By the time a student with a disability reaches high school, the focus of their specialized instruction should shift to include an emphasis on post-secondary life.  

 

For students on IEPs, this instruction usually begins between age 14-16 and should incorporate individualized & measurable goals that address further education, employment, community engagement and independent living skills. These goals and objectives are located in the Transition section of the IEP.  

 

Transition goals are guided by the student's interests, preferences and strengths and are a wonderful opportunity to address practical and vitally important skills for post-high school life.  For students who are seeking further educational opportunity, understanding how a 504 Plan or IEP transfers to a new school environment is imperative—as is developing the self-advocacy skills needed to access these rights under the ADA.  

 

Ohio Student Advocacy helps families access the oftentimes hidden resources available for students of all abilities and works collaboratively with educational teams to develop individualized Transition plans.

 

Resources

 

United States Department of Education: A Transition Guide to Postsecondary Education and Employment for Students and Youth with Disabilities

PACER's National Parent Center on Transition and Employment: Middle & High School Transition Planning