Projects

Secondary Transition Services

Funded by: Department of Education, Division of Exceptional Learners and Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services.

Transition is the process by which a student moves from school to adult life. It can be an exciting as well as intimidating time, bringing both new opportunities and new challenges. For students with disabilities, the transition from high school to postschool options is a complex process that requires planning and coordination to ensure appropriate supports and positive outcomes.

The purpose of transition planning is to help students and families think about their future, jointly plan high school experiences and course work, and help students and families make service connections. A multi-year process, effective transition planning leads students to better postschool outcomes, such as employment or college as well as participation in their communities. Transition services and activities should be approached as part of a unified system of education where collaborative efforts are enhanced by the structures and service delivery options available in schools.

In collaboration with the Indiana Department of Education and Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation Services, the Center on Community Living and Careers (CCLC) at Indiana University’s Indiana Institute on Disability and Community provides a variety of training and facilitation to give educators and adult service providers the tools necessary to develop and implement quality transition services and activities. Outreach trainings emphasize that students, families, school personnel, and Vocational Rehabilitation counselors are partners, sharing in the seamless system of transition to adult life.

Training topics include:
• How to Develop a Quality Transition IEP
• Community-based Instruction
• Age-appropriate Transition Assessments
• Student-focused Planning
• Student Development (such as life skills instruction)
• Career and Vocational Development
• Developing Paid and Non-paid Work Experiences
• Family Involvement
• Interagency Collaboration
• Program Structures

In addition to training, a comprehensive program evaluation is available upon request. These evaluations are intended to identify particular strengths and weaknesses and provide recommendations to help move schools and adult service providers toward a more seamless system of transition.

For more information about secondary transition services, contact Teresa Grossi at the Center on Community Living and Careers, (812) 855-6508, or tgrossi@indiana.edu

Informational Brochure (pdf format)