Dutchess ARC works cooperatively with local school districts to implement community based vocational experiences that are responsive to a student's needs, interests and abilities as articulated in the Individual Education Plan (IEP). This is accomplished by providing opportunities for career exploration and work-study.

Career Exploration exposes students to the world of work. Over the course of a year, small groups of students and their job mentor spend time working at a variety of local businesses. Students gain insight through job shadowing, talking with employers and employees, and actual work activities. In conjunction with Career Exploration, academics remain the primary focus.

Independent Work-Study continues the student's exposure to the world of work. Students are placed in a business that provides them with opportunities to learn new skills and enhance old ones. These work assignments correspond to the strengths and interests of the student. A job coach provides support that varies from frequent interaction at the start of the job to periodic visits as the student's level of independence and confidence grows.

Dutchess ARC's Summer Work Program offers paid work experiences at businesses in the community to qualified students so they may continue to focus on sharpening work skills and the refinement of work behaviors during the summer months.

During the last six months of a student's final year of school, staff from Dutchess ARC's Career Options collaborates with the student, his/her family, the [VESID] counselor, and teachers to assist with the transition into adult services.

For more information on Employment and Vocational services, please call (845) 471-8876, or e-mail us at info@dutchess-arc.org.