Transition is planning that begins with the end in mind.
Along with goals and services, nearly all IEP transition plans have activities for the student to do. The idea is to prepare teens for adulthood. Transition goals must relate to 3 areas:
Training or education—specific vocational or career field, independent living skills training, vocational training program, apprenticeship, on-the-job training, college or university, vocational or technical program, etc.
Employment—paid (competitive, supported, sheltered); unpaid (volunteer, in a training capacity); military, etc.
Independent Living, where appropriate—adult living, daily living, independent living, financial, transportation, etc.
At Bridges Secondary School we start the transition planning with FUTURES meetings. A FUTURES meeting refers to a specialized meeting that focuses on transition planning. FUTURES stands for "Facilitating the Utilization of Technology and Resources for Employment, Education, and Support." These meetings are designed to assist students with visual impairments in developing a comprehensive plan for their transition from high school to post-secondary education, vocational training, employment, and independent living.
During a FUTURES meeting, various professionals, including educators, rehabilitation specialists, vocational counselors, and representatives from community agencies, come together with the student and their families to discuss and create a customized transition plan. The goal is to identify the specific needs, goals, and aspirations of the student and develop strategies and resources to support their successful transition into adulthood.
LEARN MORE about Bridges transition planning
Students graduating from BRIDGES High School have the same diploma options as all other Utah public schools. Students will graduate with either a regular high school diploma or an alternate high school diploma. See the table below for details and differences between the two diplomas. The decision regarding what diploma a student will receive, and how long it will take is made by the IEP team.
LEARN MORE about diploma options for my Blind/Low Vision Student after High School
Person-centered planning is a process used to help families, friends, and others assist students with disabilities in preparing for their future. This process can help students share their interests and dreams and develop a plan to turn them into reality.
LEARN MORE about person centered planning at Bridges
Guardianship of Adult Students with Disabilities in Utah
Journal article that explores the multi-faceted role of transition planning for both youth with visual impairments and their families.