Upper Grand District School Board families of students in grades K-12+ with intellectual and developmental disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorder are invited to access valuable resources and guidance through the upcoming virtual series, Creating Connection and Supporting Transitions.
This informative series is designed to equip caregivers with the tools and knowledge needed to support their youth as they transition through and beyond the school years.
The series, which runs from September to May 2026, will provide information on critical topics such as service coordination, transition planning, employment readiness, independent living, and building lifelong community networks.
We know that transitions can be complex — but you’re not alone. Together, we’ll learn how to create strong plans, strengthen student voice, and make sure no opportunity is missed.
INFO:
Dates and Times: Please see the chart below
Where:
MONTH | TITLE OF SESSION | GUEST SPEAKERS |
SEPTEMBER 25 @ 6:30pm | Raising Strong Self Advocates and Pathway Planning Sept 25 @6:30pm virtual We’ll explore how to support student voice, identity, and self-determination from an early age — and why it’s essential for future success. During this session, we’ll also collect feedback on preferred times for future sessions. | Angela Catcher |
OCTOBER 16 @ 5-7pm | Parent Resource Fair @ Westside Secondary School Oct 16 @5-7pm | Various Community Agencies |
OCTOBER 29th @ 12-1pm | CICE Oct 29 @ 12:00-1:00pm What is CICE, how do I apply and why should I consider it | Sarah Wardell- Conestoga College CICE |
NOVEMBER 26 @ 12-1pm | Passport Services Nov 26 @ 12:00-1:00pm Key areas to consider: education, employment, independent living, and social integration plus an introduction to available community supports and services. | Ashlyn Northfield |
DECEMBER | Enjoy the holidays | |
JANUARY 28 @ 6:30-7:30pm | Compass/Access Information and Referral Services and DCAFs Jan 28 @ 6:30-7:30pm Overview of service coordination, programs, supports, and who to contact for assistance and the importance of early transition planning for youth in grades 7-12+. Common barriers and how to overcome them. | Will Wycherley/Paula Bromby/Andrea Wyshniosky |
FEBRUARY 25@ 12-1pm | ODEN Meaningful Employment Feb 25 @ 12-1pm | Angela Catcher |
MARCH 25@ 12-1pm | DSO March 25 @ 12-1pm Eligibility criteria and application process and tips for navigating the system and maximizing funding use. | Sarah, Paeton, and Christine |
APRIL | TBD April 29 @ Connecting with community support and peer networks and building social and life skills necessary for adulthood | TBD |
MAY | Guelph Parent Resource Fair @ Our Lady of Lourdes (date tbd) | Various community agencies |