Family members and caregivers have a great deal of knowledge and insight regarding their sons and daughters. They are usually the only one consistent person in the life of a youth or young adult. Family members and caregivers will also still be there after a student graduates from high school and moves on to fulfilling their post-secondary goals. As one parent put it “ we are the transition coordinators for life .”
Therefore it is important for family members and caregivers to have a good understanding of and be actively engaged in the secondary transition process. This page contains information that can assist family members and caregivers in helping to navigate matters concerning post-secondary transition for youth with disabilities.
PEAL Center Transition Tuesday Series
Family Friendly 1 Page guides
The following series of family friendly 1-page documents are designed to provide brief, concise overviews of prioritized topics that address what parents and family members should consider when supporting their youth in preparing for post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. Click on the document titles, below, to access downloadable versions of each of the 1-pagers
-
Entitlement vs Eligibility
School-age students with a disability receiving special education services are ENTITLED to receive services to access a free appropriate public education as outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). However, ELIGIBILITY for services and supports for youth once they exist school is determined thought the requirements of the agency outside the public school system. This family friendly 1-page guide describes the differences between entitlement and eligibility for services.


-
Exploring the Option of a Two or Four Year College
When considering a two or four-year college, it is important for youth to self-advocate for needs and live as independently as possible. This family friendly 1-page guide describes considerations for discussions family members may have with you considering college options.

