About Us
Hello
Greetings! I'm Ann Dawson, and it's my pleasure to introduce you to Focus on the Future. With nearly two decades of teaching experience, including 12 years as a Special Education teacher and Transition Coordinator, I've decided to embark on a new journey. Throughout my career, my primary focus has been on imparting life and career readiness skills to high school students, aiming to better equip them for their future adult goals.
To broaden the scope of my impact, I established Focus on the Future. This venture allows me to extend similar services to adults, concentrate on enhancing employability skills for students, and offer expertise and best practices to school districts and staff. I pride myself on being a creative problem solver, an out-of-the-box thinker, and a compassionate and motivating individual.
Beyond my professional pursuits, I find joy in crafting, reading, spending time with my nieces and nephews, and traveling with my husband during my spare time. Now, let's get to work and Focus on YOUR Future!
Let's Connect!
920-358-0657
Established in 2023 by Ann Dawson, Focus on the Future is the culmination of her 15+ years of dedicated teaching experience, with a specialization of 12 years as a special education teacher. Centered on employment, personal finance, and life skill development, Ann's expertise has made a lasting and significant impact. Throughout various school districts in Northeast Wisconsin, Ann has been a catalyst for change. She successfully established, developed, and enhanced transition programs through strategic community-focused partnerships. Those programs offered a comprehensive array of services, including competitive integrated employment, thoughtfully crafted job readiness curriculum, and engaging authentic life skill activities and experiences.
Beyond her work in the classroom, Ann is a passionate advocate for individuals with disabilities. She has taken a proactive role in developing and leading workshops for school staff, parents, employers, and community members. These workshops aim to enhance their knowledge and awareness of effectively working with and supporting individuals with disabilities. Ann's commitment to education and advocacy has shaped Focus on the Future into a beacon of empowerment and inclusivity.
Dedicated to her students' success, Ann tirelessly worked to create seamless transition services. However, she observed that individuals faced challenges in maintaining employment, utilizing community resources, and pursuing their future goals after high school. Recognizing this crucial area of need and fueled by her commitment to embracing abilities, Ann established “Focus on the Future”. It is our goal to empower individuals by equipping them with the essential skills and tools needed to achieve their employment goals and realize their future aspirations to the fullest.
Focus on the Future is currently a one-person operation with exciting ideas and plans for future expansion. In addition to employment assistance, Focus on the Future provides K-12 education consulting, educational materials and resources, and advocacy services for parents and individuals. At this time, Focus on the Future is currently a one-person operation with exciting ideas and plans for future expansion. Focus on the Future can meet virtually or in-person at various locations that are convenient for you!
Together, let's build a community that connects and uplifts individuals of all abilities in their journey towards educational growth and professional success!
Our Story
Professional Affiliations
Fox Cities Chamber
National Career Development Association (NCDA)
National Employment Counseling Association (NECA)
American Rehabilitation Counseling Association (ARCA)
American Counseling Association (ACA)
National Educators Association (NEA)
Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC)