GUELPH – Upper Grand District School Board (UGDSB) families of students with intellectual and developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder are invited to an upcoming virtual series – Creating Connection and Supporting Transitions.
This series is designed to equip caregivers with the tools and knowledge needed to support their youth as they transition through and beyond the school years.
The series, which runs from September to May 2026, will provide information on critical topics such as service coordination, transition planning, employment readiness, independent living, and building lifelong community networks.
It is open to caregivers of UGDSB students in Kindergarten through to Grade 12.
“We know that transitions can be complex — but you’re not alone,” UGDSB officials stated in a press release.
“Together, we’ll learn how to create strong plans, strengthen student voice, and make sure no opportunity is missed.”
The first session is set for Sept 25 at 6:30 and will “explore how to support student voice, identity and self determination from an early age – and why it’s essential for future success.”
It will include guest speaker Angela Catcher, who works with high school students with disabilities at the UGDSB.
The second session is set for Oct. 29 from 12 to 1pm and will focus on Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) – what it is, how to apply it, and reasons to consider it.
The guest speaker will be Sarah Wardell the CICE program manager at Conestoga College.
On Nov. 26 there will be a session with guest speaker Ashlyn Northfield from 12 to 1pm. Topics will include education, employment, independent living, social integration and community supports and services.
For more information, including a link to Microsoft Teams for the virtual sessions and details about 2026 sessions, visit ugdsb.ca/article/11159.
