Prosper ISD Transition Services
Meet the Prosper ISD Transition Team!
Julia Chalker
Transition Coordinator
jtchalker@prosper-isd.net
469-219-2430, ext. 82514
Drew Webb
Transition Specialist
Prosper High School
jdwebb@prosper-isd.net
469-219-2180, ext. 80466
Serves PHS & Rushing Middle School
Julianna Murray
Transition Specialist
Rock Hill High School
jmmurray@prosper-isd.net
469-219-2300, ext. 81283
Serves RHHS, Hays Middle School, & Rogers Middle School
Evan Kouvaras
Transition Specialist
Walnut Grove High School
egkouvaras@prosper-isd.net
469-219-2180, ext. 82511
Serves WGHS & Reynolds Middle School
Hear about why TRANSITION is something that should be addressed at ALL AGES!
- What Transition is and why it is
important to address early
- Planning with a future vision in
mind
- Things you may need to do NOW to
ensure support is there LATER
- How to support transition/promote
independence early on
Access slides HERE
What do we mean by TRANSITION?
The word “Transition” means change or movement. Students go through many transitions, from entering school, moving from preschool to kindergarten to elementary, middle, and high school, and graduation and movement into adulthood. For students receiving support through Special Education, these transitions typically require more thought, planning, and preparation than other students may require.
Transition planning should be a lifelong process in which stakeholders (student, family members, friends, and professionals) work together to develop a plan of action that will lead to a successful adult life. As part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a student’s IEP will include plans for this transition beginning at the age of 14 (in Texas -- federal law requires by the age of 16).
This transition planning includes:
Age-appropriate transition assessments
Appropriate measurable postsecondary goals in the areas of training, education, employment, and independent living skills based on assessments
The transition services and courses of study needed to help student reach those goals
Annual goals that represent the steps needed to prepare for achieving the postsecondary goals
For students receiving support through Special Education, these transitions typically require more thought, planning, and preparation than other students may require.
Transition services refer to a coordinated set of activities that promote movement from school to post-school activities, including:
Postsecondary education
Vocational assessment and/or training
Integrated employment (including supported employment)
Continuing and adult education
Adult services
Independent living skills, or
Community participation
Students with disabilities who are getting closer to graduation have the right to transition services. Watch this video to learn more about transition services and your legal rights.
General Transition Resources
What Can Parents & Families Do To Support Youth During the Transition Process?
Tips and ideas that parents and families can do beginning at an early age to encourage gradual independence, participate in the community, teach self-advocacy skills, and develop skills that will be necessary for future employment.
Texas Transition & Employment Guide
Provides secondary transition resources to facilitate a young person’s progress towards post-secondary goals to education, employment, and community living. This guide will continually be updated. The guide is divided into sections on Self Advocacy, Transition Services, Employment and Supported Employment, Social Security Programs, Community and Long Term Services and Supports, Postsecondary Educational Programs and Services, Information Sharing, and Guardianship and Alternatives.
Access a PDF of the guide HERE
The Texas Transition website is an activity of the Student-Centered Transitions Network (SCTN) in collaboration with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and provides transition-related information for students, families, and educators.
An online resource for parents or caregivers of children with disabilities or special health care needs. Find tools, support, and inspiration to help you on your journey.
The Journey to Life After High School: A Road Map for Parents of Children with Special Needs
Very comprehensive resource including information about the transition process, employment options, day programs, housing, securing benefits, and preparing for your child's long-term future.
While it may be hard to imagine your child as an adult out in the world or what he or she will be doing once the school bus is no longer coming, that time will be here before you know it.
Accessing Community-Based Supports & Services
Resources & Help Available: Get on the Waiting Lists Now
Accessing Waiting Lists for Medicaid Waiver Programs
Instructions on how to get on the interest/waiting lists for community-based services through making two phone calls. Texas has the second-longest waiting lists in the country so parents are recommended to get on the lists AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, even if you aren’t sure you will need the services.
Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs Chart (8-2018)
Comparison of the different long-term support waiver programs as well as the different services available under each of the programs.
Explanation of IDD Services & Supports (HHS 7-2019)
Brief description of intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) services and supports provided by the Texas Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC).
Resources & Help Available: Get on the Waiting Lists Now
Accessing Waiting Lists for Medicaid Waiver Programs
Instructions on how to get on the interest/waiting lists for community-based services through making two phone calls. Texas has the second-longest waiting lists in the country so parents are recommended to get on the lists AS EARLY AS POSSIBLE, even if you aren’t sure you will need the services.
Texas Medicaid Waiver Programs Chart (8-2018)
Comparison of the different long-term support waiver programs as well as the different services available under each of the programs.
Explanation of IDD Services & Supports (HHS 7-2019)
Brief description of intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) services and supports provided by the Texas Health & Human Services Commission (HHSC).
Agencies
LifePath Systems (Collin County)
LifePath Systems is a community-based, non-profit organization created specifically to help individuals and their families dealing with mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities and developmental delays.
Denton County MHMR Center is a local Non-Profit Community Center specializing in the treatment of and service delivery to individuals in Denton County with a mental health diagnosis or a developmental disability diagnosis.
Texas Workforce Solutions - Vocational Rehabilitation Services
TWS helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, or retain employment and helps youth and students prepare for post-secondary opportunities. This is a link to their website.
Information about how to connect with the TWS transition vocational counselor assigned to our district.
Special Needs Financial Supports
Applying for SSI Workshop
Learn how to navigate the complicated process of applying for Supplemental Security Income, including what needs to be done before starting the application, hints on completing the application, work incentives, and more!
Access updated slides HERE
SSI Success Framework Course
Course from Family to Family Network that walks you through every step of the SSI application process. The class is designed for parents or guardians of young adults ages 18-25 and has 8 lessons covering the SSI process, creating a good application, documentation required, how to get the maximum amount of SSI possible, and the use and reporting of work incentives (if applicable).
Course is $97 but well worth it!
Register for the course HERE
How to Make SSI Work For You: Simply Said
Several federal government programs including Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Work Incentives, and Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) provide benefits or support to eligible youth as they work toward their postsecondary and employment goals. Youth and families can use the information they learn to plan ahead and apply for the benefits and supports they need after high school. Video from PACER Center.
Social Security Administration: Benefits for Children with Disabilities (2020)
This booklet is for the parents, caregivers, or representatives of children younger than age 18 who have disabilities that might make them eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments. It is also for adults who became disabled in childhood (prior to age 22), and who might be entitled to Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits. (We call this SSDI benefit a “child’s” benefit because it’s paid on a parent’s Social Security earnings record.) This booklet will help you decide if you, your child, or a child you know, might be eligible for SSI or SSDI.
The SSI Application Process (PACER Center)
What to expect during the application process for SSI.
SSI is a federal program through the Social Security Administration that offers monthly cash assistance to help you pay for your child’s personal and medical needs. It is for things like food and shelter, medical and dental care not covered under health insurance, and personal needs like clothing. You must apply and be approved for SSI based on your family or your child’s income. Information about how SSI works, the application process, and documentation required.
Information about ABLE accounts, a 529A tax-advantaged savings account for eligible individuals with disabilities.
Information about the importance of considering setting up a special needs trust to allow your child to receive/save money without losing benefits, even future benefits.
Organizing Your Special Needs Documents/Records
Let's Get Organized!
Special Needs Binders, Letters of Intent, & Electronic Organization/ Storage
Learn about the importance of developing a system of organizing important information about your child, ways to do so including through electronic storage, and the basics of getting started on writing a Letter of Intent to ensure that your loved one is well cared for in the future.
Below are some documents to help with this process:
Below are some documents to help with this process:
A Guide to Organizing Your Paperwork
Letter of Values & Expectations (LOVE Letter)
Binder/Letter of Intent Info Gathering Docs
Guardianship, Supported Decision Making, & Other Alternatives
The Changing Role of Parents after Transfer of Rights
Video from Pacer.org about the changing role of parents when a student reaches the age of majority.
Guardianship, Supported Decision Making, & Other Legal Considerations Workshop Slides
Parent workshop outlining what to consider when determining if guardianship or another alternative might be appropriate for your child as well as the processes involved.
Guardianship, Alternatives, & Supported Decision Making
Description of guardianship, alternatives to guardianship, and Supported Decision Making, as well as links to guardianship-related resources.
Sample Guardianship Questionnaire
Questionnaire routinely given by courts and/or attorneys during guardianship process. This is intended only to give parents an idea of the areas of functioning that a court examines as well as what parents may want to consider when determining if guardianship may be necessary.
Legal Matters to Consider When Planning for the Future
From the Autism Speaks Transition Toolkit (but not just applicable to those with autism), this information outlines topics to be considered when your child reaches the age of majority (18 in Texas), including health insurance, guardianship, and special needs trusts. Includes a useful list of questions in different areas to consider how much or what kind of assistance an individual may need assistance with decision making.
Higher Education / College
Higher Education Resource Guide for Students with Disabilities
Designed for students with disabilities, this guide includes information and resources to assist in the planning for postsecondary education supporting employment goals.
Designed to help students and parents honestly assess college readiness as well as what skills need to be obtained before college is a realistic option.
Think College is a national organization dedicated to developing, expanding, and improving inclusive higher education options for people with intellectual disability. With a commitment to equity and excellence, Think College supports evidence-based and student-centered research and practice by generating and sharing knowledge, guiding institutional change, informing public policy, and engaging with students, professionals and families.
Learn about the general differences between
high school and college
high school and college
Learn about the differences between the supports received in high school vs. what one might be able to receive in the college setting
Inclusive Postsecondary Education Programs
Student/Parent Panel
Topics discussed include the admission/selection process, supports provided, classes taken, extracurricular activities, and recommendations for students and parents considering such a program. Link to Summary Slides
Preparing for College (for Parents):
Strategies to Help Your Student Get Ready
Strategies to Help Your Student Get Ready
Hear from a community college professor about the critical skills needed for college success, what professors expect students to be able to do independently, and tips about how parents can help develop and strengthen these skills.
Independent Living
Recreation & Leisure
Special Needs Recreational & Camp Programs
Comprehensive list of area recreational programs, day camps/programs, sensory-friendly events, etc. with emphasis on special needs. Also includes overnight camp programs in Texas and the regional area.
Family Support
Sibshops provide brothers and sisters who have siblings with special needs peer support and information in a lively, recreational setting.
Prosper ISD Sibshops Info - 2023-2024
Information about our own Sibshops program here in Prosper ISD, including this year's schedule.
Prosper ISD Sibshops Registration - 2023-2024
Link to registration for this year's Sibshops program.
Safety / Take Me Home Program
Take Me Home Program
Take Me Home is an information sharing program originally developed by the Pensacola (FL) Police Department, and it is intended for residents of any age who may become lost or need special assistance. The information shared and assistance provided may be necessary if the person becomes lost or disoriented and is unable to speak, properly identify themselves, or might act in a manner that could be misinterpreted by first responders.
The program includes a current digital picture, demographic information and caregiver contacts. If a person enrolled in Take Me Home is encountered by a police officer, the officer can query an in-house database searching by name or by the person’s physical description. Once the individual’s Take Me Home information has been located, the officer can appropriately assist the person. The system also works in reverse: if a loved one goes missing, the subject’s picture and description are immediately available to responding officers.
Participation in Take Me Home is completely voluntary, and all information is kept confidential. Additionally, there are no fees associated with the program.
Info sheet that can be completed and shared with school staff, family, friends, neighbors, caregivers, police, fire, and rescue professionals.
Apps for Emergency Preparedness & Care Coordination
Listing from Texas Health & Human Services of free apps that help with care coordination, emergency preparedness, and more!
Big Red Safety Toolkit: A Digital Resource for Caregivers
Toolkit for caregivers of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) who are prone to wandering off from a safe environment, and whose diagnosis may interfere with their ability to recognize danger and/or stay safe.
Preparing for Disaster for People with Disabilities & Other Special Needs
Protecting yourself and your family when disaster strikes requires planning ahead. Useful information from Homeland Security, FEMA, and the American Red Cross to help in preparing an emergency plan.
Ready.gov (Department of Homeland Security)
Information on how to prepare for a potential disaster for individuals with disabilities, including creating a plan, making an emergency kit, and specific tips pertinent to different types of disabilities.
Parent Groups / Organizations
National Autism Association of North Texas (NAA-NT)
NAA-NT provides community education and nationwide advocacy for children and adults with ASD Spectrum Disorder.
The Down Syndrome Guild provides accurate and current information, resources, and support for people with Down syndrome, their families and the community.
Texas Parent to Parent provides support, information, and education for families of children of all ages who have disabilities or chronic illness.
Partners Resource Network is a non-profit agency that operates the Texas statewide network of Parent Training and Information Centers [PTI’s are funded by the US Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)]. The PTI Projects are: PATH, PEN, and TEAM.
The Arc is the largest national community-based organization advocating for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
The Arc of DFW Area provides information and referrals to the I/DD community and provides educational, advocacy, and awareness opportunities. More specifically, we offer regular training on I/DD topics, such as special education, transition to adulthood, legal rights and options, and Medicaid supports. We also seek to collaborate with local and state policy-makers to advocate for the I/DD community and educate them on I/DD priorities.
The Autism Society provides advocacy, education, information and referral, support, and community at national, state and local levels in order to improve the lives of all affected by autism.
Autism Speaks is dedicated to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families through advocacy and support; increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism; and advancing research into causes and better interventions for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.
A variety of tool kits with information and resources in such areas as diagnosis, behavior, advocacy, family support, school, finances, community, transition, and employment.
Postsecondary Day Programs & Residential Options
Description of community day programs, now referred to as Individualized Skills & Socialization Services (ISS programs), including a list of questions to ask when exploring programs.
Description of different community-based residential options as well as what to look for in quality programs and a list of questions to ask when exploring programs.
Community for Permanent Supporting Housing website
CPSH is an organization that advocates, educates, and collaborates to create access to community-based, safe, affordable housing options and support services for residents with disabilities in Texas.
Mental Health Resources
County Mental Health Contacts
LifePath Systems Crisis Services
LifePath Systems Adult Services
Denton County MHMR Adult & Mental Health Services
Comprehensive list of mental health-related resources and information provided by the Texas Statewide Behavioral Health Coordinating Council.
Ad-free nonprofit website which provides information regarding mental health issues in order to provide information in order that individuals can make informed decisions and take positive steps.