L&I Secretary Visits High School Students Learning Independent-Living Skills at Penn State

Are you a high school student in Pennsylvania looking to gain valuable independent-living skills to prepare for employment after graduation? Look no further than the Department of Labor & Industry’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) Summer Academy for Students who are Blind or Visually Impaired.

Secretary Nancy A. Walker recently visited with 20 high school students from across Pennsylvania who are participating in the academy at Penn State. Since 2009, OVR has been offering this 10-day immersive experience to help students build the skills they need to succeed in post-secondary education and competitive integrated employment.

The academy, hosted at Penn State’s University Park campus, provides students with the opportunity to live in a college dorm, eat meals at a dining hall, and participate in team-building activities. They also take classes on mobility skills, requesting accommodations, study skills, assistive technology, career planning, and more. Each student and their family receive a report outlining strengths and areas for improvement to ensure a successful transition to college.

Not only does the academy benefit students, but it also provides valuable experience for young professionals in human services-related majors who serve as Resident Assistants (RAs). These RAs help guide and support participants, creating a positive and enriching experience for all involved.

Governor Josh Shapiro’s proposed 2024-25 budget prioritizes services for Pennsylvanians with disabilities, including an additional investment in vocational rehabilitation. With over 50,000 individuals with disabilities receiving services through the vocational rehabilitation program annually, the state is committed to supporting independence without barriers.

If you are a Pennsylvania high school student enrolled in vocational rehabilitation services through the Bureau of Blindness and Visual Services, consider applying for OVR’s Summer Academy. Partnering with families and the Pennsylvania Training and Technical Assistance Network (PaTTAN), OVR ensures that information about the academy reaches all vision departments within Pennsylvania’s Intermediate Units.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to gain valuable skills and prepare for a successful transition to college and employment. Apply for OVR’s Summer Academy and take the first step towards a bright future!