Transition is the process of preparing students for adult life after they leave high school. It is part of the IEP process for students with disabilities and begins, at least by the age of 14, as students consider their goals for the time after graduation. Transition planning begins with career awareness exploration activities and continues through high school with academic instruction and community experiences to help refine and support students’ post-school goals. The entire transition/IEP process is based on individual student’s needs, taking into account each student’s strengths, preferences, and interests. The planning process involves the student, the family, relevant educational staff, and relevant community agencies.Transition can be thought of as a bridge between school programs and the opportunities of adult life, including higher education or training, employment, independent living and community participation.To learn more about transition, please visit the state website at www.secondarytransition.org or call the Special Education Office at 724.438.4501.
Additional Resources
Web Resources- PA Training and Technical and Assistance Network (PaTTAN)
- Family Engagement for Secondary Transition
- Secondary Transition Guide
- Community Agencies
- Video training (View by topic- Secondary Transition)
- NTACT:C | National Technical Assistance Center on Transition: The Collaborative (transitionta.org)
- PA Secondary Transition
- PaTTAN – Secondary Transition
- PA Career Ready Skill Toolkit
Career Exploration & Future Planning
- PA Career Zone
- My Next Move
- Planning for the Future Checklist
(OR Download the free App for iOS or Android ~ PA Planning For the Future)
Post-Secondary Education/Training
Post-Secondary Employment
- The Importance of Employment: Why Work?
- Job Skills: Getting Ready for Work
- Preparing for Employment
- Customized Employment
Independent Living