"Transition is envisioning where we want students to be in terms of living, employment, and post-secondary school options and determining and designing programs, services, and opportunities to help them get there."

When students graduate from high school, they often face a future that has more questions than answers. For students with disabilities, the future can be even more uncertain. Transition planning helps students with disabilities, and their families, prepare for the transition to adult life after graduation from high school.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004) defines transition services as a “coordinated set of activities for a student with a disability that is designed to be within a results-oriented process.” IDEA 2004 requires that transition services and activities must be included in the development of the IEP “no later than the first IEP to be in effect when the student turns 16, or younger if determined appropriate by the IEP Team.” and must include appropriate measurable postsecondary goals based upon age-appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment, and where appropriate, independent living skills.

Texas requirements for transition services are aligned to the federal requirements included in IDEA 2004. However, state law and rules include additional requirements for the provision of transition services for students receiving special education services in Texas. State law requires that “appropriate state transition planning must begin for a student not later than when the student reaches 14 years of age" (TEC Sec. 29.0111.), including consideration, and if appropriate addressing ten issues important to the development of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for students receiving special education services (TEC Sec. 29.011. Transition Planning).

For professional development opportunities and technical assistance at ESC Region 11, contact: Carla Johnson, 817-740-3614.