The ultimate goal of CCPS’s Special Education programs is to help children achieve a successful transition from school to post-secondary life. Transition services are designed to meet students’ unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment, and independent living.

Overview of Transition Planning

Transition services for students with disabilities are coordinated activities that:

• Are results-oriented and focused on improving their academic and functional post-secondary achievements

• Based on the individual child’s needs, taking into account their strengths, preferences, and interests

• Include instruction, community experiences, and the development of post-secondary employment and adult living objectives, when appropriate

Post-secondary activities for students with disabilities could be any combination of the following:

• Post-secondary education

• Employment

• Employment training

• Independent living

• Community participation

• Adult services

Transition planning for a student’s future begins in elementary school during career awareness and exploration activities. Then, transition planning is the first step in developing the Individual Education Program (IEP) for students age 14 and older. This process includes:

1. The student shares his/her interests with school staff.

2. The student and school staff establish post-secondary outcomes (employment training, employment, additional education, independent living, etc.) based on age-appropriate transition assessments.

3. School staff backward maps the services, course of study, and annual goals needed to achieve the desired outcomes.

4. This process is repeated annually, allowing for adjustments to the IEP based on the student’s current interests and outcomes.

Transition Planning Guide:  English   |  Spanish  |   Haitian Creole
Maryland Learning Links
MSDE Division of Rehabilitative Services
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration

Flyer in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole

The Maryland Pathways to Partnership Initiative provides services to students with disabilities ages 10-21 in planning for the future. This is a federally funded grant that brings together state and local partners to serve youth and young adults with disabilities and their families.

This is an opportunity for students ages 10-13 to plan for the future, learn about resources available, connect to services, and explore career pathways. Students ages 14-21 may hone skills, gain work experiences and learn the tools for success in the world of work.

For more information, please contact program representatives:

Local: Jason Bruns, Career Navigator | bruns.jason@ccpsstaff.org | 410.479.2332

State: Christy Miller, Project Coordinator | christy.miller1@maryland.gov | 410.554.9330