The purpose of Transition is to assist students with disabilities to build the skills and supports they need to successfully reach their post-school goals.

The 2004 reauthorization of the Individual with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) changed transition services to a “results-oriented process” that is focused on improving the academic and functional achievement of the child. The IDEA also requires the individualized education plan (IEP) team to include “appropriate measurable postsecondary goals based upon age-appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment, and, where appropriate, independent living.” The state rules for special education require that transition plans be in place prior to the student entering ninth grade or by age sixteen, whichever comes first.

The Transition Service Plan (TSP), formerly know as individual transition plan (ITP), serves as a guide to assist the student, the family, the school, and community service agencies to formulate a plan that will assist with transition from school to adult life.