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What Parents Need to Know About Transition IEPs

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1. It’s Legally Required to Start by Age 16 (or earlier)

Under IDEA, schools must include a transition plan in the IEP by age 16 — but parents can request it earlier (age 14 is better, especially for planning high school courses).

 

2. The Student Must Be Involved

Your child is now a central voice in their plan. Transition planning should reflect:

  • What they want to do after high school (college, job, training)

  • Where they want to live

  • What kind of support they’ll need

 

Tip: Help your child explore their interests early, through job shadowing, volunteering, or career assessments.

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4. Academics Still Matter: But They Should Connect to Future Goals

High school courses should be aligned with the student’s goals:

  • College-bound students may need academic supports, test accommodations, or help with applications.

  • Students focused on job readiness may benefit from vocational classes, work-based learning, or functional academics (e.g., budgeting, reading schedules).

Ask: “How do these classes help my child reach their long-term goals?”

 

5. Life Skills Should Be Taught If Needed

If your child needs support in areas like:

  • Time management

  • Travel training (using public transportation)

  • Personal hygiene

  • Budgeting and banking

  • Self-advocacy

... these should be explicitly included in IEP goals and services.

 

6. Job Training and Work Experience Are Critical

Real-world experience is one of the most powerful predictors of post-school success.

Ask the IEP team:

  • Are there school-to-work programs, internships, or supported employment options?

  • Is there job coaching or vocational rehabilitation support?

  • Can my child earn a work credential or certification?

 

7. Outside Agencies Can Be Invited to the IEP

These might include:

  • Vocational Rehabilitation (VR)

  • Developmental Disabilities Services

  • Community colleges or trade schools

  • Medicaid Waiver programs

You must give written consent for outside agencies to attend.

 

8. It’s a Living Document

The Transition Plan should grow with your child. It should be updated at least once a year—and more often if your child’s goals or interests change.

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Summary: What to Ask at a Transition IEP Meeting

  • What are my child’s post-secondary goals?

  • How do academic and elective courses support those goals?

  • What job training or work-based learning opportunities are available?

  • What life skills does my child need, and how will they be taught?

  • What supports are in place for transition (e.g., travel training, budgeting)?

  • What agencies or programs can support the transition?

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