Transition Services and Preparation for Life After High School

For students with Individual Education Programs (IEPs), transition planning means preparing for adulthood (life after high school).  Transition planning should begin when a student turns 12 and continue each school year until the child graduates with a diploma, exits with a credential, or turns 21 years old.

Transition planning is a results-oriented process that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement of students with disabilities in order to facilitate the student’s movement from school to post-school activities with the goal of continued education, employment, and/or independent living.

Transition planning responsibilities are shared by many people, including the student’s family, school staff, and community partners. Representatives of community agencies, particularly those that have traditionally provided post-high-school services, should be active participants in transition activities for students when appropriate. Transition activities can go beyond what is discussed at the IEP meeting and may include members of the outside community.

NYSED's A Parent Guide to Special Education
NYSED's A Parent's Guide to Special Education-Spanish
NYSED Family Guide to Transition