The Transition IEP

The Transition IEP (Individualized Education Program) is like a road map for your student’s future life. It will help your student decide what they want their future life to look like, and what steps they need to take to reach their goals.

Between 9th and 12th grade, it would be wise to monitor how much credit your student receives towards graduation from each class and document it in the IEP. IEP teams should be clear with parents about anticipated graduation dates, and that services end when the student completes their regular high school diploma.

The Transition IEP should begin at age 14 but can begin even sooner if you and your team decide your student is ready to begin transition planning. Along with all other goals and accommodations needed to provide free and appropriate public education (FAPE), the transition IEP should also include the following elements:

1. Employment Goals
2. Classes needed to help meet those goals.

It may also include the following:

1. Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Activities
2. Additional team members who can assist the student in reaching transition goals (ex: Voc Rehab Counselor)
3. Self-Advocacy Goals

By age 17, it should include:

1. The post-high plan
2. Decision on whether parents will be pursuing guardianship

These online resources can assist young adults and their families in Transition IEP planning.

Youth Transition Workbook (yellow section)

Transition Elevated

Transition From School to Adult Life: Section 2 page, 11