Know the Rules, Change the Game: Secondary Transition Legislation Essentials

About the Webinar:

This comprehensive session provided charter school educators and administrators with essential knowledge about secondary transition requirements and services for students with disabilities under federal and state law. Lisa Friedman-Chavez, Kimberly Thorne, and Jennifer Treadway from Project 10: Transition Education Network explained the legal mandates under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that require schools to prepare students with IEPs for life after high school through coordinated transition planning beginning no later than age 16 (or earlier if appropriate). The presenters outlined the critical components of effective transition services, including conducting age-appropriate transition assessments, developing measurable postsecondary goals in education/training, employment, and independent living, and providing instruction and experiences that help students develop the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to achieve their goals. They emphasized that transition planning must be student-centered, culturally responsive, and focused on helping each young person envision and work toward a meaningful adult life aligned with their strengths, interests, and preferences.
The session provided practical guidance on implementing compliant and effective transition programs, including strategies for conducting quality transition assessments, facilitating student-led IEP meetings, coordinating with community agencies and adult service providers, documenting transition services in IEPs, and measuring outcomes. Friedman-Chavez, Thorne, and Treadway shared resources available through Project 10, including professional development opportunities, technical assistance, assessment tools, and evidence-based practices for teaching employment readiness, self-determination, independent living skills, and postsecondary education preparation. They addressed common compliance issues identified in monitoring reviews and offered solutions for strengthening transition practices. The presenters highlighted Florida’s commitment to improving post-school outcomes for students with disabilities and the vital role charter schools play in ensuring these students graduate prepared for competitive integrated employment, continuing education, and independent community living. Attendees left with actionable strategies, templates, and connections to ongoing support that would help their schools meet legal requirements while truly transforming the futures of their students with disabilities.