For many families, high school graduation is an exciting milestone filled with pride, celebration, and anticipation for the future. For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), graduation also marks the beginning of an important transition from school-based supports to adult services and opportunities.
While this transition can feel overwhelming, planning early and working closely with your care manager, school team, and support network can help ensure a smooth path into adulthood.
What Changes After High School?
Once a student exits the school system, many of the services and supports provided through their educational program end. Families and young adults must begin making decisions about employment, post-secondary education, day services, community involvement, housing, transportation, benefits, and healthcare.
The good news is that many resources are available to help people build meaningful, fulfilling adult lives. Whether a person plans to attend college, pursue employment, participate in day services, or explore a combination of opportunities, thoughtful planning can make all the difference.
Introducing the High School Transition Checklist
To help families navigate this important journey, Southern Tier Connect has developed a high school transition checklist. This tool outlines key activities and timelines to consider as students prepare for adulthood and explores options based on an individual’s goals and interests.
The checklist includes guidance for students who are:
- College-bound
- Employment-focused
- Interested in OPWDD day services and community-based supports
- Preparing for independent adult responsibilities and decision-making
Important Areas to Consider
The checklist encourages families to begin planning for important adult milestones, including:
- Applying for SSI and Medicaid at age 18, when appropriate
- Obtaining a State ID
- Exploring guardianship or less restrictive alternatives
- Planning for transportation, housing, employment, and financial needs
- Determining future healthcare and dental coverage
- Connecting with key community agencies and support systems
For students considering employment, the checklist highlights opportunities to connect with ACCES-VR and explore vocational training programs, supported employment services, and career-focused educational experiences.
For students pursuing higher education, it emphasizes working with college disability service offices, completing FAFSA applications, seeking scholarships, and participating in summer work experiences to build skills and independence.
The Family’s Role
Families remain an essential part of the transition process. The checklist reminds parents and caregivers to stay involved in IEP meetings, ensure evaluations and assessments remain current, maintain communication with their care manager, and continue conversations about future goals and aspirations. Most importantly, families should encourage their young adults to participate actively in planning and decision-making whenever possible.
How Your Care Manager Can Help
Your care manager is a valuable partner throughout the transition process. They can help:
- Identify adult service options
- Connect individuals to OPWDD and community resources
- Facilitate referrals to vocational and employment supports
- Assist with benefit applications and service coordination
- Ensure the individual’s goals and preferences remain at the center of planning
Graduation is not the end of the journey; it is the beginning of a new chapter. With preparation, collaboration, and the right supports, young adults with I/DD can successfully pursue their goals and build meaningful lives in their communities.
If your child is approaching graduation or you would like a copy of the High School Transition Checklist, please contact your care manager for additional support and guidance.