Transition Policies, Practices, and Promises: Lessons from Three States

A policy study conducted from 1992 to 1994 investigated how three states have implemented transition services for youth with disabilities. The three states were identified as exemplary in their achievements related to designing and implementing transition policies and services. A research team reviewed relevant documents and conducted approximately 74 interviews with key policymakers and implementors. Qualitative data analysis procedures were used to develop a case study report for each site; a cross-case analysis compared policies and practices across the three states. The analysis found seven themes which were identified as contributing to the successful initiation and continuation of transition policies, practices, and services.