Extensive Supports & Developmental Disabilities

The Extensive Supports & Developmental Disabilities domain is a crucial component of the secondary transition planning process for students with significant cognitive, physical, or behavioral disabilities. This domain focuses on ensuring that students with the most intensive support needs have access to the comprehensive services and resources required to facilitate a successful transition to adulthood.

 

For students with developmental disabilities or complex support requirements, the transition planning process must address a wide range of considerations, including access to specialized educational programming, assistive technology, personal care services, and community-based supports. Professionals within this domain work closely with students, families, and community providers to develop individualized transition plans that address the student's unique strengths, needs, and post-secondary goals.

 

A key aspect of this domain is collaborating with adult service agencies, such as state developmental disability services, Medicaid waiver programs, and vocational rehabilitation, to ensure a seamless transition of services and supports. Transition planning should include identifying and connecting students and families with the appropriate adult service providers, as well as facilitating the transfer of essential documentation and assessments. By establishing these critical linkages, the school team can help ensure that students with extensive support needs continue to receive the comprehensive services and supports necessary to live, work, and participate in their communities as independently as possible.

 

Throughout the transition planning process, school professionals play a vital role in advocating for the unique needs of students with developmental disabilities, coordinating the delivery of specialized services, and empowering families to navigate the complex systems of adult supports. By addressing the Extensive Supports & Developmental Disabilities domain, the school team can help these students achieve their post-secondary goals and live fulfilling, independent lives.