Richardson Independent School District Transition Program

Richardson Independent School District is committed to preparing all students for adult life in an inclusive and age appropriate setting.  RISD Transition Program staff work in collaboration with students and their families to develop transitional plans and activities for students age 18 to 22 who have developmental disabilities.  The goals of the program is to work with businesses, community leaders, the community college and adult agencies to help students graduate with a better quality of life in the areas of employment, independent living, personal recreation, adult education and community involvement.

Family involvement is paramount in the planning for this program.  Parents and students participate in the planning so that the student’s outcomes reflect the family values, interests and needs.  Families and students learn to use community resources rather than depending on school district entitlement programs.  As a team, teachers, parents and others who have an interest in the adult student, help the student become increasingly independent in daily life activities.  By defining goals and planning strategies, activities are arranged to meet the adult student’s individual needs and desires for independent and interdependent living.  The result is that when the individual reaches age 22, and RISD Transition Program services terminate, the student has a solid foundation within the community and has developed the skills necessary to continue living as an independent adult.

All students in the Transition Program are working toward the goal of paid employment in a position that utilizes their strengths.  Some students who have experienced extensive vocational training are prepared for competitive employment as they enter the Transition Program.  The begin applying for paid jobs and receive help through the supportive employment program.   Others work towards this goal by developing their skills through internships and volunteer positions.  In all cases, the transition staff will support students at job sites by teaching skills needed to be successful and providing ongoing support.  The Transition Program staff, along with area businesses, work together with students and their families to increase opportunities for career exploration and advancement in the workplace.

Although the students who choose to participate in the Transition Program earned their academic credits for graduation, some students have a desire to continue participating in organized instruction.  This programming is provided at various settings including tutoring and classes at the Parks and Recreation Department and Richland Community College.  Through our partnership with Richland Community College Disabilities Services, transition students have the opportunity to audit one college course per semester.  Students may choose to take classes that enhance social, vocational or recreation /leisure skills or take a continuing education class.  The transition instructors work jointly with the college professors to support the students in or out of class and make appropriate accommodations and adaptations for each transition.