I’m really hopeful that this conversation will bring hope and direction to parents who may be feeling confused, scared or concerned about their teen’s future. Transitioning to life after high school, whether you are headed to college or someplace else, is difficult for most, and for some, it’s just plain overwhelming. Even for those students who seem to have what it takes to succeed academically, they may still need improvement in social skills and executive functioning skills like time management, organization and follow-through. Today’s guest, Lauren Merritt, is an expert in this field and has excellent advice and insight for parents of teens. Lauren is the Chief Operating Officer of College Steps, a non-profit organization that was founded by a clinical psychologist and a special educator with a simple mission: To empower students living with learning and social challenges through structured post-secondary support. Working closely with high schools, colleges and families, they emphasize peer-to-peer services that build confidence and success.
About Lauren Merritt
Lauren Merritt, is the Chief Operating Officer at College Steps. As a founding member of College Steps, she has overseen the growth of College Steps partnerships from a single college program in Vermont to a comprehensive model featuring partnership sites throughout the northeast and Mid-Atlantic States. Lauren is identified as a national leader in post-secondary education for individuals living with disabilities. Lauren’s professional memberships include the Post-Secondary Education Consortium, Autism Advisory Council for Connecticut, New York, Vermont and Massachusetts (Chairperson), Ability Now (Chairperson), Waitsfield Children’s Center (Board of Directors), Green Mountain United Way (Board of Directors), Autism Speaks, and Connecticut Association on Higher Education and Disability.
Episode Highlights
- The origin of College Steps
- The lack of funding for “Gap Kids”
- What are authentic transitioning services?
- What can parents do to ensure their kids’ needs are met?
- High schools should not be a holding tank
- Seek out community offerings
- Make sure your child’s IEP is being addressed
- Families should think critically about how their kids have been affected by COVID-19
- College readiness is so much more than academics
- Teens need to develop self-advocacy skills
- How to improve executive functioning skills at home
- The value of concurrent or dual enrollment
- Look for summer boot camps at your local college
- College Steps peer mentoring group
- Advice for parents of teens who need help transitioning
Resources
College Steps on Instagram
College Steps on Facebook