Transition 101
Do you have questions about the Transition program for Special Education students? If so, we are providing some information about Transition on this page
What is Transition?
Transition is defined as a coordinated set of activities for a student with a disability that:
- Is designed to help a student improve academic and functional achievement to facilitate the student’s movement from school to post-secondary activities. This can include education, vocational education, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation
- Is based on the individual student’s needs, and considers the student’s strengths, preferences, and interests
- Includes instruction, related services, community experiences, the development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives, and, if appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation.
What is a Transition Plan (ITP)?
The Individual Transition Plan (ITP) is a document developed by school teams to assist students to reasonably enable them to meet their post-secondary goals in the areas of education, employment, and independent living.
Who Needs a Transition Plan (ITP) on the IEP?
The student’s IEP must be updated, prior to their 16th birthday (or younger if deemed appropriate by the IEP Team), to include the following transition components:
How Are Transition Plans Developed?
ITPs are developed based on assessment and student-centered planning. The IEP team will discuss and document the results of the transition assessment, the student’s postsecondary plans and course of study credits completed, and whether the student is working toward a diploma or certificate of completion.
What Is Included in the Transition Plan?
- Postsecondary goals based upon age-appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment, and, where appropriate, independent living skills
- The transition services (including courses of study) needed to assist the student in reaching those goals
- Beginning not later than one year before the student reaches the age of majority under state law (18 in California), a statement that the student has been informed of the student’s rights that will transfer to the student on reaching the age of majority, must be included in the IEP.
If you have additional questions about a student’s transition plan, please contact the student’s Case Manager.
