Date of Award

8-2018

Degree Type

Creative Project

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Special Education and Rehabilitation

Committee Chair(s)

Robert Morgan

Committee

Robert Morgan

Committee

Kimberly Snow

Committee

Jared Schultz

Abstract

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 requires transition planning to begin at age 16 years, but many states require transition planning to begin even earlier. In Utah, the amended age for starting transition planning is 14 years. Early implementation of transition planning requires collaboration between middle school teachers, parents, and adult service agencies. Parents of middle school students with significant disabilities completed an online survey to identify postsecondary transition related priorities and knowledge. Participants identified top priorities within seven transition outcomes, as well as the information needed to understand and support their student within each specific transition area. Results showed that middle school parents prioritized the development of social relationships and daily living/functional skills. The highest frequencies included having relationships and seeing friends within organized groups, relationships with family, and living at home. Results from this study will guide transition teachers and service providers in developing training sessions for parents of middle school students.

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