Audience
Teens & Young Adults
About this Workshop
This session will focus on navigating post-secondary decisions, including traditional college pathways, trade schools, certification programs, and alternative educational options. Participants will hear practical insights about choosing environments that fit a student’s strengths, interests, support needs, and long-term goals while learning how to approach applications, accommodations, and self-advocacy during the transition process.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to identify programs that align with personal strengths and goals and understand practical considerations during applications and admissions.
- Compare trade school, college, and alternative education pathways.
- Hear real-world perspectives on navigating educational and career decisions.
- Explore ways to advocate for accommodations and support after high school.
About the Education & Mental Health in Focus Series
Education & Mental Health in Focus is a multi-part learning showcase designed to support families, caregivers, students, and community members navigating the educational and emotional experiences connected to Tourette Syndrome and other Tic Disorders. This series brings together clinicians, advocates, educators, college students, and professionals to explore topics related to school accommodations, mental health support, transition planning, postsecondary education, and family wellbeing.
Through practical discussions and lived experiences, participants will gain tools, resources, and strategies to better support children, teens, and young adults across different stages of their educational journey. Sessions will focus on advocacy, emotional wellbeing, navigating systems of support, and building confidence for both caregivers and students.
Jennifer Stenger, Ph.D.
Dr. Jennifer Stenger has been in public education for 20 years, first as a high school English teacher and currently as a school counselor. She has also taught adjunct classes ta two universities in Southern Illinois. In 2011, she received a PhD in Educational Leadership & Policy Studies from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. Her dissertation research was based on other public K-12 educators who, like herself, have Tourette Syndrome. After completing her doctorate, she self-published The Life that Chose Us: Educators with Tourette Syndrome, based on this work. Since publishing in 2013, she has presented at multiple conferences and speaking engagements; she also meets with younger children with disabilities to promote positive self-image and self-confidence. She is energized when working with and serving the TS community, as she is driven to help school-aged children succeed both academically and socially. She has been a member of the Education Advisory Board since 2016.
