High School Transition Planning for Autistic Students in Ontario

Policy/Program Memorandum 156 (PPM 156) requires that every IEP for a student with an exceptionality who is 14 years of age or older (or in Grade 9) must include a transition plan. The plan must address the student's goals for post-secondary education, employment, and community living. It must be developed in consultation with the student, parents, and relevant community agencies.

The transition plan should include specific goals, timelines, actions, and the persons responsible. For autistic students, this may include referrals to Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) for adult services, applications for ODSP, exploration of post-secondary education with accessibility services, employment readiness programs, and connections to community support agencies.

At age 18, autistic individuals in Ontario may apply for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) for income support and the Passport Program for community participation funding. The Passport Program provides funding for community activities, social skills development, and respite. Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the access point for adult developmental services and should be contacted well before the student's 18th birthday.

Autistic students can remain in school until age 21 if they have not completed the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC). This extended time can be used for transition preparation, cooperative education placements, and life skills development. School boards should support families in navigating the transition to adult services during this period.