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First published online January 24, 2026
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Strategies for Facilitating Transportation to Community-Based Work Experiences

Stacy K. Dymond https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3278-4861 [email protected], Melanie Phelan, […], Jessica E. Sipovic, Nicole L. Birri https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6081-0780, Jane M. Collins, and James Mayer+3View all authors and affiliations
Volume 5, Issue 2
https://doi.org/10.1177/27324745251404039

Abstract

Work-based learning experiences support students with extensive support needs to prepare for post-school employment. Although these experiences can occur in the school or community, experiences in the community are particularly important for students with extensive support needs because they provide opportunities to learn in natural settings and under real work conditions. A common barrier to offering community-based work experiences is lack of transportation. In this article, we share strategies transition personnel in Illinois found effective for overcoming existing transportation barriers. We also include tips for providing hands-on work-based learning experiences when reliable transportation options are not yet available.

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Biographies

Stacy K. Dymond, PhD, is professor of special education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and director of the Illinois Center for Transition and Work. Her research focuses on secondary curriculum and transition from school to work for students with extensive support needs.
Melanie Phelan, MEd, is a training specialist at the Illinois Center for Transition and Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Prior to joining ICTW, Melanie was a principal and transition specialist for a transition program in Bolingbrook, IL.
Jessica E. Sipovic, MEd, is a training specialist with the Illinois Center for Transition and Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Before joining ICTW, she served as the transition manager for Chicago Public Schools.
Nicole L. Birri, EdD, is a training specialist at the Illinois Center for Transition and Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Prior to joining ICTW, she held teaching and research roles in special education focused on transition and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities.
Jane M. Collins, MEd, is a training specialist at the Illinois Center for Transition and Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. She previously served as the program administrator for a school to work transition program in Normal, IL.
James Mayer, MS, CRC/retired, is a training specialist at the Illinois Center for Transition and Work at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Prior to joining ICTW, he coordinated transition and work experiences for youth with disabilities and supported employment services for adults with disabilities across Illinois.
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