Planning for Life After High School
In short: Transition planning helps students get ready for adult life: work, college or training, and living as independently as possible.
2 min read · Flutterli Editorial Team
What is transition planning?
Under IDEA, the IEP must include a transition plan starting no later than the IEP in effect when the student turns 16. Many states start earlier.
The plan has goals for life after school, like education or training, work, and, when it fits, independent living. It is updated every year.
Questions to think about
- What kind of job would I like?
- Do I want to go to college or a training program?
- Where would I like to live?
- What skills do I want to practice, like cooking, money, or using the bus?
- Who can help me reach my goals?
School vs. college
| In high school | In college |
|---|---|
| The school finds students who need help | The student asks the disability services office for help |
| IEP with special education services | No IEP. Accommodations under the ADA and Section 504 |
| The school sets up support | The student shares disability information and requests accommodations |
Helpful agencies
- Your state's vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency can help with job training and finding work.
- Your state's developmental disabilities agency can help with adult services.
- Ask the IEP team to invite these agencies to transition meetings, with your permission.