What is Transition Planning?
Transition Planning is the creation of a detailed “Transition Plan” to help special education students move from school to post-school activities.
School districts are responsible for starting the transition process to ensure advanced planning for adult programs and services. Transition Planning Services begin at age 14 and should be reviewed annually. The Transition Plan should be included in the student’s IEP (Individualized Education Plan).
Creating the Transition Plan
The Transition Plan should be formed with help from the following:
The Student
Their parents
The school
The Board of Education
The Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS)
The Transition Plan should be based on the student’s:
Needs
Preferences
Potential
Abilities
Interests
The Contents of the Transition Plan
The Transition Plan, at a minimum, should offer the following specific services:
Instruction
Community experiences
A functional vocation evaluation
Social work services
Developing employment and other post-school adult living objectives
When appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills
Related services- including School rehabilitation counseling
Other necessary services
The Transition Plan should consider and prepare for the following areas of adult living:
Independent living
Vocational training
Continuing and adult education
Adult services
Integrated employment (including supported employment)
Community participation and integrated community living
Developing skills necessary for post-secondary education
A specific job or career
Remember:
Beginning Transition Planning at age 14 prevents an interruption in services and facilitates a smooth transition to adulthood.
Services may be provided by the Illinois Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) but it is ultimately the school’s responsibility to provide the services.
The law envisions cooperative transition planning by the student, their family, DRS, and the school.