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What do we mean by TRANSITION?

The word “Transition” means change or movement.  Students go through many transitions, from entering school, moving from preschool to kindergarten to elementary, middle, and high school, and graduation and movement into adulthood.  For students receiving support through Special Education, these transitions typically require more thought, planning, and preparation than other students may require.  

Transition planning should be a lifelong process in which stakeholders (student, family members, friends, and professionals) work together to develop a plan of action that will lead to a successful adult life.  As part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a student’s IEP will include plans for this transition beginning at the age of 14 (in Texas -- federal law requires by the age of 16).  

This transition planning includes:

  • Age-appropriate transition assessments
     

  • Appropriate measurable postsecondary goals in the areas of training, education, employment, and independent living skills based on assessments
     

  • The transition services and courses of study needed to help student reach those goals
     

  • Annual goals that represent the steps needed to prepare for achieving the postsecondary goals

 

For students receiving support through Special Education, these transitions typically require more thought, planning, and preparation than other students may require.  

Transition services refer to a coordinated set of activities that promote movement from school to post-school activities, including:
 

  • Postsecondary education
     

  • Vocational assessment and/or training
     

  • Integrated employment (including supported employment)
     

  • Continuing and adult education
     

  • Adult services
     

  • Independent living skills, or
     

  • Community participation

Students with disabilities who are getting closer to graduation have the right to transition services.  Watch this video to learn more about transition services and your legal rights.  

 

General Transition Resources

What Can Parents & Families Do To Support Youth During the Transition Process?

Tips and ideas that parents and families can do beginning at an early age to encourage gradual independence, participate in the community, teach self-advocacy skills, and develop skills that will be necessary for future employment.

Texas Transition & Employment Guide

The Texas Transition and Employment Guide provides information on statewide services and programs that assist in the transition to life outside of the public school system. This guide covers such topics as:

  • Transition services

  • Employment and supported employment services

  • Social Security programs

  • Community and long-term services and support

  • Postsecondary educational programs and services

  • Information sharing with Health and Human Services agencies and providers

  • Guardianship and alternatives to guardianship, including a supported decision-making agreement under Chapter 1357, Estates Code; self-advocacy, person-directed planning, and self-determination

  • Contact information for all relevant state agencies

Texas Transition and Employment Guide (English) 

Texas Transition and Employment Guide (Spanish)

Texas Transition and Employment Guide (Chinese)

Texas Transition and Employment Guide (Vietnamese)

Texas Transition and Employment Guide (Korean)

Navigate Life Texas

An online resource for parents or caregivers of children with disabilities or special health care needs.  Find tools, support, and inspiration to help you on your journey.  

The Journey to Life After High School:  A Road Map for Parents of Children with Special Needs 

Very comprehensive resource including information about the transition process, employment options, day programs, housing, securing benefits, and preparing for your child's long-term future.

 

While it may be hard to imagine your child as an adult out in the world or what he or she will be doing once the school bus is no longer coming, that time will be here before you know it.  

 

Accessing Community-Based Supports & Services

Resources & Help Available:  Get on the Waiting Lists Now

Accessing Waiting Lists for Medicaid Waiver Programs 

Instructions on how to get on the interest/waiting lists for community-based services through making two phone calls.  Texas has the second-longest waiting lists in the country so parents are recommended to get on the lists AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, even if you aren’t sure you will need the services.  

Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs Chart (5-2024)

Comparison of the different long-term support waiver programs as well as the different services available under each of the programs.

Explanation of IDD Services & Supports (HHS 7-2019)

Brief description of intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) services and supports provided by the Texas Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC).

 

Agencies

Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehabilitation Services

TWS helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, or retain employment and helps youth and students prepare for post-secondary opportunities.  This is a link to their website.