Division of Neurodevelopmental and Behavioral Pediatrics

Institute for Innovative Transition

Policy Initiatives

Our policy initiatives are designed to work in partnership with local and state agencies to review current and future policies that have an effect on transition age youth and young adults and their families in New York State. Through our current collaborations with local adult agencies, school districts, New York State Education Department, the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, the Golisano Foundation, and other community collaborators, we are hopeful that new partnerships are formed and the transition process continues to improve for families and young adults with developmental disabilities. The following are two important documents that have been key to informing our policy initiatives.

In the Balance: Successfully Transitioning to a Meaningful Adult Life
In 2006, a report developed by the Advocacy Center and funded by the Golisano Foundation was shared with the community describing the transition process for students with developmental disabilities. The report addressed transition services for students with developmental disabilities and their families.

Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between New York State Education Department and the Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities
In 1992, this MOU was developed to aid in local school district, Developmental Disability Services Office and state agency collaborations regarding students with developmental disabilities who are transition age.