Explanation of the ITP
The ITP (Individualized Transition Plan) is required, by law, for all students who are 16 years old and receive Special Education Services by IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), 2004.  A process called Person Centered Planning helps your child identify his/her needs, preferences for the future, based on his/her identified skills and interests.  The results of the Person Centered Planning are used to develop the ITP.  An ITP is based on your child’s objectives for what s/he will do after high school.  The ITP drives the IEP (Individualized Education Program).  Each year, the ITP meeting is usually held in conjunction with the IEP.  Your child’s goals will continue to change during the high school years, as s/he matures, and becomes more attuned to his or her skills and abilities.  Your child’s plans will become more realistic, and more focused as s/he gets closer to graduation.

The ITP is comprised of 5 components:

1.     Student Information

  • Credits
  • G.P.A. (Grade Point Average)
  • Diploma or Letter of Recognition
  • CAHSEE (California High School Exit Exam) Scores
  • Vocational Preferences

2.     Post School Outcomes

Your child predicts what s/he wants to do in 2-5 years after graduation related to:

  • Employment
  • Residential (Housing)
  • Education/Training
  • Financial
  • Independent Living

3.     Work Experience and Training Completed

  • Classes
  • Volunteer Experience/s
  • Work Experience/s

4.     Preparation for Adulthood

  • Documentation (birth certificate, transit ID, etc.)
  • Agency Referral

5.     Activities Developed

The ITP activities are based on Person Centered Planning.  Person Centered Planning focuses on your child’s needs, post-school goals, interests and preferences.  Activities developed at the ITP meeting are not limited to school.  Many ITP activities occur at home and in the community.  You are a crucial resource for your child.  See Family Activities to Support Transition for a list of possible activities that you could do at home to support your child’s successful transition. These lists may incorporate many of the tasks you already do to assist your child. They may point to ideas for further development of your child’s skills.

The first ITP meeting is often an overwhelming experience for both parents and students.  Students work with their vocational counselor, case manager, and/or special education teacher to develop their Person Centered Plan and parents are sometimes surprised by goals and choices their child has expressed. Come to an ITP meeting with an open mind, and  realize that this is a chance for your child to “take ownership” of his or her transition to life after high school.

Click on the link below to see questions you might want to think about and ask at the ITP meeting.

Parent ITP Questions