The Muscogee County School District, in partnership with Columbus State University, will host its 8th annual Transition Fair on Tuesday, March 20, 5:00-7:30 p.m., at CSU’s Student Recreation Center. The event is free and for students in grades 6-12 with disabilities or on a 504 plan. Students and their families will have the opportunity to hear from a best-selling author and educator, enjoy a light meal, and interact with hosting agencies.

Dawnell Jacobs, an MCSD Early College English teacher and published author, will be the featured speaker. Jacobs will share her story of survival and success. At 17 years old, Jacobs was homeless. Her mother, due to mental illness, abandoned her and her three younger siblings (ages 3, 5, and 7), in the care of social services. Jacobs promised her siblings that she would get them out of the foster care. It was this promise that motivated her to finish her high school diploma, pursue a college education, and become an educator. “By becoming a teacher, I was able to fulfill my promise to my brothers and get them from foster care as well as help countless of other children just like me. Teaching gave me the income I needed to accomplish my goal, but it also gave me the avenue to help other children accomplish theirs,” said Jacobs. She is now a published author and the parent of a MCSD student with a disability; who is participating in the Ready4Life Transition Program.

Hosting agencies include Access 2 Independence, Autism HOPE Center and High School/High Tec Program, Easter SEALS, Exceptional Family Member Program, Goodwill Industries of the Southern Rivers, and Vocational Rehabilitation. These agencies provide a variety of services and opportunities for students with disabilities or 504 plans. In addition, on-site vendors will cover topics such as person centered planning, inclusive college programs, social security, healthcare, Medicaid waivers, and support groups covering all disabilities.

The mission of the Program for Exceptional Students and Psychological Services is to provide a quality educational program that prepares all students for success. We believe that through meaningful access to a quality education, all children can be challenged to achieve their best in school, and all children can be lifelong learners.

Event Schedule

5:00-6:00 p.m.
Food and vendors
 
6:00-6:40 p.m.
Keynote Speaker                                                                                                                   
 
6:40-7:25 p.m.
Vendors
High School High Tech pull-out session
 
7:25 p.m.
Door Prizes