Understanding “Transition” in the Context of Youth With Disabilities
Successful post-high school transitions for youth with disabilities rest on four pillars
Transition: (n) the process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another. ________________________________________________________________________
For high school students with disabilities, “transition” is the process of preparing youth for adult life after high school. For youth with cognitive impairments, the path to post-high school success isn’t as straightforward as it may be for the general student population.
The Challenge of Post-High School Transitions. Youth with disabilities may not have had adequate opportunities during high school to explore their talents, interests or post-high school options.
They may not know what they’re capable of achieving as adults -- or, even, what success after high school looks like. Compounding this challenge, upon leaving school, many students suddenly lose the in-school services and supports they received. They also lose the sense of routine, safety and purpose that going to school has provided for most of their lives.
These losses can also extend to their families. Families of youth with disabilities often face tremendous uncertainty during this transition. When their children leave school, caregivers lose the structure, enrichment, and childcare support that school provided. And they often struggle to navigate the opportunities, programs and benefits that exist to help them and their children in the new post-high school world.
The Four Pillars of Success Post-High School Transitions. Youth with disabilities are capable of living self-sufficient, productive, healthy and connected lives. But successful transitions don’t happen by accident; they are both intentional and informed. While success will look different from student to student, all successful transitions rest on four main pillars.
Employment/Education
Healthcare
Benefits, Rights & Housing, and
Community Connections
The chart below provides more information on each pillar and the role it plays promoting successful transitions.
Students and families shouldn’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. Future TTA posts will dive into each pillar and how TTA’s work supports post-high school transitions for Kansas City youth with disabilities.