Center for Literacy, Education, and Employment
Overview
The Center for Literacy, Education and Employment (CLEE) of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tennessee was founded in 1988. The Center's original charge was to link interdisciplinary efforts within the University with practitioners in the field of adult literacy. The Center has expanded through the years and today its mission is to support continuous improvement in the fields of education and workforce development through training, resources, advocacy and research.
We envision CLEE as an international leader in achieving and maintaining a future where all individuals have the knowledge, skills, and opportunities needed to flourish in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
The Center for Literacy, Education and Employment works actively with other state and national organizations including the Center for Developmental Disabilities particularly in the areas of self-determination and transition for students with disabilities as well as a support employment project, DRS Corporate Connections. CLEE also partners with federal and state agencies to improve universal access to employment for job seekers with disabilities. Innovative research, innovative professional development opportunities, use of cutting-edge technology, and the provision of thorough technical assistance have given the Center a respected position in its field.
Transition
Making a seamless transition from high school to post-secondary education, vocational training or employment can be difficult for students, especially if they are also dealing with potential barriers such as intellectual or physical disabilities. Our schools have an obligation to assist these students in the transition from school to adult life. We can help teachers write Transition IEPs for their students based on the student’s needs, interests, and strengths that will better prepare them for their future.
Getting into college, beginning career training, or starting a new job can be challenging. But even the most difficult barriers can be overcome with the right information. The University of Tennessee Center for Literacy, Education and Employment can assist students, teachers and school systems with these challenges by providing:
- Training on writing Transition IEPs
- Technical assistance onsite with review and recommendations regarding IEPs
- Other Transition assistance targeted to the needs of individual schools
Learn more about resources and services.
Contact
For more information on Center for Literacy, Education and Employment, please contact:
- Aaron Kohring, Director, 865.974.9400 akohring@utk.edu.
- East/Middle Tennessee: Crystal Godwin, cgodwin1@utk.edu
- West Tennessee: Melvin Jackson, mjacks63@utk.edu.