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Youth Self-Advocacy and Empowerment

Youth Self-Advocacy Video


"When you believe in yourself, it's easier to speak up for what you need." - Michael

Michael is a high school junior living in Northeast Ohio. Quick wit and humor are integral to his approach in life. He has been engaged in several alternative learning environments since 4th grade.


He has found support and empowerment with the help of OCECD throughout the last seven years. Michael has been influenced by hearing the stories of others' and realizing that sharing his journey has provided him an opportunity to grow emotionally and mentally while bringing hope to other families in similar situations.

Youth Self-Advocacy

A Guide for Transition Age Youth and Their Families

An Introduction to Transition

Transition refers to the process of moving from high school to the adult world. Beginning at age 14, all students who have IEPs are required to have transition goals developed each year during their IEP meeting.

There are two required transition goal areas: employment and post-secondary education/training. The third transition goal area is independent living which is recommended, but not required.

My Adventures in Youth Empowerment


The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities has an exciting new resource to share for transition age youth! We have created the first installment of our “Youth Empowerment” comic series. This series will focus on empowering transition age youth to become self-advocates. We hope this resource will inform youth about youth empowerment, self-determination, self-advocacy and more.

Stay tuned for more adventures in “Youth Empowerment”!

Youth Resources

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IEP Tips for Teens

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Ohio Youth Leadership Forum

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Ohio College2Career

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IEP Checklist Cover

A Guide for Transition Age Youth and Their Families

An Introduction to Transition

Transition refers to the process of moving from high school to the adult world. Beginning at age 14, all students who have IEPs are required to have transition goals developed each year during their IEP meeting.

 More +