Resource Materials Effective Models for Transition Planning Checklist for Self-Assessment Across the nation, urban, rural and suburban schools are striving to reach higher standards and to improve the academic performance of their students. The Tools for Schools teleconference series has been designed to support schools as new State assessments linked to higher learning standards are phased in. Six components that leading national educational experts and high performing schools have found effective in enhancing student performance are featured in this series. This Checklist for Self Assessment can assist school administrators, teachers and other school personnel, parents, and the greater school community in reviewing their own teaching and learning environment, and stimulate discussion towards developing strategies to raise standards for student achievement, build capacity to reach the standards, assist students in achieving post-school outcomes, and to answer for results and improve them. Responsive Leadership ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ 42 Does every student have an Individualized Education Program that reflects his/her interests, needs and abilities? Is the student’s vision for his/her future clearly communicated to school staff and parents? Are parents involved in their child’s transition planning process? Do we use student data to guide continuous program improvement? Are community members directly involved with program planning, development and implementation of transition programs and services? Are adult service agencies involved in the transition planning process, if appropriate? Are qualified personnel assigned to support effective transition practices? Are sufficient resources allocated to support effective transition practices? Always Frequently Sometimes Never Resource Materials Effective Models for Transition Planning Checklist for Self-Assessment On-going Staff Development ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Always Frequently Sometimes Never Are teachers, students and parents provided information, materials and training about effective transition practices and their role in the implementation of transition programs and services? Do we use community resources that have practical and functional experience to provide on-going staff development? Are opportunities provided on a regular and on-going basis for teachers to share strategies to implement effective transition programs and services? Do stakeholders provide input on staff development and the transition needs of the diverse students in the classroom? Do staff development activities reflect student centered transition planning? Are staff development activities monitored and evaluated to determine their effectiveness in sustaining student development? Are staff development activities on-going and related to the students’ acquisition of skills to be able to live, learn and earn within the community? Are community resources accessed in the provision of staff development activities? 43 Resource Materials Effective Models for Transition Planning Checklist for Self-Assessment Checklist for Self-Assessment Engaging/Relevant Curriculum ♦ Do we promote the active involvement of all of our students in planning and implementing the transition components of their IEP? ♦ Are all of our students continuously challenged to participate in the transition planning process? ♦ Does curriculum provide students with opportunities to make informed choices and become an effective self-advocate? ♦ Are our instructional activities designed to connect student learning to real life experiences? ♦ Are all students provided challenging work experiences that enable them to strive to reach their identified post-school outcomes? ♦ Do we use a variety of learning experiences (i.e., community as well as classroom) to help students strengthen their academic, career, and life skills? ♦ Do we recognize the diversity of students and the different learning styles in our teaching and learning strategies? ♦ Do we use technology as an integral part of teaching and learning for all students in our school? 44 Always Frequently Sometimes Never Resource Materials Effective Models for Transition Planning Checklist for Self-Assessment Checklist for Self-Assessment Flexible Resources Always Frequently Sometimes Never ♦ Do we seek ways to ensure that the maximum amount of time during the school day is devoted to teaching and learning that supports the student’s post-school outcomes? ♦ Do we assign independent projects to students that build upon student needs, preferences and interests and motivate them to learn more about specific topics? ♦ Do we use interest centers or interest groups to make learning accessible and appropriately challenging for all learners? ♦ Do we use flexible grouping of students to adjust to different learning styles and interests of diverse students? ♦ Do we target discretionary grants and funds to expand transition programs and services in the school and community? ♦ Do we provide instruction that is community based? ♦ Do we seek volunteers as tutors and mentors to help all students achieve successful post-school outcomes? ♦ Do we use school/community partnerships to provide supportive assistance to all students? 45 Resource Materials Effective Models for Transition Planning Checklist for Self-Assessment Checklist for Self-Assessment Supportive Involvement of Parents and Community ♦ Do we provide information to students and parents about the transition planning process that respects cultural diversity and is available in a variety of formats? ♦ Do we seek the input and the insights of students and parents about individual student needs, preferences and interests when developing post-school outcomes? ♦ Do we develop transitionfocused activities that parents can use at home to support the student’s school and post-school outcomes? ♦ Do we provide professional development activities for teachers that help them work with parents and students to become more involved in the students’ transition planning process? ♦ Do we make parents feel welcome in school? ♦ Do we develop communitybased activities that are aligned to instruction? ♦ Do we consider parents’ work schedules and family commitments when scheduling planning meetings? ♦ Have we considered ways of involving community members to help meet the transition program and service needs of diverse learners? 46 Always Frequently Sometimes Never Resource Materials Effective Models for Transition Planning Checklist for Self-Assessment Comprehensive/Strategic Planning Always Frequently Sometimes Never ♦ Do we develop school building plans that provide for the diverse learning needs of all our students? ♦ Have we secured input and involvement of all stakeholders in developing our process for transition planning? ♦ Are we using post-school indicator data to improve and revise our instructional program and transition planning process? ♦ Do we use the results of the transition quality indicator self-assessment to guide development of our school improvement and staff development plans? ♦ Do our plans set clear priorities and high expectations for student outcomes for all students and devote resources to meet those priorities? ♦ Do our plans include professional development activities to ensure that teachers can address the transition needs of a diverse student population? ♦ Are our plans aligned with State learning standards? ♦ Do we clearly articulate and communicate district expectations for transition programs and services? ♦ Do we have procedures and strategies in place to develop and maintain interagency agreements? 47 Resource Materials Excerpts from Part 200 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education, Subchapter P Pursuant to Sections 207, 3214, 4403, 4404, and 4410 of the Education Law. (Includes amended language through January 2002). Section 200.1 Definitions. As used in this Part: (fff)Transition Services means a coordinated set of activities for a student with a disability, designed within an outcome-oriented process, that promotes movement from school to post-school activities, including, but not limited to, post-secondary education, vocational training, integrated competitive employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation. The coordinated set of activities must be based on the individual student's needs, taking into account the student's preferences and interests, and shall include needed activities in the following areas: (1) instruction; (2) related services; (3) community experiences; (4) the development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives; and (5) if appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation. 200.4 Procedures for referral, evaluation, individualized education program (IEP) development, placement and review. (d) Recommendation. (2) If the student has been determined to be eligible for special education services…. the recommendation shall: (i) report the present levels of performance … including: (c) for students age 15 (and at a younger age, if determined appropriate), a statement of the student's needs, taking into account the student's preferences and interests, as they relate to transition from school to post-school activities as defined in section 200.1(fff). (viii) provide for those students age 14 and updated annually, a statement of the transition service needs of the student under applicable components of the student's IEP that focuses on the student's courses of study, such as participation in advanced-placement courses or a vocational education program; (ix) provide, for those students age 15 (and at a younger age, if determined appropriate) a statement of the student's projected post-school outcomes, based on the student's needs, preferences, and interests, in the areas of employment, post secondary education, and community living and a statement of the needed transition services as defined in section 200.1(fff) of this Part including a statement of the responsibilities of the school district and, when applicable, participating agencies for the provision of such services and activities that promote movement from school to post school opportunities, or both, before the student leaves the school setting. Needed activities shall be provided in each area specified in section 200.1(fff)(1) through (4) and, as appropriate, (5) of this Part; (4) Such recommendations shall (i) be developed in meetings of the committee on special education…. (c) If the purpose of the meeting is to consider the need for transition services, the school district shall invite the student and a representative of the agencies likely to be responsible for providing or paying for transition services. If the student does not attend, the district shall take steps to ensure that the student's preferences and interests are considered. If an agency invited to send a representative to a meeting does not do so, the district shall take steps to involve the other agency in the planning of any transition services. 48 Resource Materials Excerpts from Article 89 of the State Education Law Section 4401.2 Definition of Special Services or Programs. For purposes of this article, special services or programs shall mean the following: a. Special classes, transitional support services, resource rooms, direct and indirect consultant teacher services, transition services as defined in subdivision nine of this section, assistive technology devices as defined under federal law, travel training, home instruction, and special teachers to include itinerant teachers as provided by the schools of the district of residence with such terms and services to be defined by regulations of the commissioner. b. Contracts with other districts for special services or programs. c. Contracts with or special services or programs provided by boards of cooperative educational services. ….. k. Related services which shall in appropriate cases be furnished to students with disabilities shall include audiology, counseling including rehabilitation counseling services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech pathology, medical services as defined by regulations of the commissioner, psychological services, school health services, school social work, assistive technology services as defined under federal law, orientation and mobility services, parent counseling and training and other appropriate developmental, corrective or other support services and appropriate access to recreation. ….. n. Formalized agreements for the provision of transition services as defined in subdivision nine of this section in programs such as vocational training programs approved by the department or by another state agency. Nothing in this article shall be construed to relieve another agency of responsibility to provide or pay for any transition service that the agency would otherwise provide to students with disabilities who meet the eligibility criteria of that agency. Section 4401.9 Definition of Transition Services. Transition services shall mean a coordinated set of activities for a student with a disability, designed within an outcome-oriented process, which promotes movement from school to post-school activities, including post-secondary education, vocational training, integrated competitive employment (including supported employment), continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living, or community participation. The coordinated set of activities shall be based upon the individual student's needs, taking into account the student's preferences and interests, and shall include instruction, related services, community experiences, the development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives, and, if appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation. Section 4402.2.a. Duties of school districts. The board of education or trustees of each school district shall be required to furnish suitable educational opportunities for children with handicapping conditions by one of the special services or programs listed in subdivision two of section forty-four hundred one. The need of the individual child shall determine which of such services shall be rendered. Each district shall provide to the maximum extent appropriate such services in a manner which enables children with handicapping conditions to participate in regular education services when appropriate. 49 Resource Materials Guiding Principles How Do You Know When You’re Doing Good Transition? STUDENT DEVELOPMENT ♦ When students leaving school have had real employment experiences that have assisted them with college, community living and job placement options and connections. STUDENT INVOLVEMENT ♦ When planning (IEP) and programming (classes and programs) have been based on individual needs, and practically tied to careers and real life skills. STUDENT DEVELOPMENT AND INVOLVEMENT ♦ When the IEP is a practical document that can be used on a daily basis to give guidance and direction to program staff. It is driven by individual needs, yet is led by post-school outcomes hence giving staff goals, objectives and specific direction. STUDENT AND FAMILY INVOLVEMENT ♦ When the student and his/her family are truly involved in the IEP’s development. When training has been provided on how to become involved. INTERAGENCY AND INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION ♦ When the IEP reflects involvement and connections with general and career and technical education programs as well as post-school supports and programs (e.g., VESID, college support services, adult service agencies, etc). DISTRICT PROGRAM STRUCTURE ♦ When your school’s mission, values, and actions support programmatic and resource adaptations that enhance successful transition planning on an individual-need basis. Also when transition planning is aligned with other student-based planning activities, such as career planning and annual guidance plans. ____________________________________________________________________ These core indicators of good transition practices are reflective of the 76 individual items from the TQI. (Transition Quality Indicators Self-assessment) Information Submitted by: Eric Bright and Kim Massaro North Country Transition Coordination Site 50 Resource Materials Frequently Asked Questions About Transition Does everyone need a transition plan? In New York State, there is not a separate document called a "transition plan." In New York State, transition components are built into the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) for special education, annual guidance plan for general education and/or Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) for vocational rehabilitation. All youth with disabilities, aged 14-21, must have transition components in their IEPs. There are no exceptions because of specific disability or special education placement. The IEPs of classified special education students must contain transition components whatever their placement, e.g., attending classes in home districts or Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES), integrated or separate programs, residential settings in or out of state, in correctional programs, in State-Supported or Operated schools, in private schools, in Office of Mental Health (OMH) or Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities (OMRDD) facilities, or in other placements. What should be on a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) regarding transition? Beginning at age 14 and annually thereafter, the Committee on Special Education (CSE) must begin transition planning with the student and family to determine what programs and services the student will need to prepare him/her for living, learning and working in the community as an adult. At age 14 the IEP should begin to identify the transition needs of the student in the present levels of performance, especially in the areas of academic needs. There should be a statement on the IEP that addresses the student’s course of study or instructional program, including advanced placement courses and career and technical education courses. This might include an advanced course in science, mathematics or career and technical education. It could include heating and air conditioning, keyboarding, art, drama or teaching a student to use public transportation to get to a job site. Whatever course selected would be based on the student’s needs, preferences and interests and what the school will do to begin to prepare that student to make the transition to adult life by providing experiences, instruction and skills in a chosen area of study. For students age 15 through 21 (and younger if the CSE determines it is appropriate), transition programs and services continue to be based upon the student’s needs, preferences and interests. In addition to course of study, beginning at age 15 and annually thereafter, the IEP must include post-school outcomes, a statement of needed transition services, and transition services provided by agencies other than the school. Needs and abilities that describe how a student currently functions and are specific to transition such as self-advocacy, mobility, organization and time management should be addressed in the present levels of performance. Post-school outcomes, stated in the student’s own words, should specify what the student’s plans are for employment, post-secondary education and community living after high school. Specific coordinated activities that will incrementally provide experiences, instruction and skills that the student needs to make the transition to living, learning and working in the community as an adult must be indicated on the IEP. These areas (Continued) 51 Resource Materials include instruction, related services, the development of employment and other post-school living objectives, community experiences, and, if appropriate, the acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation. Therefore, beginning at age 15, there is a greater emphasis on the coordination of activities and the involvement of other agencies in the transition planning process. Who is responsible for transition? The school district Committee on Special Education (CSE) has the legal responsibility to coordinate transition planning and provide transition services through the Individualized Education Program (IEP). However, schools also must have the active participation of students, families and community agencies in order to make the transition process effective and meaningful for individual students. When transition is the topic of discussion at the IEP meeting, the student and parents must be invited to participate. The CSE members at the meeting must include the parent, the child's special education teacher, at least one regular education teacher (if the student is or will be participating in regular education), a school district representative who is qualified to supervise the provision of special education services, an individual who can interpret instructional implications of evaluation results, and at the parent's or school's discretion, other individuals with special knowledge or expertise, including related services personnel if appropriate. Participating agencies who can contribute information about services or who will be asked to provide specific services should also participate. To help manage the process, some school district Committees on Special Education may use subcommittees, such as in New York City, which has a School Based Support Team (SBST). Some districts have assigned specific staff to coordinate the services on a daily basis, such as the guidance counselor, transition teacher or transition linkage coordinator. Some schools use related services personnel such as social workers or rehabilitation counselors to work individually with students and families to coordinate their participation in the transition planning and service process. In regard to who has the final decision about what is actually written about transition on the IEP, all members of the CSE make the decisions. The student, family, and school personnel are expected to decide together what the transition services content will be. The success of the IEP depends on all parties working cooperatively to develop and implement the programs, services, and activities in the IEP. Incorporating student preference and interest are critical for the student and family to "buy in" to the process. Can school districts plan transition services without the input of the student and parents? No. Federal and State law regarding transition services require that students and families participate actively in planning. Legislative intent is that transition planning provides the opportunity for the student and parent to have ownership roles in setting the direction of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and providing a clear direction for the student's educational program. The post-school outcome statements on the IEP are designed to be future oriented and to express the student's future aspirations. A strategy to help students express these is to have a discussion about transition before the Committee on Special Education (CSE) meeting. This allows all parties to come to annual review knowing what the post-school direction of the educational process is. 52 (Continued) Resource Materials How do schools arrange for students to have community learning experiences, especially work study and job coach programs, in the years prior to vocational rehabilitation involvement? Options available for all students have particular value for providing transition services for students with disabilities. Field trips, job shadowing, community volunteer experiences, and club participation are options being used. Curriculum may be modified to give credit for an English or Social Studies assignment for which students participate in a community experience and write an essay or make a presentation for a grade. Schools should look at resources that are used to fund work experience programs for youth without disabilities and take steps to include transition students. Also, since the definition for special education programs and services includes services in settings other than classrooms, community learning can be funded as a special education service. (see Chapter 699, 4401(2)(a)). This means that community learning experiences, including vocational experiences, can count as special education services and can be funded. When schools do not have community work experience programs, they may enter into formal agreements directly with approved rehabilitation providers to obtain transition services, which are fundable as special education services. (see Chapter 699, 4401(2)(n)). If appropriate, such costs would be covered under excess cost aid. The School Business Officer should be actively consulted to discuss how the funding mechanisms work to meet student transition needs identified in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) annual review. Regarding liability for insurance coverage for students in job shadowing or other work experiences, the primary responsibility is associated with whether the student is receiving wages. If the student is not receiving a salary, it is the school district's insurance that covers the student, as would be true for any field trip. Child Labor Laws limit where youth of certain ages can work to assure that they are not exposed to dangerous settings, tools or materials. If a student is injured in a volunteer work setting, however, then the employer shares in responsibility for any injury caused by a dangerous condition. If the student receives wages for work activities, the employer's insurance covers the student, because the student is an employee. If a student has a community-based work experience before she is 18 will this interfere with Supplemental Security Income (SSI)? Not if appropriate planning is done. The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program has developed procedures to encourage students to develop employment skills, including those obtained through paid work experiences. A work experience that is deemed an educational experience rather than a "real job" does not necessarily count as "work." In addition, a planning process called a Plan to Achieve Self-Support can be used to exclude earnings to save for something needed in the post-school future, such as a motor vehicle, funds for college or vocational training. There are trained personnel at many community agencies, including Independent Living Centers and supported employment programs that can provide benefits information. (Continued) 53 Resource Materials How can you make transition the focus of the student's education program in light of the higher standards? Both learning standards and transition requirements must be addressed in the student's educational program. The key is to design the curriculum so that lessons serve multiple purposes. The higher learning standards actually incorporate fundamental skills needed for effective transitions, such as reading, math, writing, problem solving, working as a team member, and so on. For example, handling money is an applied math skill. The Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) learning standards provide examples of skills that are transition related that can be addressed in the core curricula. In addition to seat time and instruction, the educational program must be sure to incorporate community-based learning experiences. Within the curriculum, there are options to achieve instructional objectives, including existing courses, field trips and independent study or extra credit assignments. Use the total environment, including clubs and school activities to advantage. Encourage students to use free time to explore some experiences, just as juniors and seniors are given leave to visit colleges. There are many creative ways to meet graduation requirements. All students must meet course and assessment requirements to receive a high school diploma. What extent are school districts required to meet a student's need for transition if a particular service is not available in the county? The Committee on Special Education (CSE) is required during the annual Individualized Education Program (IEP) review to assess the student's needs for transition services beginning at age 15. If the need is identified, transition services must be provided. Lack of availability is not a reason to deny services, since transition services are required to be individualized. Adult service agencies are available for consulting with the Committee on Special Education (CSE) as appropriate and for helping districts design new services. Adult service agencies have extensive experience with adults who have made successful or unsuccessful transitions in the past. Adult agencies will provide individualized services directly to consumers who are found eligible for the specific service. Can students who receive an IEP diploma attend postsecondary education? Yes, there are a wide variety of postsecondary education programs, including Adult and Continuing Education as well as two- and four-year degree granting colleges. Students will need to demonstrate that they meet the admission qualifications. Alternatives to a local or Regents diploma may include taking a standardized placement test at the postsecondary program and achieving a specified score. Students may also obtain a GED diploma, then apply for postsecondary study. With a local or Regents high school diploma, a GED diploma or a satisfactory score on an approved standardized test demonstrating the ability to benefit, postsecondary students also can become eligible for Federal financial aid such as a Pell grant or a student loan to fund the program. To determine how to proceed, contact the Admissions office of the postsecondary program or the Office of Disabled Student Services at the college or university you are interested in attending. (Continued) 54 Resource Materials Can students be provided with a 12-month program to fit transition services with the extra work required to address learning standards? For students with disabilities in the transition phase of their program, aged 14 through 21, summer transition services may be provided to prevent substantial regression. Transition activities may include instruction, community experiences, related services, preparation for employment or other post-school adult living objectives, and when appropriate, the preparation of adult daily living skills or a functional vocational evaluation. Transition activities can meet the dual purposes of maintaining mastery of developmental levels while also being experiential opportunities to learn skills needed for successful transition. Students who do not require 12-month special education programs to prevent regression may be able to benefit from extra time/extra help programs and services designed to help all students master the learning standards. Keep in mind that the Career Development and Occupational Studies (CDOS) learning standard is also a means of acquiring career skills for all students. 55 Resource Materials Transition Planning Timeline From an individual student perspective, the following is a series of events that may need to be considered during the student’s transition process. All items will not be applicable to all students. The list is provided to serve as an optional planning tool. Action ♦ Administer initial vocational assessment. ♦ Complete periodic vocational assessments. Suggested Age Range 12 12-21 ♦ Develop a career plan. 12-21 (any age) ♦ Participate in strength based person centered 12-21 (any age) planning. ♦ Develop skills in self-determination and 12-21 self-advocacy. ♦ Notify parents that transition services will be 13 (or younger as appropriate) ♦ Introduce and discuss transition services. 14 (or younger as appropriate) incorporated into the IEP beginning at age 14. ♦ Assure that copies of work-related documents are 14-17 ♦ Obtain parental consent so that the appropriate 14-21 available: • Social security card • Birth certificate • Obtain working papers (if appropriate) • Obtain personal ID card adult agency representatives can be involved. ♦ Develop post-school outcomes with the 14+ ♦ Develop transition component of IEP and 14+ student. annually thereafter review and update. ♦ Explore community leisure activities. 56 12-21 (Continued) Resource Materials Action Suggested Age Range ♦ Consider employment/volunteer experience. 15-20 ♦ Consider the need for residential opportunities, 14-21 ♦ Visit supportive community agencies and 14-21 ♦ Develop Transportation/Mobility Strategies such 16-21 including completing applications, as appropriate. organizations. as: • • • • independent travel skills training public or paratransit transportation needs for travel attendant obtaining a driver’s license ♦ Consider guardianship or age of majority issues. 16-18 ♦ Involve VESID/CBVH, as appropriate, within two 16-21 ♦ Investigate post-school opportunities (further 16-18 ♦ Apply for post-school college and other 17-21 ♦ Investigate SSDI/SSI/Medicaid programs. 12-18 years of school exit. educational, vocational training, college, military, etc.). educational training programs. ♦ Re-apply for SSI, as appropriate. 18 ♦ Investigate work incentives. 18 ♦ Review health insurance coverage; inform 18 ♦ Male students register for the draft (no 18 ♦ Register to vote. 18 insurance company of son/daughter disability; and investigate rider of continued eligibility. exceptions). 57 Resource Materials Indicators of Quality Transition Program and Services Transition Quality Indicators (TQI) The following Transition Quality Indicators (TQI) checklist was inspired by the Taxonomy of Transition Programming developed through research by Dr. Paula Kohler, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It was developed for use by New York State school districts in evaluating the quality of their transition planning and service process. See www.transqual.org to down load this form. Directions: On the scale of 1-5 and for each category and subcategory, assess each item and write the number in the designated column. After rating each item on the complete list, go back and insert a checkmark next to each item where change is desired. 1 = Never done, 2 = Planning to do this, 3 = Done on a small scale with targeted group of students, 4 = Done on a large scale with most students, 5 = Exemplary. Transition Quality Indicators Self-assessment Rating (1-5) Check if change is desired I. DISTRICT PROGRAM STRUCTURE 1A. Program Philosophy i) Integrated placements are made in academic, vocational and work experience programs. Access to all program options is the same as for nondisabled peers. ii) Infusion of transition outcomes and services occurs in all curricular areas. iii) Cultural and ethnic sensitivity is evident. iv) Flexible programming meets individual student needs. 1B. Program Policy i) There is administrative and community support for transition planning and services. ii) Mission and values are clearly articulated. iii) Program structure, process and services are clearly articulated (e.g., Transition Services: A Planning and Implementation Guide pp. 15-18, the before, during and after checklist). iv) Transition-related planning and services are integrated within educational restructuring. 1C. Strategic Planning i) Internal and external strategies are articulated. ii) There is active participation with district and key community planning groups. 1D. Program Evaluation i) Evaluation and data are used to guide continuous program improvement. ii) Data includes student results. 1E. Human Resource Development i) Resource materials about transition practice are available to personnel. ii) Qualified personnel are allocated for transition programs. 58 (Continued) Resource Materials iii) Technical assistance is available to staff on transition issues. iv) Personnel competencies are established for those providing transition programs and services. 1F. Resource Allocation i) Resources are sufficiently allocated to accomplish what is recommended. ii) There is use of multiple funding sources (such as School-to-Work Opportunity Act, JTPA and VATEA). iii) Funding is used creatively. 2. INTERAGENCY AND INTERDISCIPLINARY COLLABORATION 2A. Inter-Organizational Framework i) Local agency roles regarding transition services are clearly stated. ii) Processes are established for sharing student information. (Use local or statewide interagency agreements, the VESID/CBVH referral process and the confidentiality release process.) 2B. Human Resource Development i) Multidisciplinary staff development activities occur. ii) Employers are involved in staff development. iii) Staff development addresses student and parent empowerment (a.k.a. self-determination, self-advocacy skills). 2C. Organization-Level Planning i) There is a process to project upcoming student service/program needs. ii) There is ongoing community planning. iii) There is staff and family access to a community service directory, or one is developed. 2D. Individual-Level Planning i) There is active participation of agencies with students, families and schools. ii) Participating agency contacts are made and referrals completed before student exits school. 2E. Collaborative Service Delivery i) There is evidence of collaborative funding of services. ii) Service delivery is coordinated across school-agency systems, resulting in reduction of barriers. iii) New services are developed collaboratively between schools and community. 3. FAMILY INVOLVEMENT 3A. Family Involvement i) At a general level, families contribute input to development of staff training. ii) In student-specific planning, families take an active role in planning transition programs and services and are responsible (Continued) 59 Resource Materials 3B. Family Empowerment i) Families are provided with a directory of available services. ii) There are pre-IEP planning activities so families know what to expect during meetings. iii) Families are encouraged to make informed choices, by being presented with options and implications. 3C. Family Training i) Families receive training regarding effective advocacy techniques. ii) Families receive training regarding the transition-related planning process. iii) Families receive training about community services and agencies. 4. STUDENT INVOLVEMENT 4A. Student Participation i) Students are prepared through curricular activities to participate in transition planning. ii) Self-determination (choice-making) is facilitated within the planning process. iii) Students are invited to participate in the transition planning process. iv) Transition planning decisions are driven by the student and family. v) Career counseling services are provided to each student. 4B. IEP Development i) Participating agencies are invited to participate in meetings in which transition is discussed. ii) Parents/legal guardians are invited to participate in meetings in which transition is discussed. iii) Beginning at age 14, transition-related post-school outcome statements, goals and objectives are specified in the IEP. iv) Educational experiences correspond to long-term adult outcomes. v) Post-school adult outcomes, goals and objectives are based on student choices. vi) Progress is reviewed annually, and services are adjusted to enable further progress being made. vii) The coordinated set of activities by age 14 address instruction and by age 15 includes instruction, related services, community experiences and preparation for employment and other postschool adult outcomes. viii) Suitable explanations are given when required activities are not provided. ix) Participating agencies' responsibilities are stated in the IEP. x) Content of the IEP corresponds with content of IPE. 60 (Continued) Resource Materials 4C. Accommodations & Planning Strategies i) Planning is based on assessment information, including vocational assessment. ii) The transition planning process begins no later than age 14. iii) Meeting time is adequate to conduct planning. iv) A multiethnic and multicultural perspective is evident. v) There are functional evaluations of academic, social, cognitive, physical, vocational and other abilities. 5. STUDENT DEVELOPMENT 5A. Academic Skills Instruction i) Learning strategies and skills training are provided. ii) Postsecondary educational planning and skills development occurs. iii) Career and life skills curricula are infused throughout academic subject areas. 5B. Life Skills Instruction i) Independent living skills training is community-based. ii) Self-determination skills training includes goal setting and decision-making and is integrated into the curriculum. iii) Social and leisure skills training is included in life skills 5C. Employment Skills Instruction i) Training is provided in such employability areas as job seeking skills training, SCANS and other current benchmarks. ii) Instruction is community-based. 5D. Career & Vocational Curricula i) Students participate in general vocational education classes and programs (guidance services and workforce preparation activities). ii) Learning activities are community-referenced. 5E. Vocational Assessment i) Vocational assessment begins at age 12. ii) There is continuous assessment of skills in relation to employment options and job requirements. iii) Vocational assessment, experience portfolios and career plans are informative about student skills. iv) Situational assessment is used. 5F. Structured Employment Experiences i) Multiple, varied community work experiences (unpaid and paid, apprenticeships and shadowing) are provided. ii) Job placement occurs prior to school exit. 61 Resource Materials Fact Sheet for Parents Summarizing NYS Transition Requirements What are transition services? Transition services are activities that prepare students with disabilities to move from school to post-school life. The activities must be based on the student's needs, preferences and interests, and shall include needed activities in the following areas: (1) instruction; (2) related services; (3) community experiences; (4) the development of employment and other post-school adult living objectives; and (5) when appropriate, acquisition of daily living skills and functional vocational evaluation. What are schools required to do about providing transition services? For special education students, the Committee on Special Education (CSE) is required to address a student's need for transition services in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) beginning at age 14. When transition will be discussed and decisions made about transition services, the CSE is responsible to invite the student, his or her parents, and representatives of participating agencies that are likely to be responsible for helping to provide some of the transition services. If a student does not attend the meeting, the CSE must take other steps to be sure the student's preferences and interests are considered in planning for the transition services. A student's need for transition services is reviewed and revised, as appropriate, every year based on the student's transition service needs identified on the IEP. What parts of my child's IEP tell us about transition services? ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Present Levels of Performance indicate your child's current transition service needs. Post-School Outcomes record your child's hopes for the future, as an adult. Goals/Objectives/Benchmarks tell what transition skills will be developed this year and how this will be done. Related Services tell what related services will help the student to meet transition goals. Participating Agencies tell what community agencies will also provide transition activities. Coordinated Set of Activities lists the transition activities your child will receive this year. *Part 200 of the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education contains transition requirements in the following sections: 8 NYCRR 200.1 (jj) Definition of Participating Agency 8 NYCRR 200.1 (fff) Definition of Transition services 8 NYCRR 200.4 (d)(2)(i)(viii) and (ix) IEP Content re: Transition 8 NYCRR 200.4 (d)(4)(i)(c) Participants at CSE Meetings to Discuss Transition 8 NYCRR 200.4 (e)(6) Responsibility When Participating Agency Does Not Provide Services 8 NYCRR 200.5 (c)(2)((vii) Notice of Transition Meetings Developed by Doris Jamison-NYS VESID 62 Resource Materials Strength Based Assessment Overview The Strength Based Assessment (SBA) process has the following qualities: ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ The student is the center of the discussion (student centered process) It is a structured discussion focused on finding out about the student’s hopes/ dreams for their future, their strengths/talents/abilities and identifying what strategies and approaches help them to succeed. It can be used to generate individualized Post-School Outcome Statements for the student’s IEP. The student, parent and school staff who know the student well are the participants in the process. For most students, the Strength Based Assessment can be completed in one class period (45 minutes). Guidelines for Conducting Strength Based Assessments Be non-judgmental. The primary goal of this activity is to open up lines of quality communication. It is not necessary or useful to respond to everything or to make a judgment about responses. Own words. Take notes in the person’s own words and phrasing. Dreams/Fears Don’t worry if the statements here appear unrealistic to you. Let the student and parents discuss their ideas. The answers to the abilities and supports questions will expose the correlation between dreams and abilities. Multi-Path Planning For all dreams, at some point (if it won’t disrupt quality communication) a “what if” question should be asked; e.g., “What if that dream doesn’t pan out for you?” or, a more positive phrasing, “Have you given thought about any other things you might like to do or try?” (Continued) 63 Resource Materials All of Life Oftentimes, responses from the parent and student focus on school and work. Remember to include all areas of life. Dreams: Where do you want to live? (Community Living) Do you want to get married? Raise a family? (Community Living) What do you want to do for relaxation? (Community Living) What do you want to learn more about? (Further Education) Abilities: What do you do well outside of school? What do you do in your free time? What do you around your home? What do you want to learn more about? Be non-judgmental. Abilities: Remember to ask the student what he/she likes to do and what he/she does well. What we are good at may not be what we want to do. Strength Based/Positive Communication: The goal is to build a communication process that focuses on the student’s strength, interests and abilities. This information is the basis of planning for community interaction and the transition services in the IEP. Also, the tone of the communications is to remain positive. This is more difficult than people think. There is a strong desire to remind the student of all the things that have been done wrong. This is not the purpose. The “Needs” section deals with a student’s shortcomings by planning positive strategies. Write the Outcome Statements for the IEP with the Student and Family With the student and parents present, this is the perfect opportunity to write the Post-School Outcome Statements that need to be in the IEP. Using the information from the Strength Based Assessment, develop statements for each area of Post-School Outcomes: Employment, Further Education and Community Living 64 Resource Materials Strength Based Planning Worksheet Student: _______________________ Projected Graduation Date: ____________ Interview Date: ____________ STUDENT Dreams: What are your hopes and dreams for the future? PARENT Employment/Career: Further Education: Community Living: What If question: Fears: What will stand in the way of what you want? PARENT Abilities: What are your strengths, gifts, talents, skills, likes and dislikes? PARENT Hobbies: Best Subject: Favorite Subject: What do you like to do when you have free time? SCHOOL What do you really dislike? Needs: What helps you be successful? What helps you do a good job? PARENT SCHOOL (Continued) 65 Resource Materials Strength Based Planning Worksheet (Page 2) Other topics/ideas discussed: Indicate what is to done, who will do it and when. (e.g., Start VESID referral: Teacher gets form to parents by 5/1. Parents return completed application to school by 5/10.) Post-School Outcome Statements: The outcome statements use the student’s and parent’s own words from the interview and is based upon the student’s expressions of their hopes and dreams for the future. The abilities section is also a source for information. To compose these statements use wording like “hopes to”, “plans to”, “is working towards”. These are for the Transition Services section of the student’s IEP. Employment: Post-School Education/Training: Community Living: _____________________________________________________________ Extra questions to help obtain information for all the required Post-School Outcome Statements when talking to students about their hopes and dreams. Employment: This is usually what students talk about when we ask them about their hopes and dreams. Always ask “Why?”. The reason the student provides may open up other areas of interest. Also, answers that seem unrealistic may in fact be realistic after the student explains why. Always ask the “What if” question. “What other careers do you think you might want to do?” It is fine to list both answers in the outcome statement. e.g., Tanya hopes to someday be a medical doctor. She has also expressed the possibility of pursuing a career working with children. It is also okay to indicate the parents and students dreams if they are different: Todd hopes to join the armed forces upon graduation, preferably the Marines. Todd’s parents hope that he will attend the community college and be able to get a good paying job with a future. Postsecondary Education (Lifelong learning): Since the students are young the question that may be most effective is “What do you want to learn more about?” This allows the student to talk about college or areas of interest. A follow up question may be “Where do you expect to learn about [the topic that is mentioned]?” For example: ♦ Sean hopes to learn more about how music is made. His parents hope Sean can continue to receive schooling after he graduates to improve his career options. ♦ Alyssa hopes to attend college to pursue her career goals. Community Living: If the student has trouble responding to this question, ask more focused questions. For example, “Where do you plan on living?” Some of the ways this could be answered geographically (Florida), domicile type (in a nice house), or socially (with friends). “What do you want to do with your spare time when you are not working or going to school? ”e.g., the pursuit of hobbies, sports interests: anything that the individual finds personally fulfilling. 66 Resource Materials Examples of TransitionRelated Evaluation Findings Sample Student-Jean ♦ The Transition Planning Inventory prepared by Jean and her parents indicates she plans to live at home and commute to college but will need help figuring out how to commute. ♦ Academic achievement testing and class grades indicate she is performing at a low average level in all courses, with resource room support to digest written assignments and stay organized. ♦ Observations from classroom teachers indicate she has difficulties absorbing printed information on the first reading, summarizing and restating the main concepts in printed information, and independently organizing and completing assignments on time. She is beginning to have problems working in groups, tending to wait for others to tell her what to do. Classmates often work around her instead. ♦ Her Career Plan this year indicates successful participation in a service learning project at the Children’s Hospital, where she worked one-to-one with very ill children. She helped them eat their meals, transported them to therapies and played games with them. The supervisor reported she was well-liked by the children and maintained an interested, positive attitude that was uplifting to the children and their families. As a result, Jean has identified the career goal of becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse. 67 Resource Materials Examples of PLP Statements Related to Transition Sample Student: Jean 1. Academic/Educational Achievement and Learning Characteristics: Present Levels: Jean is taking tenth grade general education courses and passing at a low average level. Her service learning experience in the hospital indicates that on a 1:1 basis, she has strengths in helping ill children in a hospital setting. Abilities: She is able to perform at grade level if she has resource room support to absorb, summarize key concepts and apply information from printed material and stay organized to complete assignments completely and on time. Needs: Small instructional groups, low stimulation environments. Post-School Transition Needs: Jean needs to work on organizing and prioritizing multiple tasks within time periods. 2. Social Development: Present Levels: Jean gets along well with teachers and peers in one-to-one social interactions. Abilities: Her service learning experience demonstrated that she has empathy for ill children and their families in medical treatment. Needs: Jean needs to develop skills for working on a team. Post-School Transition Needs: She needs to develop skills for working as a member of a team of peers to solve problems or make recommendations. 3. Physical Development: Present Levels: Jean’s skills are comparable to her peers. Abilities: Jean is capable of meeting the physical demands necessary to become a nurse. Needs: Jean has no identified needs in this area. Post School Transition Needs: Jean has no identified needs in this area. 68 Resource Materials Examples of Post-School Outcomes * Sample Student: Jean ♦ Postsecondary Education/Training: Jean hopes to attend community college to study practical nursing and obtain her license to practice. ♦ Employment: Jean wishes to become a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). ♦ Community Living: Until she completes college and begins working successfully, Jean plans to continue living at home. She hopes to learn to drive a car. *Previously referred to as Long-Term Adult Outcome Statements. 69 Resource Materials Examples of Annual Goal and Benchmarks Sample Student: Jean Annual Goal: Jean will complete assignments using a step-by-step problem-solving format with a partner and a group of peers. Short-Term Objectives/ Benchmarks Evaluation Criteria Evaluation Procedures Evaluation Schedule 1. Demonstrate the fivestep problem-solving process and complete biology lab activities sharing work with a partner. 100% 0f the time do steps sequentially. Lab reports are complete and organized in correct order in the notebook. Teacher review of notebook. Teacher observes lab work. End 1st quarter. 2. Take the lead for her team on completing lab reports using the fivestep process with her partner Reports 100% complete and accurate. Teacher review. End 2nd quarter. 3. Complete the process for lab activities with a group of peers. 100% of time steps done sequentially. Lab notebook complete and in correct order. Teacher review of notebook. Teacher observe lab work. End 3rd quarter. 4. Apply the process to an independent project and present findings to fellow lab students. 100% complete, organized and accurate. Able to answer questions clearly. Teacher review. End 4th quarter. 70 9/7/02 9/7/02 Consultant Teacher Resource Room Initiation Date Daily Frequency Frequency 5X/week 3X/week 5X/week Frequency Duration Duration 50 min/session 50 min/session 50 min/session Duration All Classes Location Location General Ed classes (Biology & Math) CTE-Practical Nursing Resource Room Location Individual Testing Modifications: Separate room. Read instructions. Use ruler, calculator (except for tests measuring calculations), and spell-checker. Double time. State why the student will not participate in a State or district-wide assessment: N/A. Explain how the student will be assessed: N/A 1. 2. 3. Individual Testing Accomodation(s) Biology Lab and Practical Nursing instructors will be provided with information regarding specific learning disability and the implications for instruction and assessment. E. Describe the program modifications or supports for school personnel that will be provided on behalf of the student to address the annual goals and to participate in general education curriculum and activities: Computer word processing with spell checker to complete written assignments and essay examinations. Calculator for math. Ruler to assist sight-reading. D. Describe any assistive technology devices or services needed: Copies of Class Notes & Assignments in Writing C. Supplementary Aids & Services and/or Program Modifications or Supports for the Student N/A. *Specify group/class size if appropriate B. Extended School Year Services Yes __ No _X_ Special Education Programs/ Initiation Date Related Services * 9/7/02 Initiation Date Consultant Teacher A. Special Education Programs/Related Services* IV. Special Education Programs & Related Services/Program Modifications - Jean Resource Materials 71 Resource Materials Participation in General Education Sample Student: Jean The IDEA presumes that all students with disabilities will be educated in general education classes. A. Explain the extent, if any, to which the student will not participate with nondisabled students in the regular class and other nonacademic or extracurricular activities. Not applicable. Jean participates fully. B. If the student is exempt from the language other than English requirement, explain why. Not applicable. C. If the student is not participating in the regular physical education program, explain the extent that the student will participate in specially designed or adapted physical education. Not applicable. 72 Resource Materials Participating Agencies Sample Student: Jean (This section applies to students who are 15 and older.) Participating Agencies which have agreed to provide transition services/supports (before the student leaves the secondary school program): Agency Name and Contact: Not applicable. Telephone Number _____ Service:_________________________________________________________ Implementation Date if Different from IEP Implementation Date:___________ Agency Name and Contact: Not applicable. Telephone Number _____ Service:_________________________________________________________ Implementation Date if Different from IEP Implementation Date:___________ Agency Name and Contact: Not applicable. Telephone Number _____ Service:_________________________________________________________ Implementation Date if Different from IEP Implementation Date:___________ 73 Resource Materials Coordinated Set of Activities Leading to Post-School Outcomes Sample Student: Jean Instruction: Consultant teachers and resource room services will help Jean learn organizational and teamwork skills. Her resource room instructor will also help Jean identify her learning support needs and practice negotiating with instructors to obtain them, in anticipation of her becoming a college student. Related Services: Not applicable. Employment/Postsecondary Education: The guidance counselor will help Jean select and visit 3 college programs. The transition coordinator will prepare a referral to vocational rehabilitation for eligibility determination and planning regarding college, driver training and employment. Community Experience: Under her Career Plan, Jean will volunteer 2 Saturdays per month at the community hospital, rotating every 3 months to a new medical service, based on her choices and interests. (If appropriate) Activities of Daily Living: Not applicable. Functional Vocational Assessment: Not applicable. 74 Resource Materials Examples of Transition Related Evaluation Findings Sample Student-Chris ♦ Academically, Chris can read and understand the meaning of simple sentences with no more than 2-3 short sentences in a paragraph. 85% of the time, he can accurately add and subtract two-digit whole numbers up to 50. He does not yet understand money concepts. ♦ The Transition Planning Inventory indicates that he can independently perform all self-care activities. He keeps his room clean and helps with household chores. He does not know how to prepare meals or operate a washer or dryer. After leaving school at the end of next year, he will live with his married sister until a supported apartment becomes available. ♦ His Level 1 Vocational Assessment indicates that his interests are caring for plants and animals, bowling with his Special Olympics league and camping. ♦ Teacher and family observations are that he is well accepted with his general education peers in inclusion classes, but he is shy with new people or in new situations. He gets lost in unfamiliar locations and cannot independently solve new problem situations. ♦ Strength-based planning activities resulted in clarifying that Chris plans to live at home with his sister for the time being. He does not want to go to school any more once he gets his IEP diploma next year. He strongly wants a job caring for animals. 75 Resource Materials Examples of PLP Statements Related to Transition Sample Student: Chris 1. Academic/Educational Achievement and Learning Characteristics: Present Levels: Chris can read and understand the meaning of simple sentences and paragraphs with no more than 2-3 short sentences. He can accurately add and subtract two-digit whole numbers up to 50 almost 85% of the time. Level 1 vocational assessment indicates he has experience and strong interests in caring for plants and animals. Strengths/Abilities: He is able to participate in an inclusive classroom with instructional goals modified to be consistent with practical applications of the knowledge. Needs: He needs to learn to match sequences of numbers as in matching product numbers with shelf markers and price labels according to a price list. He needs basic money recognition and management skills. He needs to learn how to organize groups of objects and carry out tasks in correct order. Post-School Transition Needs: Chris requires a traveling buddy on field trips with the school and to new locations. Chris will need travel training for crossing streets safely and riding public transportation to and from a work experience site. Chris needs vocationally-related instruction to prepare to work in a pet store. 2. Social Development: Present Levels: Chris gets along well with teachers and peers in one-to-one social interactions. He is shy with strangers and in new situations. Strengths/Abilities: Chris converses best with teachers and people he has known for a long time. He responds most easily to questions in classes when asked for facts he has memorized as opposed to drawing conclusions about new information. Needs: He needs to learn to ask for needed help from appropriate strangers (bus driver, policeman, 911 operator, shop owner, neighbor). Post-School Transition Needs: To work in a retail environment, he needs to learn to greet and converse with customers at his work experience placement in the pet store. 3. Physical Development: Present Levels: Chris is as physically fit as peers of the same age. He has difficulty with fine motor skills. He is sometimes unaware of how to lift and carry unfamiliar objects safely. Strengths/Abilities: Chris is able to coordinate his gross motor skills to perform activities such as lifting, carrying and holding when shown how. He is able to bowl and camp with enjoyment. Needs: Chris needs to refine his fine motor skills and lift and carry objects safely. Post-School Transition Needs: Chris needs to learn how to safely and effectively lift, carry and control the animals at the work experience placement at the pet store. 76 Resource Materials Examples of Post-School Outcomes * Sample Student-Chris ♦ Postsecondary Education/Training: Chris would like someone to teach him how to work on a paying job. ♦ Employment: Chris wants to work in a pet care center or store. ♦ Community Living: Chris would very much like to live on his own someday. Until he can obtain a supported apartment, he plans to live with his married sister and her family. *Previously referred to as Long-Term Adult Outcome Statements. 77 Resource Materials Examples of Annual Goal and Benchmarks Sample Student-Chris Annual Goal: Chris will identify different pieces of currency and coins and be able to provide the correct amount of money for taking Short-Term Objectives/ Benchmarks Evaluation Criteria Evaluation Procedures Evaluation Schedule 1. Identify a penny, nickel, dime, quarter and dollar and the relationship between these. (how many pennies in a nickel, etc.) Accurate 85% of the time on math problems using actual coins over a 3 week period. Teacher review. End 1st quarter. 2. Identify a $1, $5, $10, and $20 bill and the relationship between these (how many $1 in $5, etc.) Accurate 85% of the time on math problems using actual currency over a 3 week period. Teacher review. End 2nd quarter. 3. Identify how much money is needed to take the public bus from school to work experience and back again. Accurate 85% of the time. Able to combine bills and coins in at least one combination over a 3 week period. Teacher observation. End 3rd quarter. 4. Independently provide the bus driver with the correct fare to ride the bus to the mall. Accurate 100% of the time over a 3 week period. Travel trainer observation. End 4th quarter. 78 Initiation Date 9/7/02 All Classes-academic Resource Room All Classes-academic Location General Ed classes(English, Basic Math, Social Studies) Physical EducationResource Room CommunitySpeech Lab Location 2. State why the student will not participate in a State or district-wide assessment: N/A Computer word processing with spell checker to complete written assignments and essay examinations. Calculator for math. Daily class, coordinated with colors of wrist bands as changed by family, each day. E. Describe the program modifications or supports for school personnel that will be provided on behalf of the student to address the annual goals and to participate in general education curriculum and activities: F. Individual Testing Accommodation(s) 1. Individual Testing Modifications: Separate room-small group. Instructions read and simplified. Use ruler, calculator (except for tests measuring calculations), and spell-checker. Double time. D. Describe any assistive technology devices or services needed: Until task is completed Duration min/session min/session min/session min/session 50 min/session 5X/week 50 50 50 50 Duration Frequency 9/7/02 3Xweek Consultant Teacher 9/7/02 3Xweek Resource Room 9/7/02 2Xweek Related Services-Travel Training 9/7/02 2X/week Related Services-Speech & Language B. Extended School Year Services Yes __ No _X_ C. Supplementary Aids & Services and/ Initiation Frequency or Program Modifications or Date Supports for the Student Copies of Class Notes & 9/7/02 Daily Assignments in Writing. Reviews with resource room teacher of main points of assignments. Daily Content Modifications to emphasize practical applications of knowledge Study material geared Daily to his reading level. A. Special Education Programs/Related Services* Consultant Teacher IV. Special Education Programs & Related Services/Program Modifications - Chris Resource Materials 79 Resource Materials Participation in General Education Sample Student-Chris The IDEA presumes that all students with disabilities will be educated in general education classes. A. Explain the extent, if any, to which the student will not participate with nondisabled students in the regular class and other nonacademic or extracurricular activities. Chris will fully participate in English, Basic Math and Social Studies. He is not taking Science this year. Instead of Science, he will be participating in a work experience. B. If the student is exempt from the language other than English requirement, explain why. Individual evaluation indicates Chris is unable to master a language other than English. He receives speech and language services to develop his conversational skills. C. If the student is not participating in the regular physical education program, explain the extent that the student will participate in specially designed or adapted physical education. Chris participates in the regular physical education program, except in the third quarter when he participates in the specially-designed horseback riding program instead of taking gymnastics. 80 Resource Materials Participating Agencies Sample Student: Chris (This section applies to students who are 15 and older.) Participating Agencies which have agreed to provide transition services/supports (before the student leaves the secondary school program): Agency Name and Contact: NYS OMRDD Telephone Number: 555-5555 Service: Assistance with planning for residential placement and Medicaid waiver for housing services. Implementation Date if Different from IEP Implementation Date: Sept. 1 Agency Name and Contact: NYS VESID (Steve Smith) Telephone Number: 555-6666 Service: Job placement and half-time Job Coaching Services during Spring semester (3 hours daily) Implementation Date if Different from IEP Implementation Date: Feb. 1, 2001 Agency Name and Contact: NYS ARC (Maria Dos Passos) Telephone Number: 555-7777 Service: Occupational Therapy to learn home skills funded by OMRDD. Supported Employment funded by VESID Implementation Date if Different from IEP Implementation Date: OT in fall; Supported Employment begins February, 1 81 Resource Materials Coordinated Set of Activities Leading to Post-School Outcomes Sample Student: Chris Instruction: Instruction is modified in academic courses to emphasize practical learning. Resource Room services will assist him with coin/ currency recognition, money management and identifying major concepts in assignments. Related Services: Speech and language services will help Chris communicate with customers and key adults who can help him (911 operator, police, bus driver, work supervisor). Travel training will help him take bus back and forth to work and find his way in the mall. Employment/Postsecondary Education: Work experience 1 day per week in fall to learn about the pet center and safe ways to handle animals. Job coaching five days per week in spring at the pet center provided though VESID and the ARC. Community Experience: Chris will practice riding the bus and finding his way in the mall where the pet center is located. (If Appropriate) Activities of Daily Living: The ARC occupational therapist will help Chris learn to cook simple meals and use a washer and dryer. Functional Vocational Assessment: The fall work experience will help identify Chris’s skills and training needs before starting the spring work experience with the job coach. 82