All students need to plan for life after high school.  For students with disabilities this process can be particularly challenging.  Several things need to be considered when preparing for the transition to adulthood.  If students want to continue their education, do they want to pursue technical training or continue to a two year or four year college?   If they seek employment, are there accommodations that will assist them in being successful in the work environment? 

In Virginia, credit accommodations and locally assigned verifiable credits can assist students with disabilities working toward a standard diploma. Information on these provisions are available through your local school division.  Once a student graduates with a standard or advanced diploma, or turns 22 years of age, services under the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) are no longer available. However, individuals with disabilities may still require supports while pursuing post-secondary education or employment.  The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act, allow for accommodations in either an academic or work place setting.  If your student is attending college or a technical training school they should contact the disability services counselor for their campus location.  Their company human resources specialist can provide information about workplace supports or accommodations utilized by their employer.

Independent living is an important aspect of any adult’s life.  When determining the level of support needed for your child, several things should be carefully considered.  Does your child want to live on his or her own or would they like to live with a roommate?  Do they have the ability and financial resources to maintain an apartment/ home or will they need some assistance?   How do I find resources in my community?

If a student is not currently receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) from the Social Security Administration, they may be found eligible to receive this assistance once they turn 18 years of age.  Individuals already receiving case management services from the Community Services Board (CSB) can contact them to see what additional supports they may be able to provide.  Medicaid Waiver Services may assist with additional resources to those found eligible to receive them.   There are several Centers for Independent Living (CIL) throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.  These private nonprofit organizations help individuals with disabilities live inclusive lives in their communities. 

Self-advocacy skills are essential for individuals with disabilities.  In the Commonwealth of Virginia, driver’s education is part of the physical education curriculum for tenth grade students.   Students must complete a classroom portion of the course and obtain a driving permit before registering for the behind the wheel portion of their instruction.  Students who are not trying to obtain a driver’s license can still apply for an identification card through the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).  Other independent living skills such as accessing public transportation, applying for membership at a recreation center, opening a bank account, or shopping at the grocery store, may be included in the student’s transition plan which is part of the IEP.  Parents are encouraged to reinforce these competences by providing their children with the opportunity to practice and refine them in their neighborhood and local community.

Puberty can be a time of mixed feelings for parents and pre-teens. It may be a time of pride and celebration, as well as a time of worry and confusion. It is hard for pre-teens to understand the many changes that come along with puberty. Also, parents may feel unsure of how to explain these changes to their child.

Mental health refers to our cognitive, behavioral, and emotional wellbeing - it is all about how we think, feel, and behave.