Too often in the past, planning for students was something that was done to them or for them.  With the new transition legislation, efforts are to be made to include the individual with disabilities in the decision making process.  After all, it is his future.

It is also hoped that this involvement will result in better long term outcomes, if only because the individual with disabilities is involved in the decision making.  Imagine if a group of individuals got together to determine what your work will be or where you will live, or where you will go to school.  You might rebel against these decisions even if you agreed with them because you weren't a part of the process.  We must do all we can to solicit the input of our students relative to their futures.

One program which has worked toward the goal of client decision making, is person centered planning.  A list of key components of the process is provided below followed by some good web site links.  Whether you work with individuals with mild, moderate or severe disabilities, the principles behind person centered planning are applicable.  They will give you insight into ways in which you can reflect student preferences in your transition planning.

"Person Centered Planning is a simple idea, and that is the notion that the goal of services to assist a consumers in achieving the goals of interest to them.  From this basic notion, come several key elements:

1. The person's activities, services, and supports are based upon his or her dreams, interests, and preferences, strengths and capacities. 

2. The person and people important to him or her are included in lifestyle planning, and have the opportunity to exercise control and make informed decisions.

3. The person has meaningful choices and can make decisions based on his or her expectations.

4. The person uses, when possible, natural and generic supports first.

5. Activities, supports and services foster community inclusion, dignity and respect.

6. The person's opportunities and experiences are maximized and flexibility is enhanced within existing regulators and funding constraints.

7. Planning is collaborative, recurring, and involves and ongoing commitment to the person.

8. The person is satisfied with his or her activities, supports and services."

(copied from Finger Lakes DDSO Family Forum Training Handout)

Person Centered Planning

Focus on Severe Disabilities - Person Centered Planning

Person-Centered Planning: Maps and Paths to the Future

You can email Dr. McNair at jmcnair@calbaptist.edu

Copyright Jeff McNair/jeffmcnair.com