Your School

Your school can help you get ready for life after high school. There are people and programs at school that can support you as you work toward your goals for learning, getting a job, and living on your own.

Your IEP - Individualized Education Program

If you’re 14 or older and have an IEP, it will include a Transition Plan.  Your Transition Plan is a roadmap to help you prepare for life after high school. Your Transition Plan includes goals in the areas of:

  • Education or training
  • Employment
  • Independent living (if needed)

It also outlines the steps and services that will support you in reaching those goals while you're still in school.

Start with a Vision

Creating a vision for your life after high school is one of the most important things you can do. What does your “good life” look like? What do you want to learn, do, and be?

Charting the LifeCourse Tools can help you and your family create that vision and take steps toward it. Connect with LifeCourse to get started.

Next Steps

  • Ask your School Counselor what your school offers all students that will help you achieve your postsecondary goals.
  • Attend and participate in your IEP meeting. Come prepared by reading Empower YOUR future: Join YOUR IEP meeting! and IEP: Tips for the Transition Section.
  • Ask your case manager, school counselor or Division of Rehabilitation counselor about career planning, job exploration, and work-based experiences.

How Your School Can Support You

Here are some ways your school can help you prepare for adulthood:

  • Help you build a Transition Plan that reflects your goals, strengths, and interests.
  • Provide work-based learning experiences, like job shadowing, internships, or part-time jobs.
  • Offer classes and activities that teach life skills, such as money management, self-advocacy, or independent living.
  • Connect you with adult service agencies, like Vocational Rehabilitation (DORS), that can help after graduation.
  • Support you in exploring education or training options, including college, trade schools, or apprenticeships.
  • Encourage your voice in IEP meetings so that your plan is truly your own.

Resources for you:

Transition Plan:

Post-Secondary Education: