Transition
What is Secondary Transition?
Secondary Transition is the process of preparing students for adult life after they leave high school. Transition planning begins at age 14, or younger if determined appropriate by the IEP team, as students consider their goals for the time after graduation through career awareness exploration activities. The transition process continues through high school as academic instruction and community experiences help clarify and support the student's goals. The entire process is based on individual student needs, taking into account each student’s strengths, preferences and interests. 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.
Pennsylvania educators facilitate successful student transition by using a six-step process to develop the IEP; guide the way for students, families, educators, and service providers; and prepare students to cross the “bridge” to adult life. http://www.secondarytransition.org
Transition Resources
Resources for students transition age (minimum 14 years or older):
Office for Vocational Rehabilitation:
The Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, or OVR, provides vocational rehabilitation services to help persons with disabilities prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment.
Click here for more information.
Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living (LVCIL):
LVCIL is a non-profit organization based in Allentown, PA that provides services and support to people with all types of disabilities.
Click here for more information.
Via of the Lehigh Valley:
Via of the Lehigh Valley is a non-profit agency that provides services for children and adults with disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy and Down syndrome. Via's staff and volunteers help individuals and families from birth through retirement to gain life skills, obtain meaningful employment and develop social connections.
Click here for more information.
The Arc of Lehigh & Northampton Counties NextSTEP Program
The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties champions a life of inclusion, opportunity, and equity for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through advocacy, education, and supports.
Click here for information about their NextSTEP Program