Tips for Transitioning from School to Adult Disability Services

Leaving the school system can be one of the most overwhelming transitions for individuals with disabilities and their families. For years, school provided structure, routine, and built-in support. Then suddenly—it ends.

What comes next?

At Rolling Hills Progress Center, we walk alongside families as they navigate this major shift. Whether a student is preparing for graduation at 18 or aging out at 22, there are steps you can take now to build a bridge into adulthood—not a cliff.

Here are our top tips for making the transition from school-based services to adult disability support as smooth and empowering as possible.

1. Start Early—Even Before High School Ends

Many families wait until the final year of school to explore adult services, but early planning makes a huge difference. If your child has an Individualized Education Program (IEP), transition planning should begin by age 14.

What to do:

• Attend IEP meetings focused on post-school outcomes

• Ask about community-based work experience or life skills programs

• Visit adult service providers like Rolling Hills to explore options

• Learn the eligibility requirements for programs before graduation
  

Pro tip: You can tour Rolling Hills before your child exits school—and we’ll help build a personalized plan well before that final bell rings.

2. Understand the Differences Between School and Adult Services

Public school services are mandated under federal law (IDEA), but adult services are eligibility-based and often provided through state programs or nonprofits. This shift in how services are accessed can be a surprise.

What to do:

• Connect with your local Department of Human Services

• Learn about Medicaid Waivers or funding eligibility

• Ask your school transition coordinator about adult service referrals

• Contact Rolling Hills—we help families understand what's available and how to qualify
  

3. Focus on Building Daily Living and Social Skills

Academic learning often takes priority in school, but in adult life, daily routines, emotional regulation, and social engagement are just as important. These skills support independence and open the door to vocational opportunities.

What we do at Rolling Hills:

• Teach participants how to manage hygiene, cook simple meals, follow a schedule, and take care of personal needs

• Provide real-time practice with group work, friendships, and conflict resolution

• Offer community outings to build confidence navigating everyday environments
  

4. Explore Supported Employment & Vocational Training

Not every person leaving school is ready—or interested—in traditional employment. That’s why we offer on-site businesses, volunteer opportunities, and gradual job training programs to meet individuals where they are.

Participants at Rolling Hills:

• Learn through hands-on, supported job experiences

• Receive coaching to build soft skills like communication and time management

• Discover personal interests and goals in a low-pressure environment
  

5. Keep Communication Open—With Providers and Your Young Adult

This transition is personal. It involves emotions, expectations, fears, and hopes. The more openly you talk about what’s working, what’s not, and what matters most, the better your support team can guide the process.

What we encourage:

• Family involvement during intake, planning, and check-ins

• Input from the individual to shape their goals

• Shared decision-making—because ownership builds buy-in
  

We’re Here When You’re Ready

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. At Rolling Hills Progress Center, we specialize in helping families build bridges from school to adult life—one step at a time.

Whether your child is 16 or 22, we’ll help you explore services, create structure, and discover what’s possible.

FAQ: Transition Planning

When should we start looking at adult programs? As early as possible. Many families begin planning around age 16, with referrals and tours happening in the final years of school.

Does Rolling Hills work with school systems during transition? Yes! We welcome collaboration with teachers, coordinators, and therapists to ensure a smooth handoff.

Is there a waitlist for services? It depends on the program and funding availability. We recommend reaching out early so we can guide you through options and paperwork.

Do you offer full-day services after school ends? Yes, we offer structured day programming that includes life skills, job training, social engagement, and community involvement.