Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
DIS representative outlines expansion of pre‑ETS and day programs in Greene County
Loading...
Summary
A DIS representative told Greene County commissioners the organization served 20 students in a school‑based pre‑employment transition services (pre‑ETS) program this year and is seeking to expand staffing and a summer program; commissioners heard program, day‑service and housing updates during the meeting.
Cherry, a representative of DIS for Rivers, told the Greene County Commissioners on the morning agenda that the agency is expanding its pre‑employment transition services and supported employment offerings for students with individualized education programs.
Cherry said the current school‑based pre‑ETS program works with senior students who have IEPs to help them plan for jobs or postsecondary education. “Right now, we’re in Eastern Greene Middle and High School. We’re in Shacamak Junior High School. We’re in White River Valley School. We’re in Bloomfield High School and then in Stockton School,” Cherry said. She added that this year two staff logged about 1,655 hours working with 20 students in those placements.
The program representative said DIS hopes to add staff and trial summer programming to prevent students from losing skills gained during the school year. “We also are going to attempt to start trying to run a small program through the summer for kids that are interested in that,” Cherry said.
Cherry described the agency’s other services in Greene County: a day program serving about 21 individuals who take part in facility and community activities; a “reach” program for about 21 people who live with family or guardians and receive part‑time support; and 11 people who receive day services while also getting 24/7 supportive living services. She told commissioners the organization employs 23 staff in the county, including two teachers who work with the pre‑ETS program.
Cherry listed recent activities and community partnerships: a butterfly‑hatching and release project, hummingbird feeders and bird watching, visits to Linton Beauty College, a tour of a John Deere implement business in Newberry, Easter craft projects and a visit from Rainy Day Ranchers Mobile Petting Zoo. She also said local firefighter Monty Emmons gave a tornado‑safety presentation.
On housing, Cherry reported repair work after a past fire at Independence Place and said the displaced residents were able to return once repairs were completed. She also said the agency is planning a Jeep‑themed fundraising event to support local services.
Commissioners thanked DIS staff for their work and expressed support for the programs.
