10 Steps to Writing Effective Transition Goals
A Guide for Teachers
Introduction
Transition planning is a critical component of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) to prepare students with disabilities for life after high school. This guide walks you through 10 steps to craft measurable, meaningful postsecondary goals in education, employment, and independent living.
1. Start with the End in Mind
Identify the student’s long-term goals and dreams through assessments, interviews, and observations.
Example: “What do you see yourself doing after high school?”
2. Use Age-Appropriate Transition Assessments
Conduct assessments to understand the student’s strengths, needs, preferences, and interests.
Examples of Tools:
Career Interest Inventories
Self-Determination Scales
Independent Living Skills Checklists
3. Write Goals That Are Measurable
Ensure every goal includes:
Who: The student
What: Specific action or outcome
Where: Postsecondary environment (e.g., college, workplace, community)
When: After high school
How: Defined steps or supports
4. Align Goals with Current Data
Use the information from assessments to set realistic and attainable goals.
Example:
Assessment Result: Student enjoys building things and excels in hands-on learning.
Goal: “After high school, [Student] will enroll in a community college carpentry program.”
5. Address All Required Goal Areas
Education/Training:
“After high school, [Student] will complete an industry certification program in culinary arts.”Employment:
“After high school, [Student] will work part-time as a cashier at a grocery store.”Independent Living (if applicable):
“After high school, [Student] will live in an apartment with a roommate and manage daily tasks with minimal support.”
6. Break Goals into Manageable Steps through Activities/Services
Use transition activities to create stepping stones toward postsecondary outcomes.
Example Activity to be completed this year:
“By the end of the school year, [Student] will identify three local colleges offering graphic design programs.”
7. Collaborate with the Student and Family
Hold discussions to ensure goals reflect the student’s voice and family’s input.
Tip: Use visual aids or career maps to make the conversation engaging and inclusive.
8. Connect Goals to Courses of Study
Ensure the student’s course schedule supports their goals.
Example:
Goal: Attending nursing school
Courses: Biology, Anatomy, Health Sciences
9. Include Specific Transition Services and Activities
List services and activities the student will need to achieve their goals.
Example:
Job shadowing or internships
Counseling on postsecondary options
Budgeting or transportation training
10. Review and Revise Annually
Transition goals should evolve as the student’s skills and aspirations grow.
Checklist for Annual Review:
Are the goals still relevant?
Do they reflect the most recent assessments?
Are new supports or activities needed?