Transition from HS to College
As your child prepares to transition from high school to college, it's natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. For parents of special education students, this transition may come with unique considerations and challenges. As a special education advocate, I am here to provide guidance, support, and insights to help ease this journey for both you and your child.
1 . Start Early: The Importance of Transition Planning and transitioning from iep to 504
As with any students approaching their senior year of high school and the excitement of applying to college, early planning is critical. The multitude of things to check off is definitely overwhelming for our mainstream kids. Now imagine how your SPED child feels. The thought of preparing your special education student for college may seem immense, impossible even but if we begin the process early, and with the right guidance, it can be an exciting moment for you and your child. Lets begin with where to start: Its ideally during high school junior year. You will collaborate with educators, counselors, and the special education team of professionals to move your child from an IEP to a 504 plan. The 504 plan adheres to the IDEA and ADA and the college or university will accept it to address your child’s academic, social, and emotional needs.
2. Identify College Resources for Students with Disabilities
Research and visit schools, especially the support services people. Research the various resources at the schools your child is considering. Some are much better than others and I can guide you in the necessary direction. Also keep in mind that colleges are required to provide reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Familiarize yourself with the disability support office, counseling services, and any specialized programs that cater to the needs of students with diverse learning profiles.
3. Foster Self-Advocacy Skills
Encourage your child to actively participate in their educational journey by fostering self-advocacy skills. I can help equip them with the ability to articulate their learning needs, understand their accommodations, and communicate effectively with professors and support staff. This skill set is invaluable in navigating the college environment independently. Your child will learn how to advocate for themselves through role play and lots of practice.
4. Promote Independence
Encourage your child to take on responsibilities related to their education. This includes registering for classes, managing their schedule, communicating with professors, and utilizing available resources. Promoting independence is a crucial step in preparing them for the increased autonomy of college life.
5. Emotional Well-being Matters
Transitioning to college is not just an academic adjustment but also a significant emotional milestone. Be attuned to your child's emotional well-being because there will be some big feelings associated with this major transition. This is your opportunity to provide a supportive environment for open communication. Colleges often offer counseling services, and it's essential for your child to know how to access these resources when needed. Practice and role play will make a difference!
YOu have an Ally in this massive Transition !
As a special education advocate, I am here to teach and support you and your child throughout this transition process. There is so much to know and a short time to know it. Together, we can navigate the complexities, oversome the inevitable challenges and of course to celebrate achievements. The journey to college is a transformative experience, and with the right guidance, your special education student can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
