IDEA's Transition Requirements
IDEA requires transition planning in the IEP starting no later than this age, but states may require transition planning to be included even earlier
16 years old
The acronym we learned to help remember what transition assessment assesses
SPIN
An appropriate postsecondary goal for Grace, who enjoys working with young children and wants to work full-time after high school and does not want to go to college.
Something like...
After high school, Grace will work full-time as a childcare assistant at a daycare.
Once transition planning is included in the IEP, the student's transition needs must be assessed and the plan updated at least this often
Annually
S stands for this component of transition assessments
Strengths (functional and academic)
An appropriate postsecondary goal for Mia, who wants to go to college to study art history.
Something like...
After high school, Mia will attend a four-year college and major in art history.
Individuals required to attend IEP meetings that include transition planning
Student, guardian, EXED teacher, general education teacher, administrator (or LEA representative), and someone who can explain the evaluation results
P stands for this component of transition assessments
Preferences related to learning and school
An appropriate postsecondary goal for Jasmine, who wants to become a certified nursing assistant after high school.
Something like...
After high school, Jasmine will enroll in a two-year community college nursing assistant program.
Transition planning should address three aspects of the student's life after high school
Independent living goals
Postsecondary education or vocational training goals
Postsecondary employment goals
I stands for this component of transition assessments
Interests, including hobbies and postsecondary goals
An appropriate postsecondary goal for Logan, who wants to be more independent and learn to cook for himself.
Something like...
After high school, Logan will independently plan, grocery shop, and prepare his own meals.
Three key principles of an effective, IDEA-compliant transition plan
Results-oriented
Includes interagency collaboration and community-based experiences
N stands for this component of transition assessment
Needs (including SDI, accommodations, and skills needed to reach their postsecondary goals)
An appropriate postsecondary goal for Chloe, who has a visual impairment that prevents her from driving and wants to get around her community and get to and from work independently.
Something like...
After high school, Chloe will use public transportation independently to get to work and community activities.