KDR - Transition

Description: Transition is the “exit” out of a child’s secondary school to the adult world. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires that children with disabilities have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that prepares them for further education, employment, and independent living. One strategy for ensuring a successful transition, is planning. As part of IDEA, schools are required to provide transition planning to help the student identify interests, strengths, preferences and needs. Transition planning also means identifying possible post-school activities, including postsecondary education, vocational education, integrated employment, continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, and/or community participation. Transition is also developing a coordinated set of activities for a student that will help him or her to achieve those goals.

Transition services include:
instruction, related services, community experiences, and development of employment and adult living objectives.

How can I apply for transition services?
IDEA states that the student’s school must begin transition planning, as part of the Individual Education Program (IEP) by age 16. Measurable post-school goals must be identified along with the transition services and courses needed to reach those goals. Your son or daughter should be an active partner in planning for transition. In Kentucky, transition planning must start even earlier – by your child’s eighth grade year or by age 14. Transition planning for students starting at age 14 should focus on the student’s IEP as it relates to his or her course of study.

How can I learn more?
Contact your child’s IEP Coordinator or the KY Department of Education KY Department of Education Division of Learning Services (502) 564-4970