Planning with Pushpins

Roadmap to Success

planning for your future

How to use this site:

The following “Roadmap” was designed to provide a library of resources that will guide students, parents, and educators in planning appropriate services for individuals with disabilities living in Jones County, Georgia, and surrounding areas. This page will guide you from Elementary services to adulthood. Simply click each link to find resources on that specific topic.

Elementary School

To begin Elementary students should expect:

  • Developing an IEP for the student and encouraging student attendance and participation at IEP meetings.
  • Ensuring access to the general curriculum and development of functional skills related to the unique needs of the child
  • Developing self-determination skills as part of the curriculum.


Families may also apply for Family Support Services through DBHDD- Eligibility: Individuals age four (4) and up with a diagnosed developmental disability living ​in Georgia at home with their families, and are not currently receiving a NOW/COMP Waiver, are eligible for Family Support Services. Eligible diagnoses include, ​but are not limited to: Developmental Disability, Intellectual Disability, Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down Syndrome. Program funding is ​estimated around $2000-$3000 for Traditional Services and up to $4950 for Respite Services per Fiscal Year (Fiscal Year is currently 7.1.23-6.30.24). Family ​Support Coordinators work with families to develop Individualized Family Support Plans. Click this link to find the application for services and providers listed by ​county:


In addition, families can apply for Family Supports through Middle Flint Behavioral Healthcare (Middle Flint BHC): Additional financial support for families with ​children ages 3 and up who have developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. Funds can pay for Respite services, support for the family and more. More ​information at the following links:



The SOONER the BETTER to apply for Waivers & Funding!!

Between Elementary & Middle School

Apply for Medicaid: https://medicaid.georgia.gov/how-apply

  • If denied Medicaid/SSI due to income, apply for Katie Becket for assistance with medical services and other support for the ​individual


Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD)- (assists in services after high school, sometimes while ​still in school)


Helpful Resources for Medicaid Basics & Community-Based Waivers-


Middle School

The team will begin identifying post-school goals. Developing a transition plan by end of 8th grade year:

Discussing diploma requirements and review student status: Understand which academic path your child is on: alternative curriculum ​or general education diploma path. By middle school, the certificate/diploma path is determined for high school. Meet with your child’s ​teacher to understand exactly what type of diploma (alternative curriculum or general education curriculum diploma) will be received.

Understanding the Alternate Diploma-Click Here

Understanding Diploma Options: Click Here

Discussing requirements for getting into colleges or technical colleges. What course of study is needed for college entry.


As Early as Age 14

  • Parents can contact the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA) to start planning for their child’s college life or professional ​career: https://gvs.georgia.gov/about-us / https://gvs.georgia.gov/application-process
  • Sign Parent Permission Vocational Rehabilitation Form.
  • Get student involved in Pre-ETS services while in school: https://transitionta.org/topics/pre-ets/
  • Work with your child on their ability to communicate their personal information (name, DOB, address, number).
  • Identify which independent living skills you want your child to work on (i.e., personal finance skills, health care needs, daily living skills, etc.)
  • Begin discussing CTAE Pathways offered at your high school as well a possible long-term goals after high school.

High School

School should conduct initial transition planning meeting with student and parents before starting school if possible and provide referral to other ​agencies as appropriate:

  • Georgia Department of Labor
  • Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA)
  • Regional Boards Division of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
  • Technical College System of Georgia disability counselor
  • College/University, Disability Services Provider
  • Benefits planning assistance
  • Other agencies as IEP team determines appropriate


By the age of 16, your child should obtain a valid State ID:


Call the local DMV to discuss testing accommodations for the driver's license test. Some accommodations can be provided.

This affidavit is to be used by a vehicle owner to provide information regarding certain conditions which may interfere with their ability or an ​expected driver’s ability to communicate.

While in High School

  • School should be providing a series of career development activities.
  • Discussing the development and need for independent living skills.
  • Determining needs of the student necessary for successful graduation and establishing a definite graduation date. With an IEP, the individual ​can stay in school until they are 22 years old. Consider all these options between ages 18-22. The individual will exit at the end of the semester ​they turn 22.


Determine path after high school:


Obtaining a General Education High School Diploma and want to attend college after high school? Discuss school options and research ​admission requirements. Schedule an appointment with an admissions counselor to discuss requirements and placement exams:


Obtaining an Alternative Curriculum High School Diploma and want a college experience? Inclusive college programs across the state offer ​students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) a variety of experiences and opportunities for growth as they prepare for the next ​chapter of their lives:


Options for After High School

Attending the military after high school?


Schedule an appointment with a recruiter to discuss requirements. After the age of 14, having an IEP/504 could lead to a denial into the military. A ​waiver application must be filed with the recruiter to apply for entry:

  • Consider joining JROTC during high school
  • Prepare for ASVAB. No accommodations are given


Going to work after high school?


Competitive employment is when the individual secures a job on their own without assistance. Supportive employment is provided through ​community/state organizations to assist with job training and job placement:


Some examples of Supportive Employment Assistance Organizations-


Options for After High School, Continued...

Need a Day Center or Residential Care after high school?


Adult Day Care Centers are designed to provide care for older adults who need assistance/supervision during the day. Residential care provides ​accommodations, meals and personal care for people with disabilities:


Some examples of Day Centers & Residential Care Centers-


Age 17

Transfer of Rights-

Understand all rights are transferred to the individual at the age of 18. This includes educational, medical and financial records. The school system will always ​include parents in educational decisions, but ultimately the student will have the final say in his/her educational future unless a parent has legal guardianship.


Understanding Guardianship-

This should only be considered if the individual is not capable of making any decisions for themselves and can be proven through Probate Court. A petition is ​filed with the local Probate Court.

Petition for the Appointment of a Guardian and or Conservator for a Proposed Ward

As the parent/guardian, you will have to make the decision as to what you are looking for. If you need assistance with an attorney, you can reach out to ​Georgia Legal Services at 1-833-457-7529. Pro Bono legal aid can be found here https://www.georgialegalaid.org/


Alternatives to Guardianship-

These should be considered prior to considering guardianship. Guardianship should be the last resort. Developing self-advocacy and skills should be a ​priority.


Age 18


Last Year in High School

Students should have both these options on their Transition plan and decide which to pursue upon graduation:

  • Consider Option A: Employment (competitive or supported)
  • Consider Option B: Postsecondary education


With an IEP, the individual can stay in school until they are 22 years old. Determine whether the young adult will graduate or remain in ​school. Upon exiting:


  • If an individual has been approved for NOW/COMP waiver, call waiver liaison to give the exact date of graduation.
  • Contact Voc Rehab (VR) to transfer student to become a client. VR can assist with job training, job placement and education ​assistance.
  • Contact DHBDD (if denied VR) to assist with post-secondary supports for home care, respite care, and community based services.