As students with disabilities prepare to move from high school to higher education or enter the workforce, careful planning is essential. This transition is a critical time to assess their unique needs, especially concerning the use of assistive technology and necessary accommodations.
Who Needs to Be Involved?
Students with disabilities, along with their families, educators, and transition specialists, should work together to identify the supports and resources that will best assist the student in this new chapter.
What Should Be Considered?
- Assistive Technology:
- Tools and Devices: Review the assistive technology currently used by the student to determine its effectiveness in post-secondary settings or the workplace. Explore whether additional tools or devices may be needed to support communication, learning, or mobility.
- Proficiency and Training: Ensure that the student is comfortable using their assistive technology. If new tools are necessary, provide training well before graduation.
- Accommodations:
- In Higher Education: Investigate the accommodations available at prospective colleges or universities. Understand how to request these accommodations and gather any required documentation in advance.
- In the Workforce: Learn about the student’s rights under disability laws and how to request reasonable accommodations in the workplace, such as modifications to the physical environment or flexible work arrangements.
When Should Planning Begin?
Transition planning should start early, ideally in the student’s sophomore or junior year of high school. This allows time to explore options, identify needed resources, and ensure the student is ready for life beyond high school.
Why is This Planning Critical?
The transition from high school is a significant milestone, and thoughtful preparation can help ensure that students with disabilities have equal opportunities to succeed in higher education or the workforce. By addressing assistive technology needs and understanding the process for securing accommodations, students can confidently approach this next phase of life.
Transition Resource Guides
