Transition services come into play when special education service providers collaborate with students and their families in planning and preparing for post-school environments. It is used for students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in grade 9 or higher or ages 15 - 21. The services come into play in school and/or community settings when appropriate.

Key components of transition planning and services include:

• Assessment
• Post-School Goals
• Planned Course of Study
• Transition Services and Activities
• Annual Goals

Why

Transition services are in place because numerous follow-up and follow-along studies of youth with disabilities have shown that, when compared with youth in the general population, individuals with disabilities do not succeed as well in post-school environments. 

How

The services work by identifying desired outcomes and then designing school and community experiences to ensure that the student gains the skills and connections necessary to achieve those outcomes. Transition planning and services required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) are based on individual student preferences, interests, abilities, and needs and promote successful movement to the following post-school settings:

• Education and/or Training
• Employment
• Independent Living
• Community Participation