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.