Image via WikipediaThis is the most recent post in the continuing series on an introduction to special education law. In today's post we will be discussing the transition services that must be given when a special education student nears graduation.
Transition
The IDEA defines transition services as a coordinated set of activities designed to be a results oriented process that focuses upon the individual child’s needs, strengths and preferences. IDEA, § 602 (34). Not later than the first IEP to be in effect when the child is 16 years old and each year thereafter, the IDEA requires that the IEP contain measurable postsecondary goals; the transition services needed to achieve those goals; and beginning at one year before the child reaches the age of majority, a statement that the student has been informed regarding transfer of rights. IDEA § 614 (d)(1)(A)(i)(VIII). 34 C.F.R. § 300.43, 300.320(b) Policy 2419, Ch. 5, § 2(F).
"the transtion services needed to achieve those goals..." how many transition services are required by law? ...as many as the parents and IEP team can think of? You just trippled the cost of that child's education. 70% of students entering a college program don't finish. People rarely achieve goals. Let's bankrupt the K-12 system with unfunded and unrealistic mandates. Transition services though age 21, more $. Hold the diploma's until they're ready? According to whom? Why did the Sec. of Ed. give colleges $11.9 million for "cognitive disabilities" programs and zero to K-12 districts that are required to keep them? Where do they go at 18? Mixed messages and laws, and no $ = failure
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