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Transition Services

Transition

Definition

A coordinated set of activities for a student with a disability, designed to facilitate movement from school to post-school life. Transition planning must begin no later than the first IEP in effect when the student turns 16 (earlier in some states). Services are based on the student's strengths, preferences, and interests.

Legal Reference:20 U.S.C. § 1401(34)

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State-Specific Notes

California

Transition planning begins at age 16 (matching federal requirement). Individual Transition Plan (ITP) is part of the IEP.

New York

Transition planning must begin at age 15, one year earlier than the federal mandate.

Oregon

Transition planning must begin at age 16. Oregon has strong community-based transition programs.

Laws vary by state. IEP Advocate.ai provides state-specific legal guidance for all 50 states.

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