Assessment Toolkit

Significant Role of Adult

It is important for students to have strong relationships with adults to plan for life after high school. Students need someone that recognizes and supports their dreams, strengths, and talents to help them reach their goals and work through life’s challenges.

What makes adult roles significant?

Significant adults are those who:

Are trusted and respected by students
Take an individualized approach with students
Meet students where they currently are in life
Help students continue to learn about themselves
Recognize dreams, strengths, talents and needs of students
Encourage students to make decisions, solve problems and have their own voice
Provide students with honest feedback

Helping students with disabilities transition into adulthood

Youth Development, Bringing it All together

Relationships are Key! Adults can help students bring these six skill areas together:

Self Management Skill Development
Disability Awareness
Independent Living Skills Development
Leadership Skills Development
Self-Determination Skill Development
Self Awareness

Youth Development, Bringing it All together Image

What Can Significant Relationships With Adult Mentors Do For Students?

Students can benefit from strong relationship with adults in many ways, including:

Building Relationships

Adults can introduce students to opportunities that match their goals after high school, including careers and more education.

Skill Development

Adults can teach students real-world skills to succeed at work, in school, and beyond.

Respect

Adults can support students in knowing that adults respect their opinions, goals, interests and values.

Trust

Adults can help build trust by knowing that the adults at school, home and work are always focused on making sure students have what they need to be successful and independent.