First Employment – Disability Second
In April of 2012, Governor Chris Christie declared New Jersey an Employment First state. With this simple declaration, New Jersey became a part of a national movement that is “centered on the premise that all citizens, including individuals with significant disabilities, are capable of full participation in integrated employment and community life.” (Via Departement of Labor) This urges local publicly-financed systems to adjust their programs and policies to promote integrated, competitive employment opportunities for people with disabilities and special needs.
Phew. That was a lot of three-syllable-words.
In plain-speak though, what does it all mean? It means
From North to South, most New Jerseyans agree that the place to be this summer is the Jersey shore. For some, it can even be a second home. There isn’t a weekend that you won’t see them enjoying the Atlantic or strolling the boardwalk with family and friends. The question we ask ourselves here at Easterseals New Jersey, however, is how accessible is the beach? 
In New Jersey, as well as other states across the country, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a written document that outlines a child’s (with a special need or disability) education, ages 3-21. The plan is tailored specifically to the individual student, so they receive maximum educational benefit. The key word is individual. A program that is appropriate for one student, may not be right for another.
ut there to get information from, you never know which one is the best. Within this post we will discuss the three most useful resources that you can access at any time, as well as an important tool that can be used by all.