Highlights

Paving the Way: Parent Tips for Supporting Success in High School and Beyond
Information for parents of high school students featuring a wealth of practical tips and resources on:
- Communication and Teamwork
- Study Habits and Course Selection
- Celebration and Support
- Preparing for the Future
“Think Higher. Think College” Video
This 2023 video, developed as part of a recent Think College public awareness campaign, highlights the many things students with intellectual disability love about college: living in the dorm, taking classes that they choose, making friends, eating good food, participating in campus activities, and being independent. Hear from students and faculty from 5 different college campuses around the country about all the ways everyone benefits from students with intellectual disability going to college. (4 minutes)
Tips for IEP Teams to Help Students and Families Prepare for Inclusive Postsecondary Education
This handout, created by PACER for Think College, is for families preparing for their child with an intellectual disability to go to college. A checklist and related resources help guide the selection of transition goals and activities that will likely be key factors in making the possibility of college a reality.
College Options for Students with Intellectual Disabilities
Explore helpful information from PACER Center and Think College about inclusive, postsecondary education programs for young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Think College is a national organization dedicated to developing, expanding, and improving inclusive higher education options for young adults with Intellectual Disabilities (ID). PACER Center is a proud partner of Think College.
Learning Center

Middle & High School Transition Planning
Transition planning can begin many years before youth with disabilities graduate from high school. Find out about some of the early steps you can take.

Postsecondary Education
Postsecondary education can open doors of possibilities for youth with disabilities. Learn about the differences between accessing accommodations in high school and college, as well as other important postsecondary information.

Employment
Employment is a crucial aspect of transition. This section contains resources on finding that first job, understanding what services are available to support employment, and helping youth advocate for themselves.

Independent & Community Living
Interested in learning how to support your youth to live independently in the community? Check out these resources on person-centered planning and self-determination.

Laws & Rights
Learn the basics of major federal disability laws and the rights and services they provide.

View All Sections (8)
Whether just starting the transition planning process or searching for information on a specific topic, the Learning Center is a comprehensive source of information designed to support families’ varied needs.
Videos

Preparing For Adulthood Series:
Taking Charge of My Own Health Care
This 4-part series on transitioning from pediatric to adult health care was developed by PACER’s Youth Advisory Board. The series is geared towards youth, parents, medical providers, and teachers to enhance conversations around youth taking charge of their own health care.
Recommended Reading
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Mapping Dreams: The Transition to AdulthoodBook: 50 pages. (Read an excerpt ) This book outlines practical steps parents can take to help plan for their child’s transition from high school to adult employment, postsecondary education or training, and independent living. It includes “Talk to Your Child” sections and checklists to help start discussions about your child’s future, as well as a resource list. Books are $8 each (free for Minnesota parents). |
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Call PACER at (952) 838-9000 and order item ST-40. |
Recently Updated Handouts
- Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Accounts
- Resources to Help Plan for Your Child's Future
- The Supplemental Security Income Application Process
- Opportunities for Work While Receiving Social Security Benefits: Work Incentives and the Ticket to Work Program
- Before Your Next Individualized Education Program (IEP) Meeting: Tips for Teachers of Transition-age Students
- Individualized Education Program (IEP) Meeting Checklist for Teachers of Transition-age Students
- Building a Resume: Tips for Youth with Disabilities
- Choosing a Financial Vehicle for Your Child With Special Health Care Needs
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Quality information and resources for families of transition-age youth with disabilities. We will share all of the most interesting news that impacts you around transition. News / Articles, Tips, Scholarship Opportunities, Laws & Legal News, etc …

Donate to Support our Work
Youth and young adults with disabilities traditionally have a harder time becoming employed, being successful in college, or living independently in their communities. By supporting PACER’s National Parent Center on Transition and Employment, you can help parents understand available resources so they can help their child make the move to adulthood. Demand for information and assistance has never been higher, and we need your help to continue this important work.