It is extremely important to know that when your child becomes 14 years old you and his/her school personnel must begin to plan toward graduation and the changeover from school programs to services, training programs and employment options in the adult world (Transition).

1. Under P.L. 94-142 (Education for All Handicapped Children Act) your child’s eligibility for Special Education services will cease at the time of graduation or at age 21 whichever occurs first. Neither a local school district nor an intermediate unit is permitted to provide for any need your child may have, after eligibility has been terminated.
2. Should your child need specialized vocational, prevocational or residential programs after graduation the arrangements for requesting a service(s) must be initiated by YOU.

In the past many parents have known these facts, but have not made contact with the adult services waiting for someone to contact them. This has resulted in long delays in receiving adult services for that child. 

Planning for your child’s post secondary needs must be addressed well in advance to gain insight into what is available and where to locate the most appropriated program. Historically, there have been more applicants than specialized services/programs. Advanced planning does not guarantee placement, however, little or last minute action has often resulted in a service delay and/or, in some instances, acceptance of a less than desirable placement.

We urge you to begin exploring the options you and your child and the school may feel are the most appropriate to meet his/her future needs. We suggest the following activities as an initial starting point.

1. Actively participate in every IEP (Individual Education Plan) conference and be aware that your child’s school personnel are required to begin to formulate a “Transition” plan when your child reaches age 14. Start looking early. Provide your personal insights for consideration in the development of short-term (1 year) goals that will strengthen your child’s capabilities, especially, regarding self-sufficiency skills needed after graduation
2. Discuss with your child’s teacher(s) the projected time of graduation – at 18 or 21 years of age? This decision should be a joint determination, however, it is choice of student and the parents.
3. Contact or authorize contact to be made with an appropriate organization that can advise you about procedures and options. Possible organizations are: The Arc of Berks County; Office of Vocational Rehabilitation; Parent Education Network; and Service Access and Management Inc.