Planning for transition to post-secondary education or entry into the workforce can begin when the child is 14 years old. Through transition planning, students can make informed choices about their goals. Planning includes considerations of strengths, abilities, and desires, as well as requirements for career pathways. Other than planning for college or employment, transition planning includes skill development such as self-advocacy, disclosure, accessibility needs and independent living. 

Your Bright Future!

Supported by the Texas Workforce Commission, K-12 students and their parents can begin transition planning. Assessments, tool kits and contact information for the closest vocational rehabilitation counselor.

The 411 on Disability

The 411 on Disability Disclosure: A Workbook for Youth with Disabilities, written for youth and the adults who work with them, can help individuals make decisions whether to disclose their disability or not.

Post-secondary Transition Online Module for Parents and their Teens

An online self-paced course for parents and teens seeking guidance and resources on transition planning to prepare for life after high school. Offered by Texas Hands and Voices

Individualized Learning Plan

The US Department of Education offers a guide, KICKSTART, to support students with their individualized learning plan (ILP) with a checklist and additional resources.

TexasCTE

Career and Technical Education (CTE) is an important part of transition. CTE begins in the classroom. This website provides TEKS-aligned resources and activities for education professionals.

Assessment tools for transition planning are skills or goal-oriented. They are tools to identify the strengths and preferences of a young individual. Assessments are useful guides for professionals as they develop instruction or training. Older youth also benefit from understanding their skill sets and how those skills align with their career or independent living goals.

There are various types of assessments available. Many transition centers, organizations or workforce centers offer assessments. Additionally, ask school staff about assessments they provide. 

To see the different types of transition available, the Quickbook of Transition Assessments provides general information on transition assessments with some samples. 

For students curious how a transition-focused assessment might look like, they can try this interactive game, Deaf Verse.