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Transition Tuesday #12
May 28, 2024
![Transition Tuesday #12 May 28, 2024](https://cdn.smore.com/u/87d5/932ef24a504f036010c496f9cbd864ee.jpg)
REMINDERS - DUE SUMMER 2024
RF TRACKER SUBMISSION SCHEDULE
RF Tracker - LEAs will only complete the RFT collection if they are serving students with disabilities who reside in a residential facility within the LEA's geographic boundaries and currently report residential facility data through a stand-alone residential facility monitoring system.
See the 23-24 RF Tracker Data Submission Timeline.
May 20, 2024 - RF Tracker ready for users to complete
July 11, 2024 - Due to Region 7
July 18, 2024 - RF Tracker Submission due date for LEAs
August 1, 2024 - RF Tracker data available to customers
Training is available through the ESC 7, 23-24 RFT on-demand course!
TED TRAINING REQUIREMENT
*All LEAs, including school districts and open-enrollment charter schools (even charters that are only K-8) must identify a TED and have them complete the training requirement by August 31, 2024.
STATE PERFORMANCE PLAN INDICATOR 13 SUBMISSION SCHEDULE
SPPI 13's Data Collection Timeline:
- Applications open April 1, 2024
- Applications close August 9, 2024 at 11:59 p.m.
- Applications must be in Certified status by close of application
TRENDING TOPICS IN SPECIAL EDUCATION MONITORING (PER TEA)
TRANSITION
During this quarter, the top three areas of noncompliance in special education monitoring were identified (IEP Development, Transition, Properly Constituted ARDS).
Elements frequently cited for Transition include completing the first Transition ARD meeting prior to a student's 14th birthday, Developing measurable post-secondary goals based upon age-appropriate transition assessments, and Ensuring the IEP addresses the transfer of rights of the student no later than one year before the 18th birthday (age 16).
- Writing Appropriate Measurable Postsecondary Goals: This asynchronous online course gives Texas educators the information and tools to write appropriate measurable postsecondary goals for students with disabilities. Each ESC offers coaching as well to support participants and ensure they apply the skills learned with fidelity.
- Conducting Necessary Transition Assessments: This asynchronous online course gives educators the information and tools needed to conduct meaningful transition assessments. Each ESC offers coaching as well to support participants and ensure they apply the skills learned with fidelity.
- Notice of Transfer of Rights Model Form: This document provides a model form, information, and resources for LEAs to notify students and parents of transfer of rights, guardianship, alternatives to guardianship. This includes supported decision-making agreements as described in Chapter 1357, Estates Code, and other supports and services that may enable the student to live independently.
- Texas Transition and Employment Guide: This guide includes information on statewide services and programs that assist in the transition to life outside of the public school system.
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) REPRESENTATION IN ARDS
The most recent group of monitoring identified common challenges with including a Career and Technical Education (CTE) representative in ARD committee meetings when applicable.
CTE and Special Education Frequently Asked Questions: This document addresses common questions received by the TEA relating to CTE and students served by special education, and includes information about ARD Committee Membership.
RESOURCES
SPPI 14 BOOKMARKS FOR GRADUATING STUDENTS - SURVEY LAUNCHES IN JUNE
The State Performance Plan Indicator (SPPI) 14 survey measures post-school outcomes for students who were receiving special education services when they exited public school. TEA contracts with a vendor to conduct the SPPI 14 survey. On June 3, Gibson Consulting Group will launch the summer 2024 survey for students who were enrolled in grades 9-12 during the 2022-23 school year and graduated, dropped out, completed a GED, or withdrew to enter college.
This year, former students and families will receive invitations to complete the survey through the following methods:
- Email messages from gibsonsurveys@qemailserver.com
- Phone calls from (512) 580-6008
- Text messages from (833) 495-3340
- Postcards
For questions about the survey, they may contact Gibson by sending an email to support@gibsonconsult.com or calling (512) 580-6008. They may also complete the survey by visiting www.TxExit.com.
*GREAT IDEA Local education agencies (LEAs) may print copies of this bookmark to share information about the survey with students and their parents/guardians before they exit public school.
Find the SPPI 14 Bookmarks and other SPPI 14 resources on the Texas Sped Support website HERE.
GRADUATION CODING FOR GRADUATING SENIORS
Utilize the Special Education Graduation-Type Codes document HERE to identify the appropriate graduation codes for your graduating seniors.
*Remember that Graduation = Diploma. A student that will continue for 18+ services can walk the stage with their cohort group but they do not officially graduate and receive a diploma because they have not yet completed their IEP.
*GREAT IDEA For your graduating seniors, share individual special education graduation codes outlined in each IEP with your campus counselors and/or PEIMs clerks. When a student is reported as a graduate to the state of Texas, the graduation codes should be accurate and align with the student's IEP.
TRANSITION SUPPORT FOR 24-25 CYCLE 6 REVIEW COHORT
I would like to offer my support to those seeking transition-specific training for themselves or their staff before the 24-25 Cycle 6 Review. Transition is currently the second most common area of non-compliance in our state. While we have seen significant improvements in our region, there is still much work to be done.
I am committed to making this cohort a priority. However, my calendar quickly fills up with district service requests, so I am offering my time to you first. If you are interested in in-person training, please complete this brief Google Form to outline your needs and possible dates of availability.
ASKTED, TRANSITION GOOGLE SITE, AND TRANSITION LISTSERV
Will you have a new Transition and Employment Designee (TED) for the 24-25 school year? Please make sure they are identified as the TED within AskTED prior to the start of the new school year.
*GREAT IDEA A new TED or any staff that completes transition IEP requirements or teaches special education students at the secondary level would benefit from joining the Transition and VAC listserv HERE. By joining this listserv, staff will receive regular transition updates and resources. Also, have staff members bookmark the ESC REGION 7 TRANSITION GOOGLE SITE: ALL PURPOSE RESOURCE for all things transition.
UPCOMING ESC 7 SUMMER WORKSHOPS
Empowering Futures: Special Education Transition Requirements
JUNE 12, 2024
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
LOCATION: ESC REGION 7
Join me for a comprehensive workshop on "Special Education Transition Requirements for Students with Disabilities." This engaging session will explore the legal foundations, key components, and collaborative strategies involved in ensuring a successful transition for students with disabilities as they navigate the path to adulthood. From understanding the Transition IEP to exploring post-secondary goals and community resources, participants will gain valuable insights into empowering students with disabilities for a seamless transition into independent living, education, and employment. Audience: Special Education Teachers, Transition Specialists, VAC's
Register HERE.
Expedition PFE: Enhance. Empower. Elevate
JUNE 18, 2024
LOCATION: ESC REGION 7
This wonderful full-day experience is FREE to all Region 7 LEAs.
Highlights include:
Keynote and Q&A with renowned author and speaker George Couros
Two rounds of breakout sessions
Lunch provided
Set of PFE books for each participant
Closing address from TEA Director of Federal Programs Compliance Division Jaime Huerte
Participants will gain insight on how to ENHANCE their current program, EMPOWER stakeholders, and ELEVATE the capacity of staff and parents. This event is intended for teachers, counselors, campus and district administrators, homeless liaisons, migrant staff, parent liaisons, special education staff, ESL/Bilingual staff, and federal program directors.
Register HERE.
Future's Planning
JULY 31, 2024
TIME: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
LOCATION: ESC REGION 7
This workshop looks at ways to empower students with intellectual and developmental delays to acquire the skills necessary to live in future environments with purpose, independence, and joy. Topics will include disability awareness, self-advocacy, person-centered planning, student-led ARD meetings, and resources to promote sincere and strategic FUTURES PLANNING. This learning opportunity is for special educators ( life skills teachers, self-contained teachers, vocational teachers, 18+ teachers, transition staff, administrators, and TEDs) looking to improve processes that promote independence and self-advocacy skills within the classroom.
Register HERE.
2024 - 2025 TRANSITION WORKSHOPS SCHEDULE
NEW TO TRANSITION COHORT MEETINGS (A.M.) AND TRANSITION SERVICES (P.M.) MEETINGS SCHEDULE
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!
August 29, 2024
October 10, 2024
December 4, 2024
February 6, 2025
April 9, 2025
A.M. SESSIONS (8:30-11:30): New Transition Employment Designees, Transition Coordinators, and Transition Specialists will receive hands-on professional development related to best practices and legal requirements for Transition. Upon completing this workshop, participants will be able to identify various assessment tools, create data-driven transition supplements and IEP goals, and develop sustainable services and programs that improve student outcomes for students of varying abilities.
*ALL SESSIONS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR ANY DISTRICTS UNDERGOING CYCLICAL MONITORING WITHIN 24-25 SCHOOL YEAR (NEW OR NOT NEW TRANSITION STAFF).
P.M. SESSIONS (12:30-3:30): The Transition Services workshops will provide special education professionals with the knowledge to implement quality transition services that are required as part of the Individual Education Plan for all students 14 years and older. The focus will be on evidence-based practices, collaboration, and networking.
Search Workshops and Register HERE.
STEPS, Marshall ISD
Thecelia Cooks & Cynthia Williams
LINK, Tyler ISD
Melissa Reynolds
Project SEARCH, Tyler ISD
DJ Warren
LEAVING A CLEAR TRAIL
SEPTEMBER 16, 2024
9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
LOCATION: ESC REGION 7
Leaving a Clear Trail is an indispensable course designed to provide a comprehensive roadmap for navigating the intricate landscape of high school graduation for students of varying abilities. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the dynamic relationship between state and district requirements for graduation, explore special education options, master the art of coding courses on the Academic Achievement Record (AAR), and learn to accurately document effectively to guide and support students on their high school journey. Upon completing this course, educators will be equipped with the tools and knowledge necessary to pave a clear path to success for their students.
A DEEP DIVE INTO TRANSITION SERVICES
SEPTEMBER 23, 2024
9:00 AM -3:00 PM
LOCATION: ESC REGION 7
Join me in exploring the core principles and strategies embedded in three key courses developed by the TEA Student-Centered Transition Network. Participants will gain practical guidance on incorporating them into their educational practices. From crafting meaningful Postsecondary Goals to conducting impactful Transition Assessments and developing a Coordinated Set of Activities, this training will equip TEDs, Transition Specialists, ARD Specialists, Diagnosticians, and Case Managers with the knowledge and skills needed to enhance student-centered transition planning. Follow-up coaching opportunities with the ESC Region 7 Transition Specialist for any of the three-course topics covered in this training will be available to attendees upon request.
*HIGHLY RECOMMENDED FOR ANY DISTRICT TRANSITION STAFF UNDERGOING CYCLICAL MONITORING WITHIN THE 24-25 SCHOOL YEAR.
18+ ROUNDTABLE
OCTOBER 25, 2024
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
LOCATION: VIRTUAL
The 18+ ESC 7 Roundtable will provide a forum for special education staff to discuss how 18+ programs and services are implemented within our region. Whether you want to learn more about the requirements for special education services beyond graduation, would like resources to support questions you have about establishing or maintaining 18+ services, or have insight into 18+ transition practices that you would like to share, this is the place to learn from and collaborate with other 18+ pioneers. We look forward to focused discussion about the challenges and best practices you are encountering in your work as a vocational professional.
Attendees will be able to participate in this webinar in their district via the Zoom link provided in the registration confirmation email.
Transition Topics Tuesdays
See Dates and Topics HERE!
Welcome to Transition Topics Tuesdays, an engaging series of virtual, professional development meetings crafted specifically for TEDs and Special Education Vocational Staff members. Join us for each session as we delve into highly requested and relevant transition topics, providing valuable insights and fostering professional growth. Explore key areas of interest, enhance your expertise, and connect with fellow educators in this dynamic learning experience. September's Topic: Person-Centered Plans. Attendees will be able to participate in this webinar in their district via the Zoom link provided in the registration confirmation email.
Search and Register for Workshops HERE.