive systems across Oklahoma. Join us at the OKANA Resort & Convention Center in Oklahoma City for an engaging and inspiring conference experience designed to bring people together across disciplines and lived experiences. Attendees will gain practical strategies, hear powerful stories and leave with renewed energy to support meaningful outcomes across the lifespan.
The earlybird registration discount for providers and educators is good through September 2, 2026.
Select this link to register for the 2026 Oklahoma Autism Conference
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Serving and inspiring Oklahoma's students with disabilities is our passion; our purpose. Each month, we hope to highlight a student whose story encourages others.
We have learned that one of the best ways to hear about our most amazing students is from those that spend time with them everyday. So, we encourage family members, education professionals and transition professionals to tell us about students who are doing amazing things.
This month, we shine the spotlight on Elsa, a student at Terra Verde high school. Jeff Newton met with Elsa and talked about summer activities, work experience and cool hang out spots. We learned a lot from Elsa. Here is how the conversation went.
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Meet Elsa
What activity do you enjoy the most during the summer?
Bowling and swimming.
What is your preferred summer drink?
Root Beer.
Have you ever had any prior work experiences or volunteer opportunities before BEST/STEP?
I volunteered at my church, assisting with children during worship services and Vacation Bible School (VBS) and wherever/whenever they need me. I also completed an internship at Not Your Average Joe's.
Could you share your experience with the BEST/STEP program?
I have completed the BEST/STEP program twice. During the summer of 2025, I had a job at the Sunhive Collective. Sunhive Collective was a cool place that helps young adults with intellectual disabilities develop the skills they need to become more independent. While working there, I helped participants learn how to complete cleaning tasks and other daily chores while encouraging them to finish their assigned responsibilities. I also assisted with preparing and serving lunch. I enjoyed this job because I got to hang out with the participants at Sunhive.
This summer, I worked at We Rock the Spectrum, an autism-focused place for kids and my job during the internships was assisting the kids during their activities at the center. I also assisted with lunch at We Rock the Spectrum.
What is something you learned from the BEST/STEP program?
I have learned to ask for help when I need to.
So now that you’ve completed the BEST/STEP program what is your next step?
My goal is to graduate from Terra Verde High School. After completing high school, I hope to get a job and start saving money for my own apartment. I want to eventually get an apartment with a friend because I know how expensive living on your own can be.
What is your dream career?
In the future, I hope to have a career as a dog groomer. I would also love to work at Sunhive Collective, where I can help people and make a difference.
What advice or tips would you like to share with other youth?
Don’t ask other people to ask for you. You must learn to ask for yourself. You must learn to advocate for yourself and ask people yourself.
What is the most significant goal or dream you wish to achieve in your lifetime?
I want to graduate from high school and get a job.
What would you like the world to know about you?
I want them to know that I got adopted when I was nine years old.
Can you share a situation where you've had to adapt to a new environment or learn something new? How did you approach that experience?
When I got adopted, I had to adapt to the new place. I know that Jesus put me in this home for a reason, and I kept telling myself it would be okay and it was okay.
What would be your ideal work environment?
Working inside with other people.
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How to nominate a Student:
If you know a current or former student who has participated in Transition events or who has found success through Transition services, please let us know by submitting this nomination form.
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 Transition Resources
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 Pervasive Parenting Center
The Pervasive Parenting Center is a non-profit organization that launched in January 2014 to help families in eastern Oklahoma find resources available for people living with autism and other disabilities. They are partially funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Services include Autism Screenings, Social Group, Parent Support Groups, Disability Trainings, Peer Mentoring, IEP assistance and training, Sibshops, etc.
If you have questions, please contact Kodey Toney by phone at 918-647-1255 or by email at ktoney@pervasiveparentingcenter.org.
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 Oklahoma Family Network (OFN)
The Oklahoma Family Network (OFN) informs and connects individuals with special health care needs and disabilities, their families, and professionals to services and support in their communities.
Their services are designed for the family of any child who has:
- Spent time in the NICU or was born premature
- Physical disabilities
- Cancer
- Rare or undiagnosed conditions
- Autism
- Cerebral Palsy
- Cystic Fibrosis
- Down Syndrome
- Mental health diagnoses
- Behavioral health concerns
Areas of support include emotional support, resources & training, and leadership & advocacy.
To get connected with OFN, you can send them a message from their website. Link is below.
Select this link to get connected with OFN
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Call for Presenters: 21st Annual Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI) - Deadline is August 15!
The Oklahoma Transition Council (OTC) invites passionate educators, professionals, self-advocates, family members, employers, and community partners to submit proposals for the 21st Annual Oklahoma Transition Institute (OTI). The event takes place October 6–7, 2026, at the Reed Conference Center in Midwest City.
This year's theme: All In: The Power of the Team!
Please help us spread the word! We welcome proposals from anyone with valuable transition-focused knowledge, experiences, and strategies to share. We're looking for engaging breakout sessions, youth panels, and expert panels that equip attendees with practical strategies, innovative ideas, and resources.
They're looking for sessions that:
- Highlight effective, evidence-based, and replicable practices.
- Provide practical tools and resources participants can take back to their schools, agencies and communities.
- Encourage collaboration and teamwork in transition planning and service delivery.
- Support improved post-school outcomes for students with disabilities.
Priority consideration may be given to proposals that align with the Predictors of Post-School Success.
Presentation Details
- Sessions should be 60 minutes in length.
- Presentations will be delivered in person.
- Presenters may submit up to two proposals. To submit multiple proposals, simply complete and submit a separate online form for each session.
Proposal Deadline
August 15, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
All proposals must be submitted through the online proposal form and will be time-stamped upon submission.
Submit your proposal here:
https://bit.ly/OTI2026
Accessibility Commitment
OTI is committed to providing an inclusive conference experience for all participants. As a condition of presenting, all presenters are required to submit presentation materials in an accessible format by the established deadline. This includes, but is not limited to:
- PowerPoint presentations
- Handouts
- Worksheets
- PDF documents
- Videos
- Any other materials shared with attendees
Submitting materials by the deadline allows adequate time for accessibility review and, if needed, remediation before the conference.
Presenters who need assistance creating accessible materials are encouraged to use the resources available on the ABLE Tech’s website. These resources guide creating accessible Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and PDF formats.
Plan Your Way OK is a Transition-centered website that has a wealth of information for students, families, professionals and businesses.
Select this link to visit the Plan Your Way OK website
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Rhiannon Patterson is vocational rehabilitation counselor in the DRS Chickasha office. She started in her role as an intern where she discovered a rewarding profession in which she could thrive. A successful internship experience led her to move into a permanent role with DRS.
She is from Temple, Oklahoma and is a Southwestern Oklahoma State University graduate. She has a Master of Education in School Counseling and an Education Specialist in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
Growing up, Rhiannon had opportunities to assist peers with disabilities. This is when she discovered a passion for helping others and learned that she was really good at it. She is thriving in her role at the agency and for someone so talented and early in her career, the agency will certainly provide opportunities for personal and professional growth that allow her to continue serving students with disabilities.
Rhiannon is a smart, energetic, passionate and helpful professional. We are lucky to have her on the team.
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 Rhiannon Patterson
Vocational Rehabilitation Specialist
Vocational Rehabilitation
ph. 405-574-1702
Rhiannon.Patterson@okdrs.gov
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What is Transition?
The Transition program provides services to prepare students with disabilities for employment and life after high school. Services may include career counseling, vocational evaluation, work adjustment training, on-the-job training, work-study, and job development and placement. The Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired divisions jointly run the Transition program so the youth can easily move into adult services when it is time.
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We can help create the blueprint for your youth’s success |
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