Information for Parents

Being informed is the best way to advocate for the services and programs your child may need to effectively transition from high school to employment, post-secondary education & training and community living. This page is divided into sections to help you navigate the transition process with your young adult to help them transition successfully from school to adult life.

Understanding the Transition Process

The Rhode Island Department of Education works closely with school districts and parent organizations to provide the best available services for students with special education needs in transition. The guide Here's to Your Students Future is a good place to start planning for transition. The Rhode Island Parent Information Network (RIPIN) has additional information in English and Spanish to assist with transition planning.

The Rhode Island Department of Education also contracts with the Rhode Island Parent Information Network to provide outreach and training events and consultation to parents with children in transition. Contact the RIPIN Transition Coordinator or call RIPIN at 800-464-3399 or 401-727-4144.

Programs & Agencies that can assist in the Transition Process

There are many agencies and programs that may become involved with a student as they transition from school to the community. The most important thing to remember is that students are moving from a system of entitlement to a system of eligibility. This means that they will need to apply for the services they need, advocate for their needs and persist in getting what they need to be successful in the community. Some of the most common agencies student will access in transition are listed below. Some of these agencies contract with vendors (typically private or non-profit agencies) to provide the actual services to the student.

Department of Human Services - Office of Rehabilitation Services

Department of Mental Health, Retardation & Hospitals (MHRH) - Division of Developmental Disabilities