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January 2025

Winter Goals, Bright Futures: Transition Planning in the New Year

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As we welcome a new year and the crisp January air invigorates our spirits, it’s the perfect time to set intentions for the months ahead. January offers a season of possibility and growth—an opportunity to reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and challenges while looking forward with renewed energy and purpose. This month, the Zarrow Institute is excited to share resources to help you kick off 2025 on the right foot:

  • TAGG-MS
  • ELEVATE Doctoral Consortium Program
  • Zarrow Summer Institute
  • Sooner Works and SPARK360°upcoming application deadlines
  • Oklahoma DRS Newsletter Information
  • Employer Survey
  • Transition in Practice first issue and call for submissions

For more information, visit the newsletter page on our website!

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Stay Connected with Transition Resources: Subscribe to the OKDRS Transition Monthly Newsletter!


The Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services (OKDRS) Transition newsletter is a helpful resource that is distributed at the beginning of each month. It is mainly for transition professionals, DRS staff, educators, families, students with disabilities, and other interested community members. The newsletter includes upcoming events, student success stories, information on Transition partners and resources, and it introduces important and involved Transition professionals. If you have not already signed up, you can do so here. 


Subscribe to the OKDRS Newsletter

Application Deadline Extended!


ELEVATE Transition: Equipping Learning, Empowering Vision, Achieving Transitions, & Engaging Families


This Doctoral Leadership Consortium program aims to develop scholars in the field of special education with expertise in transition services to enhance outcomes for students with disabilities using culturally responsive practices. The University Consortium includes the University of Oklahoma, University of Connecticut, University of Arkansas, University of Kansas, Sam Houston State University, and Ohio State University.

Watch the Recorded Info Session
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Download the Flyer 

Explore New Horizons: Exciting Research Opportunities Await!

Green and white graphic with text. Text reads TAGG-MS, Transition Assessment and Goal Generator Middles School. Help Us Finalize a New Transition Assessment for Middle School Students With Mild to Moderate Disabilities.

TAGG-Middle School Field Testing


Participate in the next step of field testing for the TAGG-Middle School assessment for students with mild-to-moderate disabilities and receive $30 per completed assessment set. Learn more about the field testing on our website.

TAGG MS Field Test #2
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Last Call: Employer Perspectives on Employability Skills


Don't wait until it's too late! Complete this brief survey on employment skills among entry-level workers, focusing on individuals with and without disabilities, and enter to win one of ten $25 Amazon gift cards!

Complete the Employer Survey

Introducing the Transition in Practice Journal: Read the First Issue and Submit Your Work! 


We are thrilled to introduce the Transition in Practice Journal, a new platform dedicated to exploring the practical aspects of transition across sectors and disciplines. Our inaugural issue features insightful articles, case studies, and thought pieces that bridge the gap between theory and practice, offering actionable insights and real-world examples. Whether you're a practitioner, researcher, or simply curious about the field, the journal provides valuable tools and perspectives for navigating and implementing transitions effectively.


Additionally, we are now calling for submissions for future issues! If you have research or insights to share, we encourage you to contribute to this growing body of knowledge. Join us in advancing the conversation and making an impact in the field of transition.

View the Inugural Issue
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Submit your Work
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Zarrow Summer Institute 2025


Dreaming of summer weather? So are we! Get ready for Zarrow Summer Institute 2025 on Tuesdays in June and July from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM CDT. Dive into dynamic sessions, hands-on workshops, and unbeatable networking. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, there's something here for you! Connect with peers, learn from top experts, and walk away with fresh insights to boost your skills and knowledge related to transition and self-determination skills.

Purchase your ticket now!

Sooner Works and SPARK360° Applications

Image of three students wearing graduation gowns cheering. Text reads "Sooner works the University of Oklahoma, 2025/2026 school year. Now accepting applications. Applications due February 1, 2025".
Red background with image of young black woman wearing a light blue shirt. Text reads "OU SPARK360 the University of Oklahoma. Autism Support Program. Apply now! Accepting applications for spring 2025 through 2/1/2025".

About Sooner Works

Sooner Works at the University of Oklahoma is a comprehensive, four-year program for students with intellectual or developmental disabilities seeking a college experience. Participants live on campus, engage in regular and specialized courses, complete internships, and develop essential skills for independent living, integrated employment, and community involvement.


Applications for 2025-2026 are due February 1st!

Apply Now!

About SPARK360°


SPARK360° is an Autism Support Program for college students at OU, which launched in Fall 2023, emphasizing support, partnership, advocacy, resources, and knowledge. The program provides full-circle support for participating students through academic planning, transition support, employment skills, independent living, and social development. 


Spring 2025 Applications are due February 1st!




Apply Now!