Transition Planning: Preparing for Life After School

What is transition planning?

Transition planning is the process of preparing a young person with a disability for adult life — including education after high school, employment, where they will live, and how they will participate in their community. Under IDEA, transition planning must begin by age 16. Transition goals must be included in the IEP. Many experts recommend starting conversations earlier.

Services in Pennsylvania

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) oversees services for adults with intellectual disabilities. Eligibility requires a diagnosis before age 22. County-based offices coordinate local services — families should connect early, as waitlists can be long. The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) provides free employment support including job training, job coaching, and assistive technology.

Include the student in their own planning

Talk to your child about what they want for their future. Presume competence. Include them in conversations about their own life, even if participation looks different than you expect. Self-advocacy — speaking up for your own needs and rights — is something that can be built throughout the school years.