1. Career and Vocational Training In k-12
Career, Vocational, and Transition Planning
Drake University

2. Transitional Planning
During life we all go through transition periods.
The first one is leaving home and going to school.
The next one might be going to middle school, then high school.
At the end of high school we might enter the world of work or continue on to college.
Another might be moving out on our own.
Finally, some of us might experience marriage and children.
How did we handle all these transitions in our life?

3. Start early with special education students
Begin with parent involvement.
Involved parents can help you with transition.
Involve students as much as possible with their IEP.
Involve agencies early if they are needed for support and resources.

4. Elementary into Middle School
Get to know the middle school that your students transition to.
A. Know the teachers your students will have.
B. Know the classes that are offered at the school.
C. Communicate with the teachers about your students.

5. Middle School to High School
Know the feeder school where students in your program usually go.
Make it a point to communicate with the teachers of that school.
If possible, invite those teachers to an IEP meeting.
Know the courses offered at the high school level and the graduation requirements.
Get your students to advocate for themselves about their disability and accommodations.

6. High School to Post-Secondary
Know the adult agencies and what services they provide.
If they need agency help, make sure that they are signed up or on the list before exiting high school.
Know the staff in your school to see what teachers are a good fit for your students.
Encourage all your students to go to their IEP meetings.
Find out the differences between high school and college for people with disabilities in your area.

7. High School to Post-Secondary
Encourage career and adult living skill classes for your students.
Assist students in getting a job or get them involved in a work experience.
Have students look into job shadows and research careers they might be interested in.
Teach students about their disabilities and their abilities.
Research job market in your area.
Build networks with businesses or through people you know.