Involvement of the young person in transition planning

This chapter focuses on the involvement of the young person in transition planning. A good transition plan is one that is person-focused and includes personal development in academic skills, social and emotional skills, employment skills, and other related areas. A synthesis of current research on the involvement of incarcerated youth in transition planning and person-focused and personal development strategies to promote positive transition outcomes are outlined. While the strategies and information presented in this chapter are relevant to all young people in a variety of transitions, the focus is primarily on transition from incarceration to school, as many incarcerated young people are of mandatory school age during their period of incarceration. The education and transition planning they receive “behind the fence”, as well as when they return to the community, is important in enhancing positive life outcomes through skill development and self-determination.