By Frances Shefter, Esq. (and mom)
Your child’s IEP should do more than help them succeed in school today. It should also prepare them for life after graduation. But how can you tell whether their transition goals are actually meaningful?
In this short video, special education attorney Frances Shefter explains what parents should look for when reviewing their child’s IEP transition plan.
What Makes a Good IEP Transition Goal?
IEP transition goals should be individualized, measurable, and connected to your child’s plans for adulthood. That may include college, vocational training, employment, or independent living.
A good starting point is asking whether the goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
For example, a goal like “the student will improve job readiness skills” is vague. What skills? How will they improve? How will the team measure progress?
A stronger goal might identify a particular skill, such as completing a job application, and describe the expected level of independence and how progress will be measured.
For a deeper explanation of these requirements, read our guide to transition planning in Maryland IEPs.
Three Questions Parents Should Ask
When reviewing your child’s transition plan, consider these three questions:
- Are the goals individualized? Do they reflect your child’s strengths, needs, interests, and future aspirations?
- Are the goals measurable? Can the IEP team demonstrate progress using meaningful information rather than vague statements?
- Do the goals prepare your child for adulthood? Are they building practical skills that support your child’s postsecondary goals?
The same principles apply to other IEP goals. Learn how to determine whether your child’s annual IEP goals match their actual needs.
And remember: having a measurable goal is only the beginning. Parents should also examine whether IEP progress reports match the actual data.
Not Sure Whether Your Child’s Transition Plan Is Appropriate?
If the school’s proposed transition goals seem vague, repetitive, or disconnected from your child’s needs, it may be time to ask more questions.
At Shefter Law, we help parents understand their children’s IEPs and identify potential concerns before important educational decisions are made.
Start with a Free Case Analysis to share your concerns and find out whether our team may be able to help.
Preparing for Life Beyond High School
Transition planning is not just about graduating. It is about helping your child develop the skills, confidence, and support systems they will need for their next chapter.
Whether your child is considering college, employment, or greater independence, planning should reflect their individual path.
Explore our guide to transition planning from high school to adulthood for students with disabilities.
If college is part of your child’s future, our conversation about college readiness for neurodivergent teens offers additional insights into preparing for that transition.
Your Child’s Future Deserves an Individualized Plan
Take another look at your child’s IEP transition goals. Do they make sense for your child? Can progress be measured? Are they helping your child move toward the future they envision?
If you have concerns about your child’s transition planning or the school’s proposed IEP, schedule a Free Case Analysis with Shefter Law.
Our intake team will learn about your concerns and determine whether a Strategy Session or additional support may be appropriate. A Free Case Analysis is an initial screening, not a legal advice session.