Family engagement in transition planning is an ongoing, collaborative practice that fosters two-way communication; embraces cultural responsiveness; and employs diverse training, participation, and feedback strategies. By prioritizing collaborative decision making between educators and families, the practice ensures that both students and families remain at the center, promoting a more effective, inclusive, and student and family-centered transition experience. The core components of Family Engagement in Transition Planning are: (A) Two-Way Communication, (B) Culturally Responsive Capacity Building, (C) Shared Decision Making, and (D) Cultivating Community Connections.

The Practice Profile translates the core components of meaningful family engagement in transition planning into observable educator practices that support professional learning, coaching, and implementation from kindergarten through school exit. The profile is an internal coaching resource intended to be used by technical assistance (TA) providers, coaches, etc.  

The Fidelity Tool follows. It enables teams to examine the extent to which the core components and practices of meaningful family engagement in transition planning are implemented, identify areas of strength and opportunities for growth, and inform continuous improvement efforts.

Together, these resources support continuous improvement in family engagement in transition planning practices across the educational continuum, ensuring families are meaningfully engaged from the earliest foundations of career development through preparation for postsecondary education, employment, and independent living. Teams administer the Family Engagement in Transition Planning Fidelity Tool to examine current practices, review fidelity data, identify priority areas for improvement, and use the practice profile to guide targeted coaching and action planning. Progress is monitored over time, and teams revisit the cycle to reflect on implementation, adjust supports, and continue improving family engagement in transition planning practices.

A glossary of key terms is provided at the end of the UI document. Terms included in the glossary are identified in bold text throughout the Family Engagement in Transition Planning UI. References supporting the development of both the Practice Profile and Fidelity Tool are also provided at the end of this document.