Hillary Wright-Kaufman
Jan 14 2026 4:45 PM

(SPRINGFIELD, Ky.) – Washington County Schools has been selected to receive the Kentucky Transition 360 Supporting Postsecondary Achievement and Resources for Kentucky Students with Disabilities (SPARK) Grant from the Kentucky Department of Education, in the amount of $75,000. According to KDE’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning, the grant is designed to strengthen postsecondary transition services for students with disabilities through improved collaboration, family engagement and data-driven planning. The initiative focuses on building stronger partnerships between school districts, families and community agencies, such as the Kentucky Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, to better prepare students for life after high school, including postsecondary education, competitive employment and independent living opportunities.

Through the KY SPARK Grant, participating districts pilot a comprehensive framework to enhance transition programming for students with disabilities. Districts complete a self-assessment to evaluate current practices related to family partnerships, transition assessments and interagency collaboration, then develop and implement a targeted action plan aligned with research-based predictors of postschool success. This process supports sustainable improvements by strengthening internal systems, forming a dedicated transition team and expanding collaboration with community partners to improve long-term outcomes for students. Washington County Schools was one of only 20 school districts selected to receive the grant from across the Commonwealth.

“I am so excited for our district to receive the 360 SPARK: Supporting Postsecondary Achievement and Resources for Kentucky Students with Disabilities,” says Amanda Mattingly, who serves as director of special education and director of student and staff supports for the district. “This initiative will deepen our collaboration with community partners and agencies, such as the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, as well as guide us in building stronger family partnerships while planning for students’ future path beyond their high school graduation. The collective strengthening of our engagement and commitment will be a meaningful benefit for not only our students and families, but also our community.  We are excited to embrace this work!”

“This grant reflects Washington County Schools’ ongoing commitment to ensuring every student is prepared for success beyond graduation,” said WCS Superintendent Dr. Robin Cochran. “Being selected for the Kentucky Transition 360 SPARK Grant allows us to take a thoughtful, systems-based approach to strengthening transition services across our district. Through this work, we can better align instruction, support services and partnerships to create clearer pathways for students with disabilities as they move into postsecondary education, the workforce and independent living. We are proud to be among the districts selected for this opportunity and look forward to the lasting impact it will have on our students, families and community.”