The word “Transition” means change or movement. Students go through many transitions, from entering school, moving from preschool to kindergarten to elementary, middle, and high school, and graduation and movement into adulthood. For students receiving support through Special Education, these transitions typically require more thought, planning, and preparation than other students may require. Transition planning should be a lifelong process in which stakeholders (student, family members, friends, and professionals) work together to develop a plan of action that will lead to a successful adult life.

This workshop will cover important transition-related topics, including what transition is and the need to address it early, accessing services and interest lists, planning for the future, and how to support transition/promote independence early on.

Presented by:
Julia Chalker is Transition Coordinator of a local school district, Board president of REACH Resource Centers on Independent Living, a Board member of the Arc of DFW Area, and the sister and future guardian of her brother Bobby, who has autism.  Julia is passionate about preparing individuals of all ages, as well as their families, for the transition from school-aged entitlement services to the eligibility system that exists for adult services. She believes that it is never too early or too late to start thinking about the future and planning the next steps, but that in Texas, where the waiting lists for services are long, the earlier the better!

Space is limited and advance registration is required by Wednesday, March 30. Questions? Please contact Jennifer Ford.

*Please note this session will NOT be eligible for recording or virtual attendance.*

COVID-19: The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas highly encourages masks, frequent hand sanitizing, and social distancing when possible for all in-person programs and events. We aim to provide safe activities across all age groups; however, please know there are risks involved with attending an in-person event of this nature. The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas assumes no responsibility should you or your family members test positive for the COVID-19 virus after attending one of our events.
If you or your family members are experiencing any symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, we ask that you please remain home to help reduce the spread to our high risk population. We also ask that you please notify us if you or your family members test positive in the days following an event so we can inform others of possible exposure. Names and other identifying information will always be kept confidential. COVID-19 policies and procedures are subject to change as new information and recommendations from national, state, and local leaders emerge.