The guide describes the STEPS program: Successful Transition to Employment for People with Special needs. Step I begins as a prevocational curriculum in the ninth grade, with students doing hands-on tasks in the classroom and school environment, while receiving related classroom instruction. Step II provides a continuation of activities in Step I and adds optional referral to the Division of Rehabilitation Services, work evaluations, vocational assessments, and part-time community work experience. Step III introduces training for future employment and beginning work experience, such as chores at home, jobs around the school, and volunteer work. Some 11th and 12th graders may also be ready for the vocational training offered at the county career centers. Work study and summer youth programs are additional alternatives for older students. Step IV, "Maintaining Employment," is typically reached in the twelfth grade. This final step provides job training and work evaluation through incorporating all previous steps: preparing for employment, vocational skills assessment, training, and beginning work experience. The guide also includes suggestions for parents in assisting their child's transition from school to work, jobs typically available for disabled students, common mistakes made by young people in beginning their job search, and parent, student, and teacher checklists. (JW)