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Transition Services

Transition services is a coordinated set of activities oriented toward producing results.  Transition services are intended to prepare students to move from the world of school to adulthood.  Transition takes place before the child reaches age 14 and updated annually.  Transition planning considers post-secondary goals, vocational training, employment, independent living, and community participation.  Transition services are based on the student's preferences and interest. 

  • Enrolled in special education with an Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  • Based on individual needs, strengths, interest, and preferences gathered by assessment/interviews with student, parent, and staff
  • Annually discussed at IEP Meeting age 13+
  • Components of Self-Determination: Decision making, problem solving, independent living, goal setting, self-advocacy and leadership skills, risk taking, self-awareness
  • IEP Goal developed for plans after high school 

Schools and community agencies must work together to provide transition services to students with disabilities.

At age 18, all individuals, including those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, reach the legal age of majority. This means that a parent can no longer make decisions legally on behalf of their children. Most people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities can manage their own affairs with assistance and guidance from others, such as family and friends. If guardianship is necessary, it should be tailored to the person's needs. Families considering guardianship should learn more about the process and other options available before making a final decision.  It's never too early to start learning and preparing for your child's future. 

You can visit Texas SPED Support for the online Texas Transition and Employment Guide, which provides information on statewide services and programs that assist students with disabilities in the transition to life outside of the public school system. Send comments or additional thoughts to sped@tea.texas.gov.

                              Transition & Employment Guide

Fact Sheet    English     Spanish

Texas Transition  Fact Sheet

Graduation Toolkit       English      Spanish

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