Last week, Manistee ISD proudly hosted its 1st Annual PATH-way to Adulthood resource night, bringing together students, families, educators, and community partners for an engaging and informative evening. Designed to support students with disabilities as they prepare for life beyond high school, the event focused on transition planning and the wide range of adult services available within the community. Attendees had the opportunity to connect, learn, and explore resources that help build a strong foundation for the future.
The event was created and hosted by Denver Leigh Phillips, Manistee County ISD Post-secondary Transition Coordinator, with a clear purpose: to increase awareness, facilitate meaningful local connections, and encourage forward-thinking efforts to strengthen transition services for students with disabilities throughout Manistee County.
Designed for students ages 16–26 who receive special education services, the event focused on helping families better understand the transition process outlined in the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Attendees learned how transition planning—guided by federal law through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and supported by the Michigan Department of Education—helps prepare young adults for success in employment, education and training, independent living, and community participation.
Throughout the evening, participants had the opportunity to gain valuable insights into:
What transition planning means for Michigan students with an IEP
How to understand and navigate the transition section of the IEP
Ways to connect with local agencies that support young adults with disabilities
Information about services, eligibility requirements, and application steps for community-based supports
One of the highlights of the night was the opportunity to meet and interact directly with local community partners. Representatives from a variety of organizations were on hand to share resources, answer questions, and help families begin building connections that extend beyond the school system. Community partners in attendance included:
Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS)
Northwest Michigan Works!
Disability Network Northwest Michigan
Staircase Youth Services
Community Mental Health / Centra Wellness
West Shore Community College – Student Success Services
The event created a welcoming space where families could ask questions, explore options, and begin to envision the future with greater confidence and clarity. Light refreshments and a relaxed atmosphere encouraged meaningful conversations and connection-building among attendees.
Most importantly, PATH-way to Adulthood Night emphasized a powerful message: transition planning is not just a requirement—it is an opportunity to build hope, independence, and a strong foundation for adulthood.
On behalf of the Manistee ISD, Denver Phillips extends her sincere appreciation to all of the community partners who generously shared their time and expertise, as well as to the students, families, staff, and community members who attended and made this first annual event a success.
As a whole, we look forward to continuing this important work and growing the PATH-way to Adulthood event in the years to come—because every student deserves a supported and successful transition into adult life.
For more information about future events, please follow us on Facebook and/or visit our website: manistee.org