Melding Interests with Abilities

The Georgia Career and Technical Instruction (CTI) is an organization that provides opportunities for students with disabilities to learn self-advocacy, career exploration and the necessary skills to transition from high school to a career. Every year, the CTI hosts an annual conference in conjunction with the Georgia National Fair in Perry, Georgia. DHS Special Education Teacher Marca Tigner thinks the annual event is an important opportunity for her students to learn about potential career paths and to compete with their peers in four skills-based competitions. Through a DEF grant matched by SEPTA (Special Education PTA), 25 high school students attended the conference and the state fair in October. Attendees had fun meeting other Georgia high school students, but they learned a lot too. One attendee wrote, “I enjoyed the classes they gave so much that I will be running for office in the spring. I like socializing with people all over Georgia, and I like the workout room at the hotel.” Another student said, “I learned how to prepare for a job interview. I enjoyed meeting new people. I enjoyed the pool. I also enjoyed the banquet.”