Transition Services

What is the purpose of transition services?

Transition services are implemented into the IEP by at least the age of 16, sometimes they are started earlier if deemed necessary by the IEP team. Transition generally has three major goals:

To help provide students, as well as their families, develop a long-range plan for achieving his or her desired post-high school goals.
Plan the students high school experience to ensure that the student gains the essential skills needed to achieve his or her goals.
Link students and families to any needed post-school services, supports, or programs before the student graduates from high school.

For all students, starting at age 16 (or younger, if appropriate) the IEP team must:

Involve the student in his or her IEP development, if the student is unable to attend the meeting steps should be taken to ensure that the student’s preferences and interests are considered.
The IEP must be based on the student’s needs, preferences, and interests.
Determine the student’s future goals. These goals could include college, technical college, vocational training, integrated employment, adult services, independent living, as well as community living.
Annually review the student’s transition service needs adjusting them as needed to achieve these goals.
Develop a statement of needed transition services.
In a state that transfers rights at the age of majority, beginning at least one year before the student reaches this age under State Law, the student’s IEP must include a statement that the student has been informed of his or her rights that will transfer to the student.