The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act 2004 (IDEA) requires that transition goals are integrated into the Individualized Education Program (IEP) beginning not later than the first IEP to be in effect when the child is 16 or younger if determined appropriate. However on August 6, 2008, with the passage of Chapter 285, Massachusetts now requires that beginning when the eligible student is 14, the school district must plan for the student's need for transition services. The school district must document this discussion annually using the MADESE Transition Planning Form.

The transition plan is meant to guide and prepare young adults with disabilities as they move from school to post school activities. Driven by a student’s own vision and appropriate transition assessments, IEP goals are developed to support student preferences and interests. In high school transition planning for each student includes exploring post-secondary educational opportunities, vocational and employment options as well as community participation. For some students transition planning may include connecting with adult service agencies that can provide eligible young adults with services when they graduate from high school or turn 22 years of age.

Planning A Life is a great two day conference that will help you understand more about all of the complex issues that make up the Transition planning process. Through our partnership with the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission, and the Transition Works! grant, we are able to offer this event FREE to families residing in Boston, Worcester and Springfield. Space is limited and registration is required for participation.

Find out more about Transition and network with other families of transition age students. The 2009-2010 schedule is online. Register today! Planning a Life: Making the Most out of High School A Transition Conference

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