Collaboration, Communication, and Transition
What this domain tests
This domain tests family and team collaboration, culturally responsive communication, and transition planning that prepares students for adult life.
Core rules
- Family partnership: use cultural reciprocity, provide qualified interpreters, share information in plain language, and document communication. Parents are equal IEP team members.
- Confidentiality: share student information on a need-to-know basis under FERPA and IDEA.
- Transition planning begins by age 16, or 14 in some states, and includes measurable postsecondary goals in education/training, employment, and, if needed, independent living; transition assessments; courses of study; and agency participation.
- Age of majority: rights transfer to the student at 18 unless guardianship or another arrangement applies; the IEP must notify the student.
- Summary of performance is provided at exit with academic achievement and functional performance.
- Interagency collaboration may include vocational rehabilitation, developmental disabilities agencies, and postsecondary disability services.
Worked example
A 16-year-old with autism wants to work with animals. The team writes a postsecondary employment goal: 'After high school, the student will obtain a paid position at an animal shelter or kennel.' Education/training goal: 'The student will complete a veterinary-assistant certificate.' Transition assessments show strengths in routine tasks and needs in interviewing. The IEP includes an internship, a communication goal, a VR referral, and a self-advocacy goal.
Traps
- Waiting until the senior year to begin transition.
- Writing annual IEP goals instead of long-term postsecondary goals.
- Excluding the student from transition planning.
- Treating transition as only college planning.
- Promising services from another agency without confirming eligibility.