Transitions and Pathways
At Renfrew County Catholic DSB, we are committed to assisting students with the preparation for, and the adjustment to change as they adapt to a variety of settings in an effort to reduce or avoid some of the anxiety that they may experience. The Education Act requires school boards to provide a transition plan for all students on an Individual Education Plan (IEP).
Entry Planning
Our goal in planning for entry to school is to help children adjust quickly to a school setting, enjoy learning, and develop a positive attitude towards education. A positive start to school improves a child’s chance of success from entry to graduation. Parent(s)/Guardian(s) and at times, students, are encouraged to participate in the early registration process.
Early registration
- Parents and/or guardians
- Providers of preschool programs and services; and
- Board staff.
Entry planning meeting
- Share copies of relevant assessment result and/or reports;
- Share the child’s pre-school and/or present school information;
- Identify the strengths and needs of the child; and
- Discuss current and future goals for the child.
- Parents and/or guardians
- Providers of preschool programs and services; and
- Board staff.
Transition from elementary school to Grade 8
The transition from elementary school to grade 8 is a time of celebration – new challenges and opportunities await for our students. To prepare for this transition, grade 8 SERTs meet with the elementary school team to discuss students’ strengths, needs, and future goals. This meeting is essential to ensure that an Individual Education Plan’s curriculum related goals, learning expectations, supports and accommodations are consistent with the actions documented in the transition plan. Parent(s) or guardian(s) are encouraged to participate in Grade 8 information sessions hosted by the receiving school to engage in discussion with the Special Education team, principal and vice-principals.
Successful entry to school planning involves sharing information and coordinating resources with the following team:
- Parents and/or guardians
- Providers of preschool programs and services; and
- Board staff.
Planning for Post Secondary and Beyond
Life beyond high school requires transition planning to look ahead to the future and prepare for adulthood. It is a coordinated partnership involving the student, parents or guardians, teachers, and depending on the post-secondary pathway, community agencies, adult service providers and post-secondary institutions. Consideration must be given to such things as:
- Living arrangements
- Post-secondary education opportunities
- Financial supports
- Community programs
- Employment services
- Health care, and
- Recreation and social activities
