February 2026: Show Yourself Some Love by Investing in Your Future
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Image of DRS Transition masthead with multicolor paint splatters and the Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services logo.
YOUTH, PARENTS, TEACHERS, AND COUNSELORS
Image of map of Oklahoma with color coding.
Oklahoma Mobility Management Program
Mobility management is a transportation program that focuses on meeting community needs through the coordinated use of a variety of transportation providers. It aims to enhance transportation for veterans, older adults, people with disabilities, individuals with lower incomes and so many others improving access to healthy living resources through various transportation coordination The mobility management networks are designed to improve the overall mobility for individuals, regardless of the rider characteristics, mode or geography.
Select this link for Oklahoma Mobility Management Program contact information
Select this link to visit the Oklahoma Mobility Management Program website
Mark Your Calendar
Stay Up-to-date with Transition
February 3 and February 5, 2026: Project SEARCH Enid 2026 Open House
Fyler that says, “Project SEARCH. Open House. February 3rd & 5th, Integris Health Enid Hospital. Project SEARCH provides on-the-job work experience for young adults with disabilities ages 18 – 24 through training and career development. Program Director: Kristy Ramos, kristy.a.ramos-1@ou.edu, 405-482-0820. Various logos.” Three Images of people working.
Project SEARCH provides on-the-job work experience for young adults with disabilities ages 18 - 24 through training and career development. Project SEARCH Enid is having an open house where they will meet those interested in learning more and will answer questions about the program. Please RSVP as soon as possible to reserve a timeslot by contacting Kristy Ramos, Project SEARCH Enid program director. Her phone number is 405-482-0820. She can also be reached by email at kristy.a.ramos-1@ou.edu.
Dates:
February 3, 2026 and February 5, 2026
Location:
Integris Health Enid Hospital
600 Monroe St.
Enid, OK 73701
February 19, 2026: Tulsa Job Corps Community Career and Resource Fair
Flyer that says, “Careers begin here. Logo, Job Corps. Tulsa Job Corps. Community career & resource fair. Date: 19 February, 2026. Time: 12pm-3pm. Tulsa Job Corps Campus, 1133 N. Lewis Ave, Tulsa, OK 74110. 918-830-2824.” Cartoon image of people working with buildings in the background.
Careers begin here. Join Tulsa Job Corps for their Community Career and Resource Fair on February 19, 2026 from 12:00 a.m. through 3:00 p.m. This event will include community resources and community partners focused on helping find meaningful employment. It will take place at the Tulsa Job Corps campus.
Address
1133 N Lewis Ave
Tulsa, OK 74110
*If you have questions please call the Tulsa Job Corps team at 918-830-2824
February is Last Month to Apply for BEST STEP 2026
Flyer that says, “Flyer that says, “BEST Step 2026. Live your best life! Arrows pointing to the words, ‘Build skills’ and ‘Earn money’ with drawing image of people high fiving. Gain summer work experience and improve your job readiness! Takes place June and July, 2026. Applications due by March 2, 2026. Scan QR Code to apply. QR Code. For Students at least 16 years old with a documented disability, a client of DRS, potentially eligible for services due to disability, and returning to school in 2026. For more information: transitionteam@okdrs.gov; 405-951-3463.”
This February, show yourself some love by investing in your future — because the best careers start with BEST STEP. The 2026 application for the popular summer program, BEST STEP, are open. The program is for students who are at least 16-years old with a documented disability, are a client of DRS OR are eligible for services due to disability, AND are returning to school in 2026.
Participants will build valuable skills while having fun and interacting with peers. There will be opportunities to apply for paid internships with employers in their communities. Applications can be submitted through the QR code above or by using the link below.
BEST STEP takes place in June and July 2026
*Applications are due by March 2, 2026
Select this link to apply online for BEST STEP 2026
Select this link for a printable BEST STEP 2026 application
March 27, 2026: Joining Forces Conference - Registration is Now Live
Flyer that says, “Joining forces, family and professional partnerships. Ardmore, Enid, Lawton, OKC, Okmulgee, Poteau, Tulsa, Weatherford. You are invited to attend the 19th annual Joining Forces Conference. Attend in person in Oklahoma City or join us from one of the remote sites across the state! This conference offers meaningful learning and networking opportunities and strengthens support for individuals and families through statewide community partnerships. Registration: (QR Code). March 27,2026.”
Oklahoma Family Network (OFN) invites you to attend the 19th annual Joining Forces Conference on March 27, 2026. Attend in person in Oklahoma City or Join them from one of the remote sites across the state.
This conference offers meaningful learning and networking opportunities and it strengthens support for individuals and families through statewide community partnerships.
Remote sites include Ardmore, Enid, Lawton, Oklahoma City, Okmulgee, Poteau, Tulsa and Weatherford
To register, scan the QR Code above or use the registration link below.
Select this link to register for 2026 Joining Forces conference
Summer 2026 STEM Camp Applications Open
Flyer that says, “Logo, Design and Create S.T.E.M. Camp. 2026. (QR Code) Apply by scanning the above QR code or visit the following link: https://bit.ly/technowstemapply. A partnership between the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services and Tech-Now Inc. Logo, Tech-Now Inc. technowincok@gmail.com. Logo, Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services. rsansom@okdrs.gov. Be part of an on-site STEM Camp in your area. The no cost three day camps are now being planned for the summer. The camps utilize project based learning empathizing STEM Skills such as the use of computer and related technologies to give students pre-employment experiences and skills that will help them prepare for post-high school success. Come and be a part of this awesome opportunity to learn about computer aided design, product development, and what your future can include. Participants must be able to follow verbal instructions with limited support. Lunch and snacks are provided at no cost each day. Design-Create-Compete on both sides of the flyer.” Images of toy cars, hats, a group photo, bracelets, logos and a graph next to the words and letters, “MS: Manufacturing skills, EM: Employment modeling, E: Experimentation.”
Be a part of an on-site STEM Camp in your area. The no cost, three day camps are now being planned and scheduled for the summer. Campers who are a good fit for STEM Camps always have a great time. With so many exciting hands on activities, this is a summer camp students do not want to miss out on. Space is limited so sign up as soon as possible to have the best chance of reserving your spot. Sign up using the QR code above or the link below.
Select this link to sign up for Summer 2026 STEM Camp
Select this link to download the Summer 2026 STEM Camp flyer
March 10: People with Disabilities Awareness Day 2026
Image that says, “SEE ME… not my disability. People With Disabilities Awareness Day 2026. March 10, Oklahoma History Center.”
Join us for People with Disabilities Awareness Day 2026.
PWDAD is a fun filled day for attendees who can share their stories and learn about services for people with disabilities. Over the years, we've watched guests make new connections and reunite with familiar faces.
There will be more than 70 exhibitors available to share information about their services.
It’s also our day to connect with lawmakers and tell them about the services that benefit people with disabilities. And you don’t want to miss the awards program where we honor outstanding programs and individuals.
At PWDAD, you will meet new people, make professional contacts and friends, and see your coworkers outside of the office. It's the best day of the year, so don't miss out.
We will be at the Oklahoma History Center on March 10. So, mark your calendars and join in the fun with us.
We have the best volunteers ever who will be there to assist you.
Pre-registration will speed you through the line the day of the event. Register yourself, your family and your friends.
Select this link to register for People with Disabilities Awareness Day 2026
June 21-27: 2026 Level Up Conference
Image that says, “’Envision’ next to an image of two hands making the shape of an eye. ‘Level’ next to an arrow pointing up.”
Developed in 2006 to address the learning gap between students who are blind or visually impaired and their sighted peers, the Level Up Program partners with teachers, families, assistive technology professionals, community professionals, colleges and universities to guide students as they set goals and achieve success. This comprehensive national program provides access to ongoing support and resources for students who are blind or visually impaired at every stage of their education.
Select this link to register for the 2026 Level Up Conference
Meet the great and wonderful…
Student/Youth Spotlight
Serving and inspiring Oklahoma's students with disabilities is our passion; our purpose. Each month, we hope to highlight a student whose story encourages others.
We have learned that one of the best ways to hear about our most amazing students is from those that spend time with them everyday. So, we encourage family members, education professionals and transition professionals to tell us about students who are doing amazing things.
This month, we shine the spotlight on Ocie, an Oklahoma School for the Blind graduate. He and Tracy Keely talked about video games, having a sense of humor and the importance of giving good advice. Here is how the conversation went.
Meet Ocie
Image of Ocie
How old are you?
I am 18 years old.
Where did you go to High School?
I graduated from the Oklahoma School for the Blind in May 2025.
What are your interests and hobbies?
I like playing video games. I also like coloring and other artsy stuff.
What is your favorite season and why?
My favorite season is Winter. I like to bundle up and stay warm when it is cold outside.
What is your preferred drink?
My favorite drink is tea. I like both unsweet and sweet tea. Sweet tea is my favorite.
Have you ever had any prior work experience or volunteer opportunities?
Yes, I have a lot of work experience. I have been able to work a lot of different jobs at OSB. I have worked at a greenhouse, a recycling center, and an auto shop.
What are your plans after you complete high school?
I want to go to school to be a mechanic after high school.
What is your dream career?
My dream career is to work at an auto body shop.
What would you like the world to know about you?
I would like the world to know that I am funny and enjoy having many friends. I have also been told I give good advice.
What advice would you give to other young individuals who are exploring potential career paths?
My advice to young adults is to find out what you enjoy doing and make that your career.
Is there anyone specific you’d like to give a shoutout to?
Yes, I would like to give a shoutout to my friend Tessa, my uncle, and my grandma.
Nominate a Student
How to nominate a Student:
If you know a current or former student who has participated in Transition events or who has found success through Transition services, please let us know by submitting this nomination form.
Click here to nominate a student
Resources, blending services for all
Transition Resources
OK ABLE Tech logo.
OK ABLE Tech
ABLE Tech is Oklahoma’s Assistive Technology (AT) Act program. ABLE Tech’s mission is to improve access to, and acquisition of, assistive technology to individuals with disabilities of all ages.
They support high school youth with disabilities in their journey through high school and as they transition to post-secondary lives.
ABLE Tech provides demonstrations, presentations, and short-term loans of AT devices (a try before you buy program). ABLE Tech has formed partnerships with DRS’s BEST STEP Summer Camps and A New Leaf Transition Academy. ABLE Tech staff also provides training to high school educators and Pre-ETS staff regarding how AT can support students with disabilities in high school and as they transition to post-secondary life.
If you would like more information about ABLE Tech, please contact Dr. Joshua Hawkins at ABLE Tech -
1-800-257-1705 or by email at joshua.hawkins@okstate.edu.
Hidden Workforce logo.
The Hidden Workforce
The Hidden Workforce is a podcast and radio show that serves as a resource for students and transition-age adults who live with different abilities. This insightful and entertaining program helps people get connected with nonprofits, programs and services that assist with a variety of needs. Hosts and guests on the Hidden Workforce will provide support, bring awareness to opportunities, answer questions- or they may find a story from a self-advocate that inspires and uplifts them.
It doesn’t stop there. They're here for parents, guardians, caregivers and families. On this show, they will share valuable information on organizations and opportunities that can assist your loved ones and offer respite opportunities for self-care and much more.
They highlight resources from state agencies like DRS and DDS to break down the opportunities and programs they provide for individuals with different abilities and their families.
Their goal is to provide resources, spread hope and empower people with disabilities to chase their dreams. We can’t wait for you to hear these helpful and inspiring stories.
You can tune in every Saturday at 9:00 a.m. and Sunday at 3:00 p.m. live on Groovy 105.7, or on all major podcast streams including:
Spotify
Select this link to open The Hidden Workforce on Spotify
Apple
Select this link to open The Hidden Workforce on Apple
iHeart Radio Podcasts
Select this link to open The Hidden Workforce on iHeart Radio Podcasts
If you would like a story, nonprofit, program, or resource to be featured, please reach out to Maggie Bond at maggie@risestaffing.net
Plan Your Way OK logo.
Plan Your Way OK is a Transition-centered website that has a wealth of information for students, families, professionals and businesses.
Select this link to visit the Plan Your Way OK website
Folders
Transition Folders
Transition Folders include recommended resources, services, and activities for students with disabilities as they prepare for life after high school. Grade levels include high school, middle school and elementary school. It's never too early to plan a child's future.
Due to inventory challenges, the best way to get the folders' information to give to others is to download the following pdf files and print from a color printer.
Select this link for High School Folders pdf file
Select this link for Middle School Folders pdf file
Select this link for Elementary School Folders pdf file
Opportunities
Helpful Opportunities
Here are some exciting opportunities to be aware of:
Do you want to write an Innovative Grant for your school?
Join Oklahoma Career Tech in one of their upcoming professional development sessions.
Sessions include information on the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA), local application, and new innovative grant opportunities for rural schools! Training sessions, whether in person or virtual will include the same information.
Grants are available for Career Development/Exploration, Special Populations, High Growth Technologies, New Programs, Improving Academics, and Recruiting and Retaining CTE Instructors.
Please register for in-person events by using the links below:
January 27 from 9-12 - Kiamichi Technology Center - McAlester
February 3 from 9-12 - Tulsa Technology Center - Lemley
February 10 from 9-12 - Moore Norman Technology Center - South Penn
February 18 from 9-10:30 - Teams (registration not required for virtual session)
Eligibility Requirements
● *Secondary schools and technology centers applying for a grant serving secondary students must meet the $15,000 allocation requirement. If allocation does not meet the minimum, see special guidelines below.
● Technology centers and colleges applying for a grant serving post-secondary students must meet the $50,000 allocation requirement.
● All applicants must have a completed Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment (CLNA) with priorities that align to innovative grant requests.
● Form 2 must be submitted and approved when applicable.
● Grant cycle is two years (except CTE new program grant).
● Schools may apply for more than one innovative grant.
● Projects must be new and innovative for your site.
*Additional Guidelines for secondary applicants that do not meet the $15,000 minimum requirement
● School must be a member of a consortium.
● Districts must provide a complete CLNA and have at least two CTE programs (two PIDs). A consortium fiscal agents’ CLNA is acceptable.
Introducing…
Meet Eddie
Eddie Flores is a native Texan who now calls Oklahoma home. He has been with DRS since 2021 and earned a spot on the prestigious Hispanic unit. He has a master’s degree in mental health and substance abuse counseling, and his bachelor’s degree is in criminal justice. Before finding his passion in his current field of work, Eddie even earned an associate’s degree from Oklahoma City Community College in auto tech. If that’s not amazing enough, Eddie is also currently pursuing his PhD.
He has served as an Oklahoma County Reserve Deputy for 20 years and still does that on the weekends when needed. Eddie has always been a person who felt the need to stand up for others when their voice was not heard, or they were not being respected in a social setting. He especially enjoys working with people that have disabilities and seeing them grow. DRS has allowed Eddie to use his bilingual skills, and Native American roots to help the Hispanic race by giving him a chance to translate and explain the role of DRS in students’ school setting which helps improve their opportunity to find work or go to school beyond high school.
Eddie is a smart, compassionate and dedicated team member. We are lucky to have him on the team.
Image of Eddie
Eddie Flores
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor
Vocational Rehabilitation
ph. 405-635-2777
What is Transition?
The Transition program provides services to prepare students with disabilities for employment and life after high school. Services may include career counseling, vocational evaluation, work adjustment training, on-the-job training, work-study, and job development and placement. The Vocational Rehabilitation and Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired divisions jointly run the Transition program so the youth can easily move into adult services when it is time.
Contact Us:
Renee Sansom Briscoe
rsansom@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-951-3488
Chris Compton
ccompton@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-605-9651
Tracy Keeley
Tracy.Keeley@okdrs.gov
Phone: 918-581-2322
Kevin Randall II
krandall@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-255-9663
Jessie Renteria
jrenteria@okdrs.gov
Phone: 405-951-3463
Porsheana Brown
pbrown2@okdrs.gov Phone: 405-334-7199
Jeff Newton
jeffrey.newton@okdrs.go v
Phone: 405-881-9314
Image of Logo, Oklahoma Rehabilitation Services
Image of Logo, Oklahoma Works - a proud partner of the American Job Center network
Image of Empowering Oklahomans with Disabilities, with a paint brush.
We can help create the blueprint for your youth’s success
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