At what age does transition planning begin for students?

Transition planning for students with disabilities, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing, is a critical part of their educational experience and begins at age 14. This is established under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates that schools start to prepare students for life after high school by the age of 14. The goal is to create a transition plan that supports the student in developing important skills, setting goals, and identifying necessary services that facilitate their move from school to post-secondary opportunities, such as further education, employment, or independent living.

Starting transition planning at age 14 allows students to actively participate in discussions and decisions about their future goals while providing educators and families ample time to assess the individual needs of the student. This proactive approach is essential for fostering autonomy and successful outcomes as students transition to adulthood.