Transition timelines from elementary to middle school, middle to high school, and postsecondary transitions are outlined here. Key planning steps are organized by time period, with suggested actions for families to help students prepare for a successful transition.
Elementary to Middle School
October–December (Fall of 5th Grade): Understand Your Path
Confirm the assigned school based on your address.
Meet with the current teacher or special education case manager.
Review the student’s strengths and needs.
Consider whether the neighborhood school is the right fit.
January–March (Spring of 5th Grade): Learn About the Middle School
Review the middle school website.
Attend school choice information nights.
Learn the bell schedule.
Explore electives, clubs, and other offerings.
Learn about special education supports.
Be aware of enrollment or application deadlines, if applicable.
March–May (Spring of 5th Grade): Participate in New School Events
Attend orientation or welcome nights.
Indicate preferred electives and additional courses when available.
Request a tour if needed.
Meet new staff members.
If needed, hold a transition meeting to review the IEP and the plan for the first weeks of school.
August of 6th Grade: Prepare for the Start of School
Complete required forms.
Set up transportation.
Apply for bussing if needed.
Complete special education bussing forms if applicable.
Check the bus schedule in the parent portal.
Check supply lists and organize materials.
Practice routines such as using a locker, following a schedule, and using a computer.
First Weeks of 6th Grade: Settle In and Communicate
Help your child learn the new schedule and routines.
Check in with the student about changes.
Stay in touch with the new school if concerns come up.
Middle to High School
October–December (Fall of 8th Grade): Understand Your School Path
Confirm the assigned school based on your address.
Meet with the current teacher or case manager.
Review the student’s strengths and needs.
Consider whether the neighborhood school is the right fit.
January–March (Spring of 8th Grade): Learn About the High School
Review the high school website.
Attend school choice information nights.
Learn the bell schedule.
Explore electives, clubs, and other offerings.
Learn about special education supports.
Be aware of enrollment or application deadlines, if applicable.
March–May (Spring of 8th Grade): Participate in New School Events
Attend orientation or welcome nights.
Indicate preferred electives and additional courses when available.
Request a tour if needed.
Meet new staff members.
If needed, hold a transition meeting to review the IEP and the plan for the first weeks of school.
August of 9th Grade: Prepare for the Start of School
Complete required forms.
Set up transportation.
Apply for bussing if needed.
Complete special education bussing forms if applicable.
Check the bus schedule in the parent portal.
Practice routines such as using a locker, following a schedule, and using a computer.
First Weeks of 9th Grade: Settle In and Communicate
Help your child learn the new schedule and routines.
Check in with the student about changes.
Stay in touch with the new school if concerns come up.
Topics to Discuss With Your Student’s New School
Use these topics to guide conversations as your student moves to a new school level. They can help families gather information whether a student is in general education, has an IEP, or has medical or mental health needs.
School overview and culture: Learn about the school’s expectations and community.
Daily routines and logistics: Discuss schedules, transportation and the school day.
Academic support and communication: Learn how to find help and communicate with teachers.
Social, emotional and behavioral support: Discuss available supports and your student’s needs.
Extracurricular activities and student life: Explore ways to participate and connect with peers.
Questions for students with IEPs: Discuss how the new school will support your student’s IEP.
Medical and health needs: Share information that will help the school support your student.
After enrollment: Plan how to check in once your student begins attending.
Postsecondary Transition – Bridges
Bridges supports students as they transition from school to the adult world. Find out more about this program on our Bridges page.