What’s a Transition Plan? Nudge your school district to create a transition plan for your child

When asked about his plans for the future, Ian promptly explains that he will own and operate his own independent computer game company. While Ian might have great tech skills, he does not currently possess the social skills to work in the mailroom of a business, nevermind the corner office. At the moment, Ian’s IEP states that he wants to be this gamer mogul, but does not attempt to explain how Ian will achieve this lofty goal. Nor does it explain how Ian might gains the necessary skills to hold a summer job or finish an Associates Degree. That’s not how things should work.

Legally, schools must create a transition plan — a set of realistic living and employment goals for every IEP student after age 14, along with steps about how to achieve those goals. Those plans must be reviewed and updated every year.

Like everything related to special education, there is theory and there is reality. And sometimes, legally mandated procedures still need a privately hired attorney to ensure enforcement. Bah. Don’t get me annoyed.