Transitions Rights

MASSACHUSETTS ADVOCATES for CHILDREN
M Massachusetts Advocates for Children
25 Kingston Street, 2nd. Floor Boston, MA 02111
Tel. 617.357.8431 · Fax 617.357.8438 · www.massadvocates.org
100IMPORTANT NOTICE
Parents of Children with Disabilities

NEW Transition Rights for all 14 and 15 year olds!
(Chapter 205 of the Acts of 2008)

In August, Governor Patrick signed a new law (S.286) which requires school districts to initiate special education transition planning and transition services at age 14, rather than age 16. Parents and educators applaud law-makers for this critical legislation, as delay until age 16 (the middle of high school) is too late to facilitate effective transition planning.

What to do if you are the parent of a 14 or 15 year old?

Ø Request an IEP meeting (in writing) to discuss transition using the Transition Planning Form

Note: The IEP Transition Planning Form is simply a planning document, and is not included in your child’s IEP

Ø Request a transition assessment (in writing) to address transition goals, objectives, and services

Ø Make sure that your child’s IEP includes measurable IEP transition goals and objectives related to
o Training
o Education
o Employment
o Independent living, as appropriate

Ø Your child is entitled to transition services that will help meet her transition goals and facilitate movement to post-school activities, including:
o Instruction
o Related services
o Community experience
o Development of employment (including integrated supported employment)
and other post-school adult living objectives
o Acquisition of daily living skills
o Functional vocational evaluation

Be sure to list specific transition services in the IEP.

Ø Transition goals and services must be based on your child’s needs, taking into account his strengths, preferences, and interests.

Ø Your child must be invited to the IEP Team meeting starting at age 14. Help to determine the best way for your child to participate.

For more information contact Leslie Lockhart, 617-357-8431 x 226 (llockhart@massadvocates.org) or Terri McLaughlin, 617-236-7210 x336 (tmclaugh@fcsn.org)