23rd Annual WI Transition Conference
Date: February 13-14, 2025
Location: Kalahari Resort and Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells, WI
Schedule 
This schedule is subject to change. Registrants will receive a conference program at conference check in.
Click on the dates below to view a specific date.
Thursday, February 13, 2025
7:30 am - 9:00 am
Check In, Light Breakfast, Networking, ExhibitorsSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
9:00 am - 9:15 am
Welcome: Mr. Patrick Vavra, CESA 11, EdEvents DirectorSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
9:15 am - 10:30 am
Dr. Shelley MooreSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
Dr. Shelley Moore. Is a teacher, researcher, speaker, and storyteller with a background in inclusive and special education, curriculum, and teacher professional development. She works with school districts and community organizations locally, nationally, and internationally to support practical, evidence-based approaches to increase access for all learners. Dr Moore offers a variety of opportunities for classroom, school, district, and systems-level learning.
10:30 am - 10:45 am
Break: Exhibitors, NetworkingSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
11:45 am - 12:15 pm
Photos, Meet and GreetSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
12:15 pm - 1:05 pm
Lunch: Included with RegistrationSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
1:10 pm - 2:00 pm
1. The Power of Student-Led IEPs: Fostering Self-Advocacy and EngagementAralia
Presenters: Heidi Cumbajin (Transition Coordinator); Julie Mlagan (Implementation Specialist)Many students with disabilities play little to no role in their own Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings and the planning of their services, accommodations, and goals. However, research shows that when students lead their own IEP meetings, they become more engaged in their education, learn important self-advocacy skills, and take greater ownership over their learning. Student-led IEPs promote self-determination and give students a greater sense of control over their education.
Level: Beginner2. Transition Programming Beyond Age 18 Guidance OverviewTamboti/Aloeswood
Presenters: Alicia Reinhard (Education Consultant on Transition And Graduation); Michelle LeBas-Bowen (Transition Coordinator and Speech Pathologist); Morgan Cherney (High School Special Education Teacher); Shelley Burke Otto (TIG Transition Specialist )Join us for an introductory session on the Transition Programming Beyond Age 18 guidance. We will explore the importance and why of the guidance, provide insights on how to effectively operationalize, and discuss creating individualized transition programming. Attendees will hear from educators in the field who are successfully using the guidance.
3. Lets Get Creative with Self-Care: Wellness StrategiesBanyan
Presenters: Joseph Crivello (Community Partnership Specialist); Paul Mross (Community Partnership Specialist)Join TMG and self-advocate(s) as they share creative ways to practice self-care through self-direction. Learn how practicing self-care and self-direction has made their lives healthier, fuller, and more meaningful. Learn how self-care techniques can open new doors to wonderful opportunities, meeting new people in your community and making new friends. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore different self-care techniques that can be practiced improving physical and mental health.
Level: Beginner4. Student Led IEPsCypress
Presenters: Jenny Jacobs (TIG Technical Assistance Specialist); Melissa Volz (Beyond 18 Program Coordinator)Student involvement in their IEP is crucial for developing self-advocacy skills, understanding their disability & IEP, requesting accommodations, and participating in their transition planning. It empowers students and fosters self-determination. Students can participate in a variety of ways that are comfortable to them, from completing introductions, sharing work, to sharing their goals, and facilitating the IEP meeting. You will hear from people in the field who are using student led IEPs.
Level: Beginner5. One Student, One Journey: A Story of Success Through CollaborationMangrove
Presenters: Aidan Pacheco (Student); Cortney Michaels (Workforce Development Specialist); Erin O'Leary (Work Based Learning Liaison); Liz Licary (Talent Acquisition Specialist); Michelle Meier (Special Education Teacher); Shana Ratzburg (Technical Assistance Transition Specialist)Transitioning from high school to postsecondary education and the workforce can be challenging for students with learning disabilities. This session highlights the inspiring journey of a student who achieved success with the support of a strong network of transition partners. Participants will learn how collaboration between key transition partners can pave the way for meaningful postsecondary outcomes.
Level: Beginner6. Developing Student-Run Businesses as a Stepping Stone to Employer-Paid JobsMarula
Presenters: Corey Fineran (Co-Founder/ CEO); Lindsay Zerull (Co-Founder/ Content Director)Participating in a student-run business offers students hands-on learning to build essential work skills for competitive employment. This presentation will guide educators in developing, implementing, and assessing impactful student enterprises aimed at fostering future self-sufficiency. Attendees will receive practical tips, resources, and real-world insights to navigate challenges, ultimately equipping them to create meaningful learning experiences that prepare students for the workforce.
Level: Intermediate2:05 pm - 2:55 pm
7. Empowering All Students: Making CTE Accessible and EquitableAralia
Presenters: Barb Tenin (Special Education Supervisor); Robin Scholz (Implementation Specialist)NTACT:C cites Career and Technical Education as a vital part of transition planning to increase post school outcomes for students with disabilities. Yet, a recent study suggests that these students have a lack of awareness of career readiness activities or believe that they should not participate in them. Join us as we highlight one high school's journey to expose students with disabilities to career-based learning experiences both within the school and community.
Level: Beginner8. The Transition from Children’s Long-Term Care Supports to the IRIS ProgramSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
Presenters: Amanda Flater (IRIS Consultant Team Manager); Tara Ditter (CLTS Program Supervisor, Outagamie County)The transition process from Children’s Long-Term Supports to Adult Long-Term Care can be intimidating, confusing and frustrating. Hear from professionals in the Children’s Long-Term Care Supports program and the IRIS program on the similarities and differences between the two programs, what to expect during the transition process, and what resources are available to assist you and your family throughout the process.
Level: Intermediate9. Transition Beyond Age 18: Common Questions & SolutionsTamboti/Aloeswood
Presenters: Alicia Reinhard (Education Consultant on Transition And Graduation); Jeannine Pfeifer (Beyond 18 Teacher); Kathleen Dart (Transition Teacher/Coordinator); Melissa Volz (Beyond 18 Program Coordinator); Shelley Burke Otto (TIG Transition Specialist )Join us as we go deeper into Beyond 18 Transition Programming as we talk through some common challenges, share ideas and collaborate around building effective individualized programming. You’ll hear from educators across the state, including those working in both rural and suburban communities, who are working in Beyond 18.
10. Autistic Young People: Quality of Life and Share Decision-Making DiscussionBanyan
Presenters: Clyde Fruits (Student); Hunter Markle (Self Advocate); Timothy Markle (Director)Two young people will discuss how they have, or have not, been meaningfully engaged as decision-makers on their paths to adulthood and as advocates in their communities. Clyde and Hunter share a passion for advocacy. They are looking forward to sharing what they have learned so you can help you students become better self-advocates and advocates for others. They bring their lived-experience and ideas and hope to have a discussion around growing advocates.
Level: Beginner11. Connecting Opportunities-The Benefits of the Wisconsin Transition AppCypress
Presenters: Jenny Jacobs (TIG Technical Assistance Specialist ); Kathryn Erickson (Transition Coordinator)Learn about strategies for effectively engaging youth and families in transition planning through the use of the TIG's WiTransition App. Hear how one district encourages students and families to complete the app before the IEP Team meeting. Practice using the app and dive into the essential resources, which serve as valuable tools for promoting self-direction and self-advocacy among students and families in Wisconsin. The application aligns closely with the PTP.
Level: Beginner12. Unlocking Insights: Leveraging Indicator 13 Data for Meaningful Transition Mangrove
Presenters: Lisa Van Dyke (Evaluation Specialist); Megan Roark (Implementation and Improvement Specialist); Tracy Wozniak (Specialized Services Regional Manager)This presentation will emphasize the critical role of data in creating effective, individualized transition plans for students with disabilities. It will focus on the use of Indicator 13 to improve the quality and relevance of Postsecondary Transition Plans. Attendees will learn how to use the Answer Detail Report and multiple data sources to align student goals in employment, education, and independent living with measurable transition services and outcomes.
Level: Intermediate13. From Guidance to Graduation: Empowering Students through MentoringMarula
Presenters: Jen DuMond (Statewide Implementation and Improvement Specialist); Jennifer Hilgendorf (Statewide Implementation and Improvement Project Coordinator); Lisa Goff (School Psychologist and District Mentoring Coordinator)Mentoring is an Evidence Based Practice that can be implemented to improve graduation rates and post school outcomes for students with IEPs. Participants will hear about the research behind mentoring as well as practical tools to build a successful mentoring program within their district/school. Finally participants will learn about a district's success in supporting students through the implementation of an evidence based mentoring program to fidelity.
Level: Beginner2:55 pm - 3:15 pm
Break: Snack, Networking, ExhibitorsSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
3:15 pm - 3:45 pm
DPI: Transition UpdatesSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
Alicia Reinhard, from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, will provide us with any new and pertinent news in the world of transitions.
Friday, February 14, 2025
7:30 am - 8:30 am
Breakfast, Networking, ExhibitorsSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
8:30 am - 8:45 am
Welcome Back: Patrick Vavra, EdEventsSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
8:45 am - 10:15 am
Dr. Mary MorningstarSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
Mary E. Morningstar, PhD, is the new co-director of PSU’s ThinkCollege Inclusion Oregon project in the Special Education Department, and teaches courses for preservice students focused on transition and post-secondary outcomes. She has a BSEd in special education from the University of Georgia, an MEd in special education from the University of Maryland, and a PhD from the University of Kansas. Morningstar’s research encompasses three interrelated concentrations: college and career readiness for youth with disabilities, teacher education and professional development, and secondary inclusive educational reform. She is the author of The Educator’s Guide to Implementing Transition Planning and Services (2017), and over 40 peer-reviewed journal articles, numerous book chapters, monographs, and technical reports.
10:15 am - 10:35 am
BreakSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
10:40 am - 11:45 am
Dr. Mary Morningstar: WorkshopSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
12:00 pm - 12:50 pm
Lunch, Networking & ExhibitsSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
12:55 pm - 1:45 pm
14. Finding Free and Easy Resources for Developing Work-Based Learning PlanTamboti/Aloeswood
Presenter: Everett Grady (Founder)The demand for work-based learning (WBL) opportunities for students is growing rapidly. With ADVANCE CTE new National Career Cluster Framework, schools and businesses recognize the need and value of expanding the hands-on, real-world experience in preparing students for the workforce. Establishing a high-quality WBL program has become a priority. However, creating these programs can seem overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be daunting—what’s needed is a strong community plan.
15. On Your Marq- Support for Neurodivergent College Students Aralia
Presenter: Emily Raclaw (Director, On Your Marq)On Your Marq is a college success program designed to assist neurodivergent students in navigating the college landscape at Marquette University. The program focuses on students’ transition to the rigors of academia as well as works with students to identify strengths and skills to transfer to life after college. We will share information about our program as well as provide a model for other programs in development. This session will also address the increasing need for similar programs.
Level: Beginner16. Most Students Can Take College Classes in High School - Five examplesBanyan
Presenter: Jennifer Powell (Transition Coordinator)In this presentation I will share five different college experiences that students have enjoyed. I will share the different funding sources that I used including Start College Now, Early College Credit Program, High School Academies, WIOA, Self-pay, and District Special Education Funding. I will also give some tips to check for college readiness in high school as well as strategies to begin planning.
Level: Beginner17. Creating Meaningful Connections Utilizing Team Building & Leadership ActiviCypress
Presenter: Brian Kenney (Consultant )Developing meaningful and purposeful connections to others is crucial to being a good team player. Learn to connect to others while working on critical thinking and problem-solving skill sets. Learning the value of connecting with others will increase your leadership skills and allow you to become career and life-ready. This session will involve hands-on small and large group sessions to develop strong team-building and leadership skills.
Level: Intermediate18. Utilizing a Micro-Enterprise to Build Employability Skills Mangrove
Presenters: Kris Steinhilber (Transition Skills Assistant ); Mary Beth Connors (Transition Coordinator); Patti Kimball (Transition Skills Manager)In the Oshkosh Area School District, our Transition Team currently runs three micro-enterprises. ( School Cafe's, Brewing Futures Food Truck, "Details Matter" - our new car detailing business). We would like to present on what it takes to successfully start a micro-enterprise, how to run one, and what employability skills we are targeting.
Level: Intermediate19. High Impact Family Engagement Practices: Through The Lens of TransitionMarula
Presenters: Heidi Lehman (Family School Partnership Coordinator); Stephanie Adrihan (Family School Partnership Coordinator); Stephanie Lehman (Family School Partnership Coordinator)Family-school partnerships form the bedrock of IDEA. The transitions students and families experience as they prepare for post secondary options can be confusing and stressful. Participants will leave this session with ideas for how to come together as educators, students and families to develop Postsecondary Transition Plans that help students embark on their journey to success after high school.
1:55 pm - 2:45 pm
20. Bridging Partnerships: Strengthening Collaboration for Effective TransitionSuite 1, 2, 7, 8
Presenters: Jason Glozier (Executive Director); Pam Jenson (TIG Grant Coordinator); Sarah Kuehn (DVR Program and Policy Analyst); Shana Ratzburg (TIG Transition Specialist)Discover how collaboration among school districts, families, youth, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), and Independent Living Centers (ILCs) transform Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) for students with IEPs. This session offers actionable strategies to build and sustain partnerships that foster student success and highlights the essential roles that DVR and ILCs play in the transition process.
Level: Beginner21. Building Students' Futures: Work-Based Learning and Youth ApprenticeshipTamboti/Aloeswood
Presenters: Brooke Holbrook (Director of Career and Life Ready Department); Mallory Bryan (Business Services Consultant); Valerie Brooks (Career and Technical Education Coordinator)Explore how Work-Based Learning can open doors for students with IEPs! This session for educators, parents, and agencies highlights Youth Apprenticeship as an ideal pathway to career success. We’ll discuss critical supports from DVR, WIOA, and Special Education to ensure access to meaningful work experiences. Learn collaborative strategies and resources to empower students for successful transitions into the workforce and beyond.
Level: Beginner22. 18 & Beyond: How Do We Determine Frequency & Delivery of Services?Aralia
Presenters: Danielle Davidsen (Transition-Program Support Teacher); Holly Smith (Principal/Director of Curriculum)A question that arises in a variety of networking, professional development, and family engagement settings is how to best determine frequency and duration of transition services on an individualized basis. In alignment to guidance from DPI and TIG, this presentation will explore early partnership with families, transition assessment, and a service rating tool that all assist in the decision-making process towards braiding school-based services with the student's Post-Secondary Transition Plan.
Level: Intermediate23. Building Bridges: Collaboration of School Nurses & Special Education StaffBanyan
Presenters: Amanda Dehli (School Nurse); Christine Kierzek (Teacher)Starting simple with a class presentation, a collaborative relationship grew between the School Nurse and our Life Skills Classroom. The presentation lead to greater and greater collaboration, participation of students in health programs at the school, and a holistic approach to care that is improving outcomes for all of our students. We will talk about some challenges we faced and how we overcame them, as well as detail how the collaboration worked and it's results.
Level: Intermediate24. 'Can Do' Work ExperienceCypress
Presenters: Jenny Amos (HS Special Ed Teacher); MaryKay Crotteau (HS Special Ed Teacher)Creating a variety of work experience opportunities is essential in providing students with meaningful job skills to help them learn more about themselves and what careers they 'can do' after high school. Learn more about the variety of students I am currently providing work experiences for and how I have tailored it to each student's individual needs.
Level: Beginner25. Behavior Contracts to Support Transition-Aged StudentsMangrove
Presenter: Grant Allen (Assistant Professor)Behavior contracts are an effective method for supporting behavior change in students across the grade span, including transition-aged students, for a variety of behaviors. This presentation will cover what behavior contracts are, what makes behavior contracts effective, and a step-by-step process for how to implement a behavior contract. Participants will have the opportunity to access a professional learning module to support using behavior contracts in educational contexts.
Level: Beginner26. Education and Health Care Transition: Outcomes and Resources (WI and beyondMarula
Presenter: Timothy Markle (Director)In 2024, Wisconsin Title V Program and the Youth Health Transition Initiative led a TA from MCHB to utilize Got Transition to assist Wisconsin and a consortium of states. The effort was designed to improve collaboration between Title V and DPI (and others). Come learn about the our outcomes and the resources that have been co-developed in Wisconsin. We will also highlight work being done from other states in the consortium and then co-develop with participants the next steps in Wisconsin.
Level: Intermediate
