Transition planning helps youth with deafblindness get ready for college, vocational training,
employment, and community life once they leave school. The Individuals with Disabilities Act
mandates that transition training begins by the time a student turns 16 (Alaska requires age 14),
but because students with deafblindness have highly complex needs, many professionals
recommend beginning the process much earlier. It’s a highly individualized process that takes a
team effort over a number of years. In addition to the student, family, and educational team
members, it involves collaboration beyond the school system with relevant adult services such as
vocational rehabilitation, developmental disabilities agencies, and agencies serving adults who
are Deaf/hard of hearing or are blind or visually impaired. The inclusion of members with a
strong understanding of deafblindness on the team is essential.