Description and Evaluation of the ARIES Project. Achieving Rehabilitation, Individualized Education, and Employment Success for Adolescents with Emotional Disturbance

Abstract

The ARIES ( Achieving Rehabilitation, Individualized Education, and Employment Success) Project for adolescents with emotional disturbance (ED) was operated jointly by staff from the University of Oregon and the Springfield, Oregon School District. Participants were referred to ARIES through the schools, vocational rehabilitation, and other community agencies (e.g., corrections, mental health). Each participant had a transition specialist who worked in conjunction with that individual to develop a service delivery plan and to then access necessary services. Self-determination, competitive vocational placements, and educational support were emphasized. The impact of ARIES and its services was positive on the participants, especially in regard to educational achievements. Qualitative evaluation of the project indicated that participants, educators, and social service staff viewed the ARIES model as effective in meeting the needs of the adolescents with ED.