Effective communication is the foundation of successful transition planning. The Indiana Secondary Transition Resource Center (INSTRC)’s Seamless Transition Pilot found that clear, consistent, and collaborative communication among transition teams, students, and families was one of the most critical factors for success.
INSTRC spent two years gathering data from regions around the state through family interviews and interagency team focus groups. Both the families and teams identified that effective element communication strengthens trust and meets the expectations of families for each team member.
Below we’ve included a few important points to keep in mind:
- Every team member has valuable input—communicate that point early.
- Students and parents/caregivers must be equally contributing members of the transition team.
- Start transition communication early. The more engaged students and families are in transition planning, the better prepared they will be for transitions into adulthood.
- Advocacy is crucial for navigating complex systems. Help students and families understand and access the essential services and resources they need.
Effective communication is not a one-way street, like a quick note or email update. It should be an ongoing dialogue that fosters learning, builds trust, and collaborates toward meaningful outcomes. Good communication is intentional and inclusive. Some opportunities for clear, consistent, and reciprocal communication might include the following:
- Student-centered communication through student-led IEP meetings.
- Family-centered communication through family interviews and partnerships.
- Interagency collaborative communication through consistent and inclusive team updates by:
- Sharing success stories.
- Using a visual progress tracker through student portfolios, highlighting each success.
INSTRC provides a toolbox of resources to support effective communication. The FranklinCovey Blog suggests 8 Communication Strategies you can practice for clarity, preparation, nonverbal cues, tone, active listening, interpersonal skills, audience awareness, and overcoming barriers.
Bonus Tips:
The “Transition IEP Knowledge to Portfolio Application" webinar series is only a week away! A series of 6 focused 90-minute virtual trainings. Learn how each section of the Transition IEP seamlessly connects with a quality Transition Portfolio. This training is designed for the entire student transition team: special education educators, coordinators, and administrators; employment professionals and agencies; and family members.
What to expect:
- Focused Learning: Each session targets a specific area: Present Levels, Postsecondary Goals, Transition Services, and more.
- Immediate Support: Our sessions include breakout rooms where you can ask specific questions and get one-on-one support in needed areas.
Starting Wednesday, October 22, 2025! Each session costs $35 and runs from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.