Transition timelines from elementary to middle school, middle to high school, and postsecondary transitions are outlined here. Key planning steps are organized by time period, with suggested actions for families to help students prepare for a successful transition.
Elementary to Middle School
October–December (Fall of 5th Grade): Understand Your Path
- Confirm the assigned school based on your address.
- Meet with the current teacher or special education case manager.
- Review the student’s strengths and needs.
- Consider whether the neighborhood school is the right fit.
January–March (Spring of 5th Grade): Learn About the Middle School
- Review the middle school website.
- Attend school choice information nights.
- Learn the bell schedule.
- Explore electives, clubs, and other offerings.
- Learn about special education supports.
- Be aware of enrollment or application deadlines, if applicable.
March–May (Spring of 5th Grade): Participate in New School Events
- Attend orientation or welcome nights.
- Indicate preferred electives and additional courses when available.
- Request a tour if needed.
- Meet new staff members.
- If needed, hold a transition meeting to review the IEP and the plan for the first weeks of school.
August of 6th Grade: Prepare for the Start of School
- Complete required forms.
- Set up transportation.
- Apply for bussing if needed.
- Complete special education bussing forms if applicable.
- Check the bus schedule in the parent portal.
- Check supply lists and organize materials.
- Practice routines such as using a locker, following a schedule, and using a computer.
First Weeks of 6th Grade: Settle In and Communicate
- Help your child learn the new schedule and routines.
- Check in with the student about changes.
- Stay in touch with the new school if concerns come up.
Middle to High School
October–December (Fall of 8th Grade): Understand Your School Path
- Confirm the assigned school based on your address.
- Meet with the current teacher or case manager.
- Review the student’s strengths and needs.
- Consider whether the neighborhood school is the right fit.
January–March (Spring of 8th Grade): Learn About the High School
- Review the high school website.
- Attend school choice information nights.
- Learn the bell schedule.
- Explore electives, clubs, and other offerings.
- Learn about special education supports.
- Be aware of enrollment or application deadlines, if applicable.
March–May (Spring of 8th Grade): Participate in New School Events
- Attend orientation or welcome nights.
- Indicate preferred electives and additional courses when available.
- Request a tour if needed.
- Meet new staff members.
- If needed, hold a transition meeting to review the IEP and the plan for the first weeks of school.
August of 9th Grade: Prepare for the Start of School
- Complete required forms.
- Set up transportation.
- Apply for bussing if needed.
- Complete special education bussing forms if applicable.
- Check the bus schedule in the parent portal.
- Practice routines such as using a locker, following a schedule, and using a computer.
First Weeks of 9th Grade: Settle In and Communicate
- Help your child learn the new schedule and routines.
- Check in with the student about changes.
- Stay in touch with the new school if concerns come up.
Postsecondary Transition – Bridges
Bridges supports students as they transition from school to the adult world. Individualized services connect students and parents to supports and opportunities that promote skill development, self-advocacy, and independence. It is a dynamic partnership involving young adults, families, staff, agencies, and the community through shared participation and responsibility. Services are flexible and tailored to students’ individual needs.
Why Bridges?
Bridges provides additional support as students adjust to the adult environment and gain independence. It serves as a bridge from the secure world of the classroom to the adult world.
We focus on three guiding questions:
- Where do you want to be when you leave Academy District 20?
- How can we help you get there?
- What long-term supports do you need?
Who Is Eligible?
Any student with an individualized educational plan (IEP) is eligible. The young adult must be 18 to 21 years old, live in Academy District 20, and have met high school or individual graduation requirements.
Services Offered
Adult Service Agency Connections
- Assistance connecting with agencies that offer long-term support services to young adults in the community
- Contracting with adult agencies based on student needs
Community and Social Opportunities
- Varies according to individual needs
- Participation in life skill activities
- Exploration of community connections
- Development and participation in recreational activities with peers
- Access to transportation options
Career Development
- Career skill activities related to personal growth and relational development
- Expanded volunteer work experiences
- Exploration of potential career opportunities
- Resume and job application assistance
- Short-term job coaching
- Assistance with requesting job accommodations
Postsecondary Educational Opportunities
- Bridges workshops
- Connection to support services at college
What Is Social Graduation?
Social graduation allows students to participate in the traditional graduation ceremony. However, the official diploma is granted when the student exits Bridges. The transcript remains open, enabling students to earn one elective credit per semester.
Transition Coordinators and Facilitators
- Hannah Pryor, Transition Teacher
- Kandy Goforth, Transition Teacher
- Danielle Horner, Transition Teacher