Is there a requirement that annual ARDs address transition services needs for students beginning at age 14?
A. Yes, the statute requires that “beginning at age 14, and updated annually, a statement of the transition service needs of the child under the applicable components of the child’s IEP that focuses on the child’s courses of study (such as participation in advanced placement courses or a vocational education program)” be included. This is called an Individualized Transition Plan (ITP) Further, if the purpose of the ARD is to address transition services needs, then the student must be invited to the ARD. If the student does not attend, the district must take steps to ensure that the student’s preferences and interests are considered. The ARD notice must include that the purpose of the meeting is to develop a statement of the transition services needs of the student and that the student is invited. Ensure that a discussion of the courses the student needs in order to achieve career goals are in the ARD. If a current ITP exists, then referencing it in the ARD would suffice. (e.g. appropri
