2026 Virtual Transition Conference

Speakers:

• David Mank, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus, Indiana University
• Alison DeYoung, MA, Senior Training & Technical Assistance Manager, Wise

Keynote Description:

The transition from school to work for young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) is more than a milestone, it is a defining moment that determines whether opportunity is realized or limited.

In this keynote, Dr. David Mank challenges us to rethink what is possible and what is expected. This thought-provoking conversation will explore how early, intentional transition planning, paired with strong policy and cross-system collaboration, can ensure that every young person leaves school with a clear pathway to competitive, integrated employment.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand why early, expectation-driven transition planning is essential to achieving competitive integrated employment outcomes.
• Examine key state and national policies that shape and accelerate systems change
• Identify the core elements of effective, student-centered and outcome-focused transition practices
• Learn actionable strategies to move from compliance to impact in school-to-work efforts

Speakers:

• Sarah Adams, Assistant Director, LifeCourse Nexus at UMKC Institute for Human Development

Session Description:

Transition is often framed as the move from school to adulthood, but it is truly a lifelong process. Individuals and families navigate ongoing transitions — entering school, pursuing careers, living independently, building relationships, and aging — each shaped by experiences, opportunities, and supports over time.

This session introduces a lifespan approach to transition, shifting the focus from a single milestone to evolving goals and needs. Using concepts from the Charting the LifeCourse Framework, attendees will explore practical strategies for planning, problem-solving, and supporting individuals across life stages. Real-world examples will highlight ways to strengthen support networks and build a more forward-thinking, person-centered path toward a meaningful life.

Key Takeaways:

• Transition is a lifelong process, not just the move from school to adulthood
• Life experiences, opportunities, and supports influence transitions over time
• Individuals and families experience multiple transitions across life stages (education, employment, independence, relationships, aging)
• Concepts from the Charting the LifeCourse Framework guide exploration, problem-solving, and planning
• Focus on building support networks and identifying resources to sustain long-term progress

Speakers:

• Colleen Thoma, Ph.D, Emeritus Professor, Virginia Commonwealth University

Session Description:

This session introduces participants to the core components of the Universal Design for Transition (UDT) framework. Through case studies, participants will explore how UDT can be applied to strengthen student self-determination, enhance instructional methods, and promote collaboration, particularly in transition domains such as community living and participation.

Key Takeaways:

• Gain an understanding of how UDT builds upon Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles to connect academic and transition goals;
• Identify transition goals that are embedded within academic standards;
• Recognize opportunities for collaboration to strengthen transition goals for students with disabilities;
• Examine strategies within the UDT framework to overcome systemic and community barriers, and improve transition outcomes for youth with significant support needs.

Speakers:

• Therese Curran, MA, Regional Transition Coordinator, West Bay Collaborative
• Laura Owens, Ph.D., President, TransCen, Inc.

Session Description:

Designing meaningful transition plans for students with complex needs starts with the right assessment strategies. This session will explore practical, evidence-based approaches that turn data and student voice into actionable next steps. Through real-world examples and ready-to-use tools, participants will learn how to create person-centered, culturally responsive assessments that drive stronger educational planning, promote self-determination, and lead to more successful postsecondary outcomes. Walk away with strategies you can immediately apply to better support students and collaborate more effectively with families and community partners.

Key Takeaways:

• Transition assessments should use practical, flexible tools that are customized to each student’s unique needs, strengths, and goals.
• Collaboration among educators, families, and community agencies is essential to creating a holistic transition assessment process.
• Supporting students with complex needs to actively engage in transition planning helps build their independence, fosters self-determination, and self-advocacy skills.
• Transition assessments play a critical role in guiding educational planning, promoting self-determination, and ensuring a successful post-secondary journey.

Speakers:

• Jill Thomas, Transition Coordinator, Pewaukee School District
• Malisa Schmidt, Transition Employment Specialist, Madison Metropolitan School District
• Sara Murphy, Training Associate, TransCen, Inc.

Session Description:

Too often, employment is seen as an unrealistic outcome for students with complex support needs. This session challenges that belief and seeks to explore how to move beyond low expectations and build every student’s potential for employment.

Employment isn’t just possible, it should be expected. Participants will learn how to establish an early employment mindset and use strategies such as strength-based assessments, work-based learning, customized employment, and assistive technology. Presenters will share real-world examples and field-tested methods for preparing students with more complex needs for
employment. Join us to learn how to build confidence, critical work skills, and prepare your students for a meaningful post-school life — one that includes employment.