Lesson Plan

Post-Secondary Options Framework

Students will explore college, vocational, and community-based post-secondary options, compare their features, and create a personalized transition plan with clear next steps.

This lesson empowers 12th-grade special education students to make informed choices about life after graduation, building independence and confidence as they prepare for their future.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Step 1

Introduction & Objectives

5 minutes

Step 2

Presentation: Explore Options

15 minutes

Step 3

Activity: Compare Options

15 minutes

Step 4

Project: Create Your Transition Plan

20 minutes

Step 5

Review & Rubric Discussion

10 minutes

Step 6

Cool-Down: Next Step Pledge

5 minutes

Slide Deck

Beyond Graduation: Exploring Your Next Steps

Welcome everyone! Introduce today’s goals: explore post-secondary paths, compare options, and draft a transition plan. Ask each student to share one hope they have for life after graduation.

College Pathways

Explain the difference between 2-year and 4-year colleges. Highlight cost, program variety, and support services for students with IEPs.

Vocational & Technical Programs

Discuss vocational fields: show examples (automotive technology, culinary arts, cosmetology). Emphasize hands-on training and certification.

Community Supports & Resources

Introduce community supports: talk about agencies like VR, independent living classes, and recreational groups. Encourage students to list local resources they know.

Comparing Your Options

Demonstrate how to fill out the matrix. Walk through each column: cost, duration, supports, pros/cons. Encourage students to ask clarifying questions.

Creating Your Transition Plan

Model filling in one section of the template. Remind students to set realistic, measurable goals and identify who will support them.

Next Step Pledge

Distribute the pledge handout. Invite volunteers to read their pledges. Explain we’ll revisit these in future check-ins.