What are the steps to completing a transition IEP for a student?

What transition assessments have you used for your transition IEPs or you think you would use if you have not written a transition IEP before?

What are your personal experiences with transition IEPs?

 

           A transition plan is the section of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) that outlines transition goals and services for the student. The transition plan is based on a student's individual needs, strengths, skills, and interests.

Step-by-step explanation

           Like every IEP, the process should start with the Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance (PLAAFP) statement. Age-appropriate transition assessments help identify a student's strengths, interests, preferences, and needs. These assessments gather information to write post-secondary goals. Using a combination of formal and informal assessment tools collects information about a student's current functioning, strengths, and needs as they relate to adult living. Formal assessments are standardized instruments performed by trained personnel. Informal assessments tend to be more subjective, meaning that the results may be influenced by the person conducting the assessment. Informal assessments are helpful because they allow for a student to be observed in a natural environment.

           At the high school level, transition services for students who have LD and an IEP are available through their special education programs and general education programs. Special education staff provides assistance with counseling, identifying vocational interests, educational and vocational planning, goal setting, pre-vocational skills training, academic support, and linkages to specific programs and services (deFur 2003). Other transition-related services that are available to all high school students include guidance counseling, career center services, work experience education, academy programs, and career education vocational courses. Many transition planning activities and objectives are carried out at school.