INDIANA – Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) is making updates to Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) this spring. These changes are designed to strengthen the program and make it more consistent for students, families, and schools across the state.
Because some misinformation has been circulating, we want to be very clear:
Pre-ETS is not going away.
Pre-ETS remains a required and essential service for students with disabilities. Indiana is not reducing or eliminating Pre-ETS. We are improving how it is delivered so students receive high-quality, meaningful support as they prepare for life after high school.
What Families Can Expect
Pre-ETS Activities Are Staying the Same
Students will continue to receive the five required Pre-ETS activities:
- Job Exploration Counseling
- Work-Based Learning Experiences
- Postsecondary Counseling
- Workplace Readiness Training
- Self Advocacy Instruction
These services help students explore careers, build skills, and plan for their future.
Stronger Focus on Career Goals
Every student will now connect Pre-ETS activities to an individualized vocational goal. This helps ensure that services are purposeful and aligned with the student’s IEP transition plan.
Clearer Structure for Service Hours
Beginning in March, students will receive a set number of Pre-ETS hours each semester based on age. This helps ensure fair access and consistent expectations across Indiana.
A New Tool: The Student Career Profile (SCP)
Launched in January, the Student Career Profile is a new resource that helps track a student’s interests, strengths, and progress over time. It serves as a bridge between Pre-ETS activities and school-based transition planning. The SCP is updated at intake, each semester, and after summer programming.
Continued Collaboration With Schools
Schools will continue to identify students, share transition information, and work closely with VR and providers. Youth VR Counselors remain the primary point of contact for families and educators.
Why These Updates Matter
These improvements help ensure that every student receives:
- Consistent, high-quality support
- Activities tied to real career interests
- Services that complement school-based transition planning
- Opportunities that prepare them for employment, training, or college
Indiana remains deeply committed to supporting students with disabilities as they move toward adulthood.
Families, schools, and community partners are welcome to reach out with questions to Jonathan Kraeszig, VR Director of Youth Services at jonathan.kraeszig@fssa.in.gov.
