Transitioning a student from elementary school to middle school can be a challenging task and emotionally charged time.
When an IEP comes into play, there can be even more challenges as the expectations for greater independence are given by the school, but parents are used to the more intensive approach in the elementary grades.
The tips, tricks, and insights below may help make that transition a bit easier for all involved.
Creating a Smooth Transition from Elementary to Middle School
Invite the Middle School Special Educator
When you’re holding a transition meeting, invite the special educator from the middle school who will be working with the student the following year. This gives the parents a face to match a name and can reassure them that their child will still receive quality services and care the following year. It also gives them a chance to ask questions to someone who is currently in the middle school setting so that they can get a better idea of what will happen in the fall.
Re-evaluate Accommodations
The accommodations that the student currently has are great for the elementary school setting, but they may not be appropriate for the middle school building.
Consider the new environment (lockers, changing classes, elevators, etc.) that the student will be navigating and how new and different accommodations might be able to address those scenarios.
Get the Student Involved
While it’s great to have a conversation with the new special educator from the middle school setting, it’s equally as important that the child learn how to start advocating at this point (if they haven’t done so already). Have them present a small slideshow or poster of the hobbies, interests, and important things that they want others to know about them.
It gives the new teacher a chance to get to know the child and helps to build the rapport that will be so important in the middle school setting.
Let the Middle School Special Educators Give Input
When you’re transitioning a child from elementary to middle school it is important to understand how the middle school special ed setting and the process differs from the elementary setting. Collaborate with middle school special ed staff to determine appropriate goals and accommodations based upon the new setting.
They should be the guide for how the new IEP looks as they have the most experience with what works and what doesn’t work in the middle school setting.
Communication is Key
As with all things in special education and teaching in general, communication is key. Create an open line of communication between the elementary and middle school special education departments. Make sure that elementary special ed teachers know what the reality of the middle school setting actually is.
Invite the middle school educators to visit the elementary classroom so they know what type of supports and services their new students are getting.
Don’t feel confident in transitioning your students from elementary to middle school? We have you covered! Inside The Intentional IEP Membership is a complete training on transitioning students to help them be successful. It guides you through the process and helps you prepare them and their IEPs for the next grade. If you’re a member, find the training in your portal. If you’re not, JOIN TODAY!
When everyone works together, it can create a smooth and easy transition for students and families. Remember, the priority is always the child’s success in the new setting.
Writing the IEP is only one part of managing it. The Intentional IEP System helps special education teachers manage the work before, during, and after the meeting—from baselines and goals to timelines, implementation, progress monitoring, and everything in between. Instead of piecing together another resource every time something comes up, you’ll have one educator-led system designed to help you know what to do, have what you need, and know what’s next. See how The Intentional IEP System works →