Chapter 8: Students With Disabilities: Making Idea Transition Services Work

Transitions from high school to postsecondary education and employment can be particularly challenging for students with disabilities (Bangser, 2008). According to Burgstahler and Kim-Rupnow (2001), students with disabilities are less prepared to meet the challenges of adulthood, more likely to continue to live with their parents after high school, and engage in fewer social activities. Nationally, less than eight percent of students with disabilities graduate high school with a job, are enrolled in post-secondary education, are involved in community recreation and leisure activities (Condon & Callahan, 2008). School completion is one of the most significant issues facing special education programs nationally (Gaylord, Johnson, Lehr, Bremer, & Hasazi, 2004). According to Wagner et al. (1991), as cited in National Center on Secondary Education and Transition (NCSET, 2004):