Does Transition Planning apply to students going on to higher education or training after High School?

Yes. A Transition plan for a student going on to further education will look different than a plan for a student who is going directly into employment. Many transition activities should be planned to help this student reach his or her postsecondary goals.

A Transition plan for this student could include such activities as career exploration through job site visitations, identifying a post- secondary placement with support services, an updated psychological evaluation, academic support, learning strategy instruction, time management training, applying for non-timed SAT'S, obtaining a driver’s license, having a summer job, understanding life insurance or income taxes, developing a portfolio or resume, and developing self-advocacy skills.

 What Can Parents Do To Help in Transition Planning?

What is the Role of the School in Transition Planning?

Provide Functional Instruction

What is "functional" will differ for each student based on the desired     outcomes.

Provide Vocational Evaluation           

Should include assessment of interests, preferences, strengths, weaknesses, and needs.

Provide Community-Based Experiences    

Should include general community experiences as well as work experiences (paid or unpaid), based on student's needs and desired outcomes.

Begin the Transition Process

At the age of 14, Transition planning should begin-select a “course of study". At the age of 16, Transition services should begin based on the desired post-school outcomes.

Link with Appropriate Agencies

Identify agencies which will be helpful assisting the student as he or she exits high school and work collaboratively with those agencies