Transition Planning into Adulthood
Transition services are based on the individual student’s needs, taking into account his/her strengths, preferences, and interests. These services help young adults to live, work, participate in the community, and go on to further education or training as independently as possible when they leave high school.
Federal “Turning 22” Law
Transition services are defined by federal law (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA) as a “coordinated set of activities…designed to be within a results oriented process,…to facilitate the student’s movement from school to post-school activities.”
Massachusetts Resources:
MA Transition Planning Tool – Exceptional Lives
- MA Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Secondary TransitionTransition Timeline (Arc of Mass)
- Transition Timeline (Arc of Mass)
Educational Advocacy:
How to get Special Education Services Tool – Exceptional Lives
- Federation of Children with Special Needs (FCSN)Special Needs Advocacy Network (SPaN)
- Special Needs Advocacy Network (SPaN)
State Agencies:
Executive Office of Human & Health Services (EOHHS)
- Department of Mental Health (DMH)
- YouForward
- Department of Public Health (DPH)
- MassHealth (Medicaid)
Additional Resources:
MassOptions – Free resource that links you to services that help you or a loved one live independently
Supported Decision Making, Alternatives & Guardianship
Guardianship Tool – Exceptional Lives
Legal Support
Future Planning
- Center for Future Planning
- Health Insurance Support
Health Insurance Tool – Exceptional Lives- Massachusetts Health Connector
- The Insurance Resource Center for Autism and Behavioral Health
- Premium Assistance
Housing
Social Security
Social Security Tool – Exceptional Lives
Transportation
