Transition Resources

This site is dedicated to providing information for families regarding secondary transition services for students with IEPs. In Connecticut, secondary transition goals must be added to the IEP for the school year in which the student turns 14. There are three areas of secondary transition: Post- Secondary Education and Training, Employment/Careers, and for some students, Independent Living Skills. Resources and transition services vary depending upon student need. Information below is intended to assist you in navigating services that may be appropriate for your child. Resources listed are not intended to be an exhaustive list and may  be updated as programs and resources become available or change.

Transition Resources for Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Students with intellectual disabilities have a cognitive and adaptive ability scores of 69 or less. Some students with Autism also have an intellectual disability. Students with intellectual disabilities are entitled to services from the school district through the end of the school year during which they turn 22. These students will likely receive a "certificate of completion" as opposed to a regular high school diploma, due to their modified academic curriculum. After grade 12, all services for these students take place outside of their traditional high school environment. After the age of 22, these students are eligible to receive funding from the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services, also known as DDS, to support their need as adults. These students will participate in their regular graduation ceremony at the end of grade 12, but will receive their actual certificate of completion when they exit on June 30th of the school year during which they turn 22. 

Transition Resources for Students with Other Disabilities

Students with other disabilities include students with learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia and other health impairments. Students with Autism may be included here, if they do not have an intellectual disability. These students may graduate at the end of grade 12, with their peers, and go on to college and other programs. For some of these students, the PPT may determine that they need additional school years to meet their transition goals. In most cases, these students are receiving a regular high school diploma. For students who extend their services beyond grade 12, the diploma is awarded upon mastery of their transition goals.  There are a number of different State agencies, including the Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, or BRS, that may provide supports to these students once they exit the school district. 

Transition Manuals and Guidance Documents

CT State Dept of Education Transition Website

Secondary Transition Planning Process

Building a Bridge Transition Manual

Summary of Performance Document

Parents Guide to the Special Education

SPS Annex Life Skills Program- Monthly Newsletter

SMS Transition Activities-2025

Guardianship and Conservatorship

Many students with intellectual disabilities benefit from having their parent or guardian retain guardianship when they turn 18 and/or conservatorship in order to monitor their affairs. The link here can assist you with navigating the legal process for this. This process should begin 6 months prior to a student turning 18 years of age. Upon receipt of legal guardianship, please supply a copy to the school district.