In what staff plan to grow into one of the school’s larger events, the inaugural Transition and Resource Fair at Academic and Behavior School (ABS) East was a rousing success.

ABS East parents and families attended the midday event on Nov. 13, networking with community partners who offer specific and tailored services for HCDE’s unique student populations. Representatives from Houston Community College and the Tulsa Welding School were on hand, offering insight into higher education and post-graduation opportunities. Personnel from organizations including Autism Moms of Houston, the East Harris County Empowerment Council and Noah’s House also connected with families, showcasing their services and initiatives to help support youth and those trending toward or showing potential to independent living.

Other attending vendors included Team Wilmore, which offers dentistry to those with special needs, and Bloom Fitness, which leads people living with intellectual and development diagnosis to choose a lifetime of fitness.

Harris County Department of Education’s two Academic and Behavior Schools (East and West) provide supportive learning environments for students aged 5-22 with intellectual, developmental and behavioral disorders, autism spectrum disorder and other health impairments. The fair empowered families with resources they may not have known existed and showed students a future filled with support.