KYTN Success Stories

Graphic of a stock photo of a school-aged youth and man in a school setting. White text on a blue background reads: "Real Stories. Real Impact." Icon of a person celebrating with a star, a graduation cap, and a hand with a briefcase on the right. KYTN logo.

KYTN At Work 

Across the state, Kansas Youth Transition Network (KYTN) pilot programs are showing what's possible when youth, families, schools, and community organizations come together to build strong local transition systems.

Explore what's happening in Wyandotte County—one of our KYTN pilot programs. The pilot program in Wyandotte County is called the Youth Transition Alliance of Wyandotte County (YTAWC).

Training Teachers and School Staff at Professional Development Day 

The Youth Transition Alliance of Wyandotte County (YTAWC) worked with Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (USD 500) to provide training for over 200 school staff in May 2025. Teachers and support staff learned more about how to support students with disabilities and the programs and services provided by Independence, Inc. and the YTAWC. 

Full room pictured at Professional Development Day hosted by YTAWC Families Together Inc. Program Director, Leia Holley at Professional Development Day hosted by YTAWC

Helping Students Get Ready for Life After High School

At Washington High School, the YTAWC developed a new in-class training curriculum to teach students skills they need to be transition-ready. The training was designed based on teacher feedback, student demographics, and other factors.

The training will start in classrooms this Fall (2025). The team is also working with a curriculum developer to organize the curriculum into a shareable and modifiable package.

Sign up for our email list to be notified when new trainings (like this one) and resources are added to the KYTN website

Student Podcasts for IEP Meetings 

The YTAWC is working with the CHASE Program to help students create audio recordings, or podcasts, to share at their IEP (Individualized Education Program) meetings.

In the podcast, students can talk about their ideas, interests, and concerns in a fun and person-centered way. This collaboration allows students' voices to really be heard. 

Recording a podcast: 

  • Increases self-awareness 
  • Grows confidence 
  • Teaches self-advocacy 
  • Develops communication skills 

Contact the YTAWC for more information and to sign up to make a podcast!

Helping Youth in Foster Care 

Youth with disabilities who are also in foster care often face extra challenges. The YTAWC is building meaningful collaborations within the foster care system, reaching this underserved population of students to make sure they get the transition support they need. 

Are you a foster care provider, family of a youth in foster care, or a group home that serves youth in the foster care system in Wyandotte County? Reach out to connect with the team!