1. Transition
No matter how impossible it may seem never underestimate the power of a dream.

2. Definition
A coordinated set of activities for a pupil with educational disabilities, designed within an outcome-oriented process, that promotes movement from school to post-school activities, including post-secondary education, vocational training, integrated employment( including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, and community participation.
New Jersey Special Education Code on Transition ( NJAC 6:28), 1.2, Definition.

3. My favorite Definition of Transition
A change in status from behaving primarily as a student to assuming emergent adult roles in the community.
( deFur, Todd-Allen, & Getzel, 2001)

4. 7 components Employment
Living arrangements and community participation
Getting around the community
Financial independence
Making friends
Sexuality and self-esteem
Having fun

5. It is law
IDEA ( PL ) ensures that all children with a disabilities have related services designed to prepare them for employment and independent living; this should culminate into an IEP/Transition Plan. The transition plan must be incorporated with the IEP when the student is 16.

6. Self Determination/Person Centered Planning
*Attitudes, abilities, and skills that lead people to define goals for themselves and to take the initiative to reach these goals.
( Ward, 1988)
*Get the student involved with the IEP/Transition Process!!!!!!

7. Ages 14-16
Educate parents/guardians about Division of Developmental Disabilities( DDD) and Division of Vocational Rehabilitation( DVR)
Educate families about the post- school puzzle
Discuss starting a job/transition portfolio ( interest inventories, student needs and preference surveys, needed services and supports, work history)
On site job sampling ( classroom jobs, school jobs)
Community Based Instruction
Social connection to the community ( extra curricular activities, Special Olympics)
Identify year of graduation
Create positive student profile identifying strengths and dreams

8. Ages 16-18 Review DDD and DVR services
Review and add to transition portfolio
Discuss and review post school puzzle ( living, transportation, work)
Discuss job sampling in community( each year a goal of 4/5 job sampling experiences in portfolio)
Community Based Instruction/Functional Academics versus inclusion
Add to student profile ( strengths, dreams)
Social connection to community

9. Ages 18-21
Review and invite DDD and DVR case manager at IEP/Transition Meeting
Discuss living arrangements, transportation, and employment
Discuss Social Security/Medicaid ( students with developmental disability can apply for SSI at age 18 regardless of parent income)
Review and add to student profile
Review and add to transition portfolio
Job placement
Discuss service agencies
Discuss Guardianship