Integrating College and Career Readiness into Transition Education

Abstract

This chapter discusses the importance of understanding and embedding college and career readiness (CCR) into existing transition services and transition education. Postschool outcomes for students with disabilities continue to fall below those of their peers without disabilities in terms of employment, postsecondary education, and independent living, despite an increase in the number of students with disabilities(SWD) attending college and the enactment of federal legislation and policy aimed at increasing outcomes. We propose embedding CCR into a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), with a focus on its relevance to transition services and an organizing framework to conceptualize CCR. Next, the chapter presents the level of empirical support for measuring CCR and then the practical implications for CCR within MTSS with specific examples of strategies within each tier. Finally, it concludes with a discussion of teacher expectations related to CCR for students with disabilities. Ultimately, this chapter should provide the reader with an understanding of CCR, relevant policies, and practical tips for implementation within general and special education.