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 The Journey of a DRS Client
Whether you're a student with a disability, an education professional, a parent or caregiver, or a DRS counselor, it is helpful to understand what DRS clients should expect when working with our agency. When everyone is on the same page, it makes the delivery of services and resources a much smoother process.
As a result of VR services, thousands whose disabilities kept them from working become taxpayers each year, eliminating or reducing their need for disability benefits and social assistance. This is especially important for Oklahoma's students with disabilities.
High school age students with disabilities can get a head start on job training and work experience through DRS’ Transition and Pre-Employment Transition Services. These programs are offered free of charge by VR and SBVI.
The journey of being a DRS client includes six distinct phases. Those phases include applying for VR services, evaluating your disability, determining eligibility, planning your services and receiving VR services. The final step (and ultimate goal) of the DRS client's journey is gaining employment. The final step is exciting for everyone and DRS staff can be available to help with starting and keeping the job.
If you have questions about becoming a DRS client, you can download and complete an application from the link below. To contact your local DRS office and to learn where to submit your application, link to the DRS Office Finder tool using the link below. We look forward to helping however we can!
Select this link to download a DRS application for services
Select this link to open the DRS Office Locator tool
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Calendar |
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September 17-18: ORA 2026 Annual Training Conference
Oklahoma Rehabilitation Association (ORA) will be holding the annual ORA training conference this year at the Hard Rock Hotel in Tulsa. The theme of this year's training is Authentic Connection in a Digital World. Join this exciting training event to learn new concepts and effective approaches for navigating the sometimes challenging world of digital literacy in the workplace. Make connections with others, share ideas and have a good time!
**Registration ends September 1 and refunds not available after this day.
Registration pricing options include:
• Members - $200.00
• Non-members - $225.00
• Students - $125.00
Select this link to register for the ORA 2026 Annual Training Conference
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September 30-October 2: 2026 Oklahoma Works Conference
The Oklahoma Works Conference will include important content for all partners in workforce development. Targeted workshops include:
Case Management, Skills Based Hiring, EEO/Accessibility, Apprenticeships, Financial/Infrastructure, HSE Testing Vendors, Adult Education and Family Literacy Program Strategies, Special Populations, Career Pathways, Expunging Records, OKCareerGuide and Mental Health Strategies.
Select this link for more information and to register for the 2026 Oklahoma Works Conference
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October 1: 2026 Oklahoma Rural Health Conference
The conference brings together members of the Rural Health Association of Oklahoma (RHAO) and the Telehealth Alliance of Oklahoma (TAO), the Oklahoma Turning Point Coalition (OTPC), and stakeholders of the Oklahoma Office of Rural Health (OORH). It is expected to attract more than 300 healthcare professionals from rural and underserved areas of the state. A variety of sponsorship levels are available.
Regular conference activities begin on the morning of Thursday, October 1st and conclude the afternoon of Friday, October 2nd. This year the conference will be held at Stoney Creek in Broken Arrow, Okla. An Awards Reception, honoring healthcare professionals from across the state, will be held the evening prior to the conference, on September 30th, following exhibitor set-up. This event will be semi-formal and will honor awards recipients from all three organizations and is free and open to all exhibitors and attendees of the conference. The annual Cornhole Tournament will be held at the venue on the evening of October 1st. This tournament is very popular and provides an opportunity to participate or cheer on your favorite team and serves as an amazing networking event.
Join them as they recognize the best and brightest serving the health care needs of rural Oklahoma and learn from experts in the field. The complete conference agenda will be available soon.
Attendee Profile
Attendees include decision-makers, such as hospital administrators, rural health practitioners, FQHC administrators, advocates, public health professionals, public health and telehealth professionals, and more. Oklahomans from all over the state attend, with the attendance growing yearly. In 2025, more than 340 attendees participated in the conference.
Select this link to register for the 2026 Oklahoma Rural Health Conference
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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
Select this link to download the flyer for 2026 Oklahoma Transition Institute
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November 12-13: 2026 Oklahoma Autism Conference
Please join the Oklahoma Autism Network for the 2026 Oklahoma Autism Conference on November 12-13 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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Spotlight a Student |
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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 every day. 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 Elleah, a senior at Jenks High School. Tracy Keely met with her and talked about work experience, her favorite snacks and making clothes for animals. Here is how the conversation went.
Meet Elleah
Where do you go to High School?
I go to Jenks High School. I will graduate at the end of this year.
What work experience do you have?
I worked at a store called Mercantile. I also worked at the Renaissance Hotel. I worked in the laundry department. I have also worked at Running Dogs Music. I tuned and cleaned instruments.
Tell me about your most recent work experience.
This summer I worked at the Renaissance Hotel. One thing I really liked was that I got to do a variety of jobs. I didn’t just have to stay in the laundry department. One thing I did not like was that all my work shifts were scheduled in the morning. I learned I need to work afternoon or evening shifts in the future.
What are your interests and hobbies?
When I have free time, I like to draw and do crafts. I also like to play games, both video and board. I like to play Mindcraft and Clue.
What do you want to do when you grow up?
I want to work with animals. I am also exploring fashion as a career. Maybe I can combine them and make clothes for animals!
What are your plans for after you graduate?
I am either going to get a job or go to a trade school.
What is your favorite drink?
My favorite drinks are Coke, Sprite and sparkling flavored water.
What is your favorite thing to eat?
My favorite thing to eat is a dish my mom makes with chicken and pork rinds. They are like little nuggets.
What advice or tips would you like to share with other youth?
My advice is to never give up on your dreams.
What is your favorite class at school?
Choir.
What would you like the world to know about you?
I would like the world to know that I am responsible and do not procrastinate.
Is there anyone you’d like to give a shoutout to?
I would like to give a shoutout to EVERYONE!
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Nominate a Student |
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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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Resources |
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Hardesty Transition Academy at A New Leaf
The Hardesty Transition Academy is a two-year comprehensive life and workforce skills college-style program for people with developmental disabilities and autism who are seeking a healthy, happy, independent life.
The mission of the Hardesty Transition Academy is to mentor, model, motivate, and prepare individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism for independent living, competitive workforce wages, and belonging to the community in which they work, live, and grow.
IMPORTANT:
A New Leaf is expanding enrollment for Cohort 4 at the Hardesty Transition Academy and is actively welcoming new students. Families are encouraged to apply now to secure a spot. The Hardesty Transition Academy provides young adults with developmental disability or autism with the tools, support, and real-world experience needed to build independence, pursue employment goals, and achieve greater success in life.
Select this link to view admissions criteria and procedures
Select this link to visit Hardesty Transition Academy webpage
Select this link to view Hardesty Transition Academy videos
If you have any additional questions, contact Samuel Hawk, Recruitment, Admissions and Case Management Specialist at sam.hawk@anewleaf.org.
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Center for Learning and Leadership
The Center for Learning and Leadership (CLL) is Oklahoma's federally recognized University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, located at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Campus in Oklahoma City. The CLL is designed to provide evidenced based information on best practices for supporting people living with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families. They do this through advocacy, capacity building and systems change.
They have several products that support individuals making transitions across the life span, whether a transition from early intervention services to preschool or the transition from high school to employment or post high school education. The Guide to Community Services in Oklahoma is available on our website and free to download. Additionally, the CLL offers the Employment Supports Indicator, which is a tool to assist with identifying workplace support and accommodations that a person with a disability may have as they seek employment. Visit ouhsc.edu/thecenter to learn more about our projects and to find our publications for download.
Contact Wanda Felty, Assistant Director, wanda-felty@ouhsc.edu, or Miranda Hooper, (Community Education Coordinator), Miranda-hooper@ouhsc.edu.
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Prospective Student Days for IPSE programs!
Please mark your calendars for the upcoming Inclusive Post Secondary Education (College!) program Prospective Student Days. These scheduled events are a great way to learn about each IPSE program, meet staff and hear from students!
IPSE programs support students with intellectual/developmental disabilities in the areas of independence, social engagement, academics and employment readiness.
Dates for each include:
NSU/RiverHawk Scholars Program, Tahlequah Campus: Lunch and Learns: August 28th, September 25th and October 23rd from noon -2:00 p.m.
Registration Link:
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Introducing... |
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Brooke Mason is a Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) disability coordinator with Kiamichi Technology Center. She has worked there since 2023, when she joined the team as a Pre-ETS specialist. Brooke also spent many years in special education and was the assistant director for OAKS R.S.C. for 18 years. She is very passionate about this field of work and hopes to continue to grow professionally while serving youth/students with disabilities.
She has been married for 21 years, and her husband is also an educator with McAlester Public Schools. They are proud parents of two children who are also pursuing careers focused on helping others. Certainly, in their family the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.
Brooke holds master’s degrees in special education and school counseling. Some of her greatest accomplishments include being honored as the 2023 McAlester Public Schools Teacher of the Year and when she was selected as an American Fidelity Teacher of the Game for the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2024. Anyone who has worked with Brooke can appreciate all she brings to the table personally and professionally.
She recognizes the need for helping young people plan for their future. She said that, “Seeing their growth, determination, and accomplishments helps me focus on what truly matters—encouraging them, supporting their goals and helping them recognize all they are capable of achieving.”
Brooke is an experienced, friendly, helpful and committed disability advocate and education professional. We are lucky to have her as part of our team.
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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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