Resources to help families prepare for transitions between schools and stages.

Preschool → Elementary School:
The transition into elementary school can involve new routines, classroom expectations, support teams, and services. Families may find it helpful to understand what information will transfer with their child, who their school contacts will be, and what questions to ask before the school year begins.
Helpful for: Families preparing for a child to enter elementary school.

Elementary → Middle School:
Moving to middle school often brings changes in schedules, teachers, independence, organization, and expectations. Preparing ahead can help families understand how supports may look different and what resources are available as students become more independent.
Helpful for: Families preparing for the transition from elementary to middle school.

Middle School → Ridgefield High School:
The transition to high school can bring changes in schedules, course expectations, support structures, case management, and student independence. Understanding what to expect and knowing what questions to ask can help families feel more prepared.
Helpful for: Families with students preparing to enter Ridgefield High School.

High School → Postsecondary:
Transition planning becomes increasingly important as students move through high school. Families may begin exploring options related to college, vocational or training programs, employment, independent living, community supports, and adult services.
Helpful for: Families beginning to plan for life after high school.

Helpful Resources

Ridgefield Public Schools – Special Education Services
Official district information, transition resources, parent guides, PPT materials, and the Ridgefield Transition Program.

Connecticut State Department of Education – Resources for Families
Statewide parent resources covering PPT meetings, evaluations, transition assessments, and planning for life after high school.

Connecticut Secondary Transition – Resources for Students and Families
Information on postsecondary planning, employment, adult services, assistive technology, and transition supports.

Easing Into Secondary Transition
A Connecticut guide to agencies, services, and resources that support students with disabilities as they prepare for adult life.

PACER Center
Provides information and tools for families of children and young adults with disabilities, including resources on transition planning, postsecondary education, employment, independent living, self-advocacy, and accommodations in college.

Think College
Provides resources about inclusive college opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities, including information on preparing for college, finding programs, comparing options, and understanding the transition from high school to postsecondary education.