Transition is the ongoing process that helps your student successfully move from the K–12 school system to adult life.

As your student gets older and progresses through school, their Individualized Education Program (IEP) is required to focus on preparing them for life after they graduate or “age-out” of the school system.

Transition services must be provided for eligible students ages 16–21 who receive special education services. It is requiredby federal law, state law, and school district policy.

Transition Planning

Transition planning takes a team. It is an ongoing and step-by-step process that uses information about your student to create goals for life after high school and a path to reach those goals.

Transition, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), refers to the shift from secondary to postsecondary activities and/or services. Transition does not occur in a single moment; rather it is an extended period of planning and instruction culminating with a shift to adult life. The goal is to prepare each individual student in accordance with their strengths, interests and challenges to be ready for that step forward.

Seattle Public Schools Programs and Services

All Seattle Public Schools students have access to programs and services that help prepare them for their transition to adulthood. Students with an IEP and a transition plan have access to additional programs and services.

BRIDGES 18-21 transition program

eXploratory Internship Program (XIP)

Resources

WA DSHS Home (Developmental Disabilities Association Washington State Department of Social and Health Services)

DVR  ( Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Washington State Department of Social and Health Services)

Opportunities to grow and develop (informingfamilies.org)
Information for individuals and families that empowers them to be active participants in planning and building a network of support and opportunities.

IEP Transition Planning (Understood.org)
Preparing for Young Adulthood