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New Policy Curriculum to Expand Disability-Inclusive Internships

“Young people with disabilities who participate in apprenticeships and other work-based learning opportunities experience stronger career outcomes,“ according to research. To increase such opportunities, a new online policy curriculum outlines strategies for states to use to expand inclusive apprenticeships. The curriculum, published by The Council on State Governments (CSG) and the State Exchange on Employment and Disability (SEED), explains that participants in apprenticeships can gain “hands-on training” and practical experience that “can catapult them in the world of work.” The new resource details strategies for states to strengthen opportunities for skill development and job exploration “for individuals with disabilities through work-based learning programs such as apprenticeships.” Examples of state policies and resources are provided to help in making programs more inclusive of those with disabilities. State agencies, legislatures, and governors have used a range of strategies to achieve this goal, including such initiatives as showing state government as a model employer, establishing diversity and inclusion requirements, fostering agency collaboration, increasing digital platform accessibility for remote work, and more. For a brief summary, read the News Brief  from the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) of the U.S. Department of Labor.. For details about the policy curriculum, visit the CSG website page on Disability Employment Policy Curriculum on Apprenticeships.