A Transition Plan is mandated by both the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and state law and regulations. IDEA is routinely reauthorized so changes occur. The most recent reauthorization of IDEA occurred at the end of 2004. The Federal law says transition should start no later than age 16. Currently, Illinois Special Education law “requires that beginning not later than the first IEP to be in effect when the child turns 14½, and updated annually thereafter, the IEP shall include: 1) appropriate, measurable, postsecondary goals based upon age-appropriate assessments related to employment, education or training, and as needed independent living; 2) the transition services that are needed to assist the child in reaching those goals, including courses of study and any other needed services to be provided by entities other than the school district.” *Providers outside of the school district can also be invited to attend IEP meetings for students who may need their services.
A Summary of Performance must also be completed for students leaving/exiting school. This form must be completed in the final year prior to the student exiting high school. It contains information about the student’s academic and vocational preparation and plans for post-school activities. Follow-up will be required by school districts to determine post-school outcomes and this information will be reported to the federal government. More information about the Summary of Performance: https://www.isbe.net/Documents/summary-of-performance0512.pdf#search=Summary%20of%20Performance
Transition Services
Transition from High School to Adult Services – Main Page
Person Centered Planning
ISBE and TOTAL Project Resources
MAPS & PATHS
Written Transition Plans in the IEP
Transition and DHS Division of Rehabilitation Services – Vocational Rehabilitation