Wrapping Up the School Year and Planning for the Future: Transition Planning for Youth
As another school year winds down, many families find themselves thinking about what’s next. For parents and those supporting youth with identified needs, it marks the beginning of a new phase, full of possibilities, decisions, some uncertainty and a long to-do list. Whether your child is finishing middle school or preparing to graduate, transition planning is the key to supporting their move toward a meaningful adult life.
One of the most important things families can do is start planning early. Talk with your child about their goals, dreams and interests. What do they enjoy? What are their hopes for after high school? These conversations shape goals and guide decisions about what supports and services they might need.
What the School Provides
If your child is on an Individualized Education Program (IEP), they’re entitled to transition planning services. This typically begins in high school, and the IEP team should work with you and your child to develop a plan focused on post-school goals like employment, education and independent living.
Other Tools and Resources for Families
Schools are just one part of the bigger picture. Families often benefit from looking beyond the IEP to find additional supports and resources that can help their child with planning and preparation.
Consider transition programs that explore job readiness, housing, social well-being, education and independent living skills. There are also post-secondary programs and skill-building courses tailored for young adults with identified needs. A variety of Minnesota colleges and community programs offer supported education or occupational training. Some examples are the BUILD Program at Bethel University and Project SEARCH.
Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) help individuals prepare for and maintain employment.
Here are some additional transition resources to consider:
- The Arc Minnesota’s Arc Guide to GetSet! for Transition Checklist
- Fraser’s Transition to Adulthood Plan (TAP) Transition to Adulthood Plan (TAP)
- PACER Center’s Transitioning to Life After High School
Home and Community-Based Services That Support Independence
As your child approaches adulthood, it’s important to explore resources beyond the school system, especially those that can support daily living, health and independence in their home and community. These services can be personalized to meet each person’s goals, preferences and level of need.
Some options to explore include these services offered by PICS:
Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS)
CDCS is a self-directed service that allows individuals to customize their services and support, including hiring caregivers, purchasing equipment or goods, and accessing therapies that promote independence. This option offers a high level of flexibility and control.
Community First Services and Supports (CFSS)
CFSS is a new service replacing the Consumer Support Grant (CSG) and Personal Care Assistance (PCA). It offers flexibility in choosing supports and services that best fit individual needs and has two service delivery options to choose from: the Budget Model or the Agency Model.
Individualized Home Supports (IHS)
IHS without training can support individuals in the form of guidance, assistance and supervision to provide for their continued experience living in the community.
Your child may be eligible for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) through Medical Assistance. If you are interested in Home and Community-Based services, the first step is to call your local Health and Human Services Agency and request a MnCHOICES assessment. The agency can provide you with information about the available programs, eligibility requirements and how to apply.
If you have questions about how to get started or which option might be right for you, we’re here to help. Contact us at 888.874.7427 or email us at [email protected].
Summer is a Perfect Time to Practice Independence
While school is out, summer provides a great opportunity to focus on real-life skills: budgeting, cooking, navigating transportation, volunteering or a summer job. These experiences build confidence and offer a glimpse of what’s possible.
Transitioning from school to adult life can feel like a big step. It doesn’t all happen at once, and you don’t have to figure it out alone. Start small, ask questions, and use the time at the end of the school year to build momentum towards what’s next.
Your role as a guide and support system is incredibly powerful and, with the right tools, your young person can take confident steps toward their future.
For more information, read our blog Transition planning: Aging out of high school.