Guiding Principles
Transition planning
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Policy and guiding principles
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acknowledges a student’s right to an appropriate education
is a collaborative process
is student centred and promotes independence and self-advocacy
explores programming and services in relation to specific strengths,
needs, and aspirations
uses an outcomes-based framework
reflects inclusive practices
is necessary for all students on individualized programs or with special
needs requiring support at key transition stages
Policy
Policy 2.7 of the Special Education Policy Manual (1996) provides the context
for transition planning in Nova Scotia.
Transition planning is part of the individual planning process for each
student with special needs.
2.7 Guidelines
Transition implies passage from one stage to another. While this applies at
all stages from preschool to grade 12, special emphasis should be placed on
particular phases of this process; for example, the transitions from preschool
to school entry, from elementary to junior high, junior high to high school
and high school to community. School-to-community transition is the
crossover from youth to adulthood and carries with it expectations of
independent living, employment, and recreational pursuits. Transition
planning must take into consideration all major aspects of each student’s
life experiences.
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TRANSITION PLANNING FOR STUDENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
THE EARLY YEARS THROUGH TO ADULT LIFE