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Individual Transition Plan (ITP)

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An Individual Transition Plan (ITP) is a part of a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) that focuses on preparing them for life after high school. It is required by law in California to begin by age 16 (sometimes earlier) and is updated each year.

The ITP is designed to help students with special needs set and work toward goals for:

  • Education – college, vocational training, or other learning opportunities.
  • Employment – exploring careers, learning job skills, and planning for future work.
  • Independent Living – developing daily living, social, and self-advocacy skills (when appropriate).

Key Features of an ITP

  • Student-centered – based on the student’s strengths, preferences, and interests.
  • Goal-oriented – includes measurable postsecondary goals and yearly objectives.
  • Collaborative – created with input from the student, parents, educators, and when appropriate, community agencies (like the Department of Rehabilitation).
  • Practical – may include activities like job shadowing, internships, college exploration, travel training, or independent living skill instruction.

The ITP ensures that by the time students leave high school, they have a clear plan and the skills they need to move forward confidently into adulthood.