Snyder ISD has approved a formal partnership with the Scurry County Guardianship Program to strengthen transition planning, guardianship support, and access to resources for students with disabilities ages 13 to 21.
For many families, planning for adulthood brings new and often unfamiliar decisions, including medical, financial, and legal responsibilities once a student turns 18. In recent years, because Scurry County lacked an active local guardianship program, Snyder ISD families often had to seek services outside the county, primarily in Lubbock or Abilene. This often resulted in long wait times, sometimes lasting 14 to 18 months, along with additional challenges in navigating the process.
This partnership brings support closer to home.
Through this collaboration, families will have access to a local program that can help explain available options and guide them through the next steps. This includes support in understanding guardianship, as well as alternatives such as supported decision-making, medical power of attorney, and other legal tools.
Support can begin earlier than many families expect. Starting in junior high, the Scurry County Guardianship Program can participate in ARD meetings to help ensure required transition planning is addressed on time and in a way that is easier for families to understand. This allows families to begin asking questions, exploring options, and preparing well before a student turns 18.
As students approach adulthood, families will have a local point of contact to help guide decisions and connect them to services. The program also helps families access resources such as mental health support, food programs, adult service referrals, placement assistance, and medical coordination. These supports can help reduce gaps during a critical transition period.
For families, it is important to understand that guardianship is not the only option and may not be necessary in every situation. Some alternatives involve little to no cost and do not require court involvement. When legal support is needed, the program can assist families in understanding the process, exploring Legal Aid options, and determining what best fits their needs.
The Scurry County Guardianship Program, housed in the County Judge’s Office, provides a stable, local resource designed to serve individuals and families across the community and will continue to grow alongside local needs. There is no cost to Snyder ISD for participation in this partnership. The district’s role will focus on connecting families to the program through referrals, obtaining consent, and coordinating support within existing school processes, while Scurry County manages long-term case coordination and legal responsibilities.
We appreciate the partnership and dedication of Scurry County in helping make this possible for our students and families. Families who would like more information about transition planning or guardianship support are encouraged to contact Snyder ISD Student Services.