This memorandum is to inform you that the New York State Education Department has developed the attached policy brief, Transition Planning and Services for Students with Disabilities, to remind Committees on Special Education and school districts of their specific responsibilities under federal and State law and regulations to provide appropriate transition planning and services for students with disabilities. This guidance also identifies technical assistance resources available to assist school districts, students, and families in the transition planning process.

Additionally, in January 2017, the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services of the United States Department of Education issued A Transition Guide to Postsecondary Education and Employment for Students and Youth with Disabilities to ensure that all students and youth with disabilities are equipped with the skills and knowledge to be engaged in the 21^st Century workforce and to facilitate a seamless transition from school to post-school activities.

Schools are strongly encouraged to use the guidance and resources provided in these documents to assist them in meeting their responsibilities relating to transition planning and services for students with disabilities.

Questions regarding this memorandum may be directed to speced@nysed.gov, the Special Education Policy Unit at (518) 473-2878, or the Program Development and Support Services Unit at (518) 486-7462.