The transition from high school is challenging for any student, but for young adults with disabilities, it can be even more difficult. In addition to adjusting to increased academic demands in an environment where there is less structure and support, students have to navigate a disability services system that is very different from the one they knew in high school. But with the proper preparation, students can enjoy success! This practical guide explains how the system for accommodations works, describes students' rights and responsibilities within that system, and employs the voices of seasoned professionals and college students to explain the skills and strategies students should develop while they are in high school to ensure success when they reach college. As a bonus, it also offers answers to questions students with disabilities frequently ask about disclosing their disability in the admissions process.

This book is an authoritative volume of scholarship through qualitative and quantitative methodologies on postsecondary transition services for a diverse readership. The editor’s intended audience is composed of students with disabilities, school administrators, special education coordinators, colleges and university faculty, staff, and administrators, among other scholars, practitioners, and advocates. Readers of this volume will be educated on the postsecondary transition process, and the lifelong commitment of educators who guides students with disabilities through their rigorous, yet rewarding journey. This book also can be used by student personnel administrators, employers, student retention coordinators, and workforce development professionals to improve the implementation of postsecondary transition services. The importance of comprehensive transition planning for students with disabilities is the impetus for bringing this collaborative effort to print. Topics in this volume highlight areas that have critical implications for children and adolescents’ preparation for adulthood. Contributors’ presents potent research regarding various topics addressing P-16 students’ needs, and have been active practitioners in both areas – transition services and disabilities as defined under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004. Ultimately, this book is a collection of interrelated chapters that offer rich content and insights into current trends for individuals with disabilities who are moving through various stages of their lives.

"Covering transition policies and practices, Transition Planning for Secondary Students with Disabilities, 4th edition, emphasizes how to let student goals and future environments guide transition planning and programming. The text tackles a range of transition topics from legislative policies to specific transition activities. A strong theme emphasizes four essential elements of transition and connects content across chapters and topics. Unlike other books, this one offers a unique backward planning process that focuses on a student's self-determined goals and post-school environments as a basis for current transition planning."-- Back cover.

A Collaborative Approach to Transition Planning for Students with Disabilities is designed to inform aspiring special education teachers, special education teams, transition planning specialists and school administrators about the complex process of transition planning and to meet the transition requirements of special education legislation. Author Dr. JoAnn Rae has been in the field of special education for 34 years, in service as a special education teacher, special education administrator, teacher certification supervisor and as college faculty. The framework she outlines is specially designed to advance students’ involvement and participation in their lives, not only in the presence of the most severe sensory and intellectual disabilities, but also in the case of multiple disabilities. Unique scenarios not typically seen in other textbooks, such as IEP team disagreements, students with terminal illnesses, students with ill or overworked parents or students living in poverty are also explored. The text also includes: Descriptions of research-based practices to maximize students’ self-determination, autonomy, goal setting and ability to have successful life experiences Opportunities to integrate knowledge with practice by providing strategies that relate to the real-life difficulties students and transition planning specialists may encounter Easy-to-replicate communication tools, such as letters to students and parents, as examples to enhance collaboration Methods for teachers to effectively promote and increase student involvement and collaboration by using structured and interactive interviews A Collaborative Approach to Transition Planning for Students with Disabilities reflects the universal challenges that teachers, families and finally, the students themselves face, as they progress through school with a disability. For students with disabilities, the key component to successful transition planning is creating a collaborative atmosphere that allows them to be successful. This book promises to serve as an essential resource to all who are dedicated to that goal.

Aimed at parents of and advocates for special needs children, explains how to develop a relationship with a school, monitor a child's progress, understand relevant legislation, and document correspondence and conversations.

Addressing the full range of curricular and instructional issues that face professionals working in middle school, high school, and post-high school programs, Successful Transition Programs: Pathways for Students With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Second Edition is the most relevant text available for teachers and administrators. Authors John McDonnell and Michael L. Hardman take the position that the most effective transition programs are those that cumulatively build on the capacity of students for employment, community living, and citizenship. Key Features and Benefits Covers systematic transition planning, employment preparation, participation in the general education curriculum, instruction in community settings, and preparing students to live as independently as possible Aligns with recommended practice in the field and with federal legislation governing educational and community service programs Contains ecological curriculum models for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities Includes focus review questions, real-life example windows, and point/counterpoint boxes from key researchers on controversial issues to help readers connect the book's concepts with the typical needs of students

"As mandated by federal law, schools must assist students with disabilities in developing appropriate goals and transition plans for life after high school. Written for teachers and student assistance professionals, this comprehensive and practical book focuses on how the planning process can prepare students for the greater independence of postsecondary settings. Recognizing that students with disabilities have a wide range of needs, this resource discusses the transition requirements of various postsecondary options, including colleges, universities, career and technical training programs, and employment. Developed by highly regarded experts, this authoritative guide includes: the most up-to-date information on key legislation that affects transition services and the rights and responsibilities of students and professionals; advice for helping students document disabilities, develop self-advocacy skills, and seek accommodations; information about postsecondary resources on campus and in the community; students' personal stories and a look at the role of family involvement. An overview of transition considerations for middle school youth."--Publisher's website.