This paper conceptualizes transition as an outcome-oriented process leading to quality of life for individuals with disabilities. The paper discusses theoretical issues pertaining to the definition and conceptualization of quality of life, research findings in this area, and issues that should be addressed in the future. (Author/JDD)

The research literature is reviewed for transitions from birth to eight years. A model describes transition as a change in ecocultural niche, requiring accommodations in daily routines for a child, family, and service providers and transition impact measures the number of accommodations required and the sustainability of daily routines.…

Discusses facilitating culturally sensitive transition plans for young children transitioning to kindergarten and their families. Addresses transition roles for families and adapting transition roles for culturally diverse families. Stresses the need for transition teams to emphasize continuity, communication, collaboration, and family concerns.…

At a policy forum on transition, 30 participants addressed special education, rehabilitation, and the School-to-Work Initiative. Recommendations were made in the following areas: considering transition as a pre-kindergarten through age 16 issue, promoting schools' responsibility for all students, cultivating leadership, working effectively with…

This article traces the history of transition programs for adolescents with disabilities and the role that transition plays within current reform efforts. Best practices are discussed and strategies for school programs are provided, including individualized planning, involvement of family and support networks, a focus on community outcomes, and…

This study analyzed the impact that the use of Person Centered Planning (PCP) had with 10 transition-age students receiving special education services. Interviews with students, parents, and educators indicated that PCP training was associated with various indicators of service provision as well as higher satisfaction with the planning process.…

Examines use of the Plan for Achieving Self-Support (PASS) work incentive available for persons with disabilities receiving Supplemental Security Income. PASS program data are analyzed for demographic factors, disability status, occupational goals, and requested items and services. Findings indicate few transition-age students used PASSes and that…

Twenty-seven disability technology specialists identified facilitators and barriers when moving from secondary education to post-secondary settings and from post-secondary settings to adult life. Common themes include increasing professional knowledge, improving student self-determination, using best transition practices within assistive…

Discussion of the relationship between the school-to-career transition research findings and current school reform argues that secondary special educators should align their advocacy and research efforts within a "whole school reform" context as opposed to a "students with disabilities" context. Analysis examines program administration, curriculum…

In 1995, the Southwest Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) of the Los Angeles County School District, and El Camino College pioneered a partnership to serve students with disabilities on the community college campus. SELPA transition services serve as a model for alliances between community colleges and school districts throughout…

The National Dropout Prevention Center for Students with Disabilities (NDPC-SD) was assigned the task of compiling, analyzing and summarizing the data for Indicator 2--Dropout--from the FY2007 (2007-08 school year) Annual Performance Reports (APRs) and the revised State Performance Plans (SPPs), which were submitted to Office of Special Education…

The National Dropout Prevention Center for Students with Disabilities (NDPC-SD) was assigned the task of compiling, analyzing and summarizing the data for Indicator 1--Graduation--from the 2007- 08 Annual Performance Reports (APRs) and amended State Performance Plans (SPPs), which were submitted by states to the Office of Special Education…

Adolescence is a time for dreaming--for youth to imagine and set a course for the future. High school students naturally spend time imagining the future--if and where to continue their education, to find a job or pursue a career, to move away from home, or to start a family. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) includes a process…

TransQUAL Online is designed to assist school districts collaborate with others and continuously improve their transition practices for youth. TransQUAL incorporates New York State Education Department Transition Quality Indicators (TQI), based on the work of Paula Kolher from Western Michigan University. The TQI assesses program structure,…

This manual is intended to assist families of young children with disabilities in their child's transition from early intervention services to preschool or other educational services at age 3. It provides information about the transition process, federal and state laws that apply to transition, and options for services and program placements. The…