Learn more
Definition of transition from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):
Transition services means a coordinated set of activities for a child with a disability that:
- is designed to be within a results-oriented process, that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement of the child with a disability to facilitate the child’s movement from school to post-school activities, including post-secondary education, vocational education, integrated employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation;
- is based on the individual child’s needs, taking into account the child’s strengths, preferences, and interests; and 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 provision of a functional vocational evaluation.
Transition services for children with disabilities may be special education, if provided as specially designed instruction, or a related service, if required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from special education.
The chart below identifies key transitions points when a child's needs may be amplified.
Transitioning FROM……. |
Transitioning TO…….. |
Early Supports and Services (Early Intervention) |
Preschool |
Classroom |
New classroom at end of year |
Classroom |
New environments outside the classroom; and sometimes moving from one activity to another within the classroom |
Preschool |
Kindergarten |
Elementary |
Middle school |
Middle |
High School |
High school |
Independent living, secondary, vocational school, workforce |
Old teacher/para |
New teacher /para mid-year |