Looking for More for Your Transition-Aged Students? Discover STEP 2026

Join the American Council of the Blind (ACB) for an introduction to STEP 2026 (Strengthen Teens, Elevate Potential), a new national program designed for blind and low vision high school students and their families. Do you wish you could offer more meaningful, real-world learning opportunities for your transition-aged students? Are you looking for ways to better prepare them for life beyond high school? STEP was created to help bridge that gap. Taking place during the 2026 ACB Conference and Convention in St. Louis, STEP is an immersive program focused on building confidence, independence, and future readiness. Aligned with Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), it emphasizes self-advocacy, career exploration, workplace readiness, and independent living skills. Students engage in interactive sessions, mentorship, and real-world experiences, while parents participate in a parallel track focused on fostering independence and supporting long-term success.

This session will highlight the program structure, intended outcomes, and opportunities for collaboration with state agencies, educators, and service providers—demonstrating how STEP can strengthen transition services and expand opportunities for students and families.

Presenters:

Cindy Hollis, Manager of Membership Engagement, American Council of the Blind RaLynn McGuire, Teen Program Lead, Texas

Carrie Muth, Parent Program Lead, Oregon