CBC News Story – How some students with disabilities avoid the ‘transition cliff’ after high school Ending school is ‘potentially a time of crisis,’ says expert

About the role

Transition programs for youth with disabilities are generally considered a responsibility of schools, according to Rachelle Hole, a UBC Okanagan professor of social work and co-director of the Canadian Institute for Inclusion and Citizenship. However, since these programs are not mandated by every province or territory’s Ministry of Education, efforts are often left to individual school districts or inclusive education teachers.

Limited funding means some programs can only accommodate a limited number of participants. Due to what Hole describes as a “patchwork approach” across regions, many families face a “transition cliff” if they’re unable to access support to bridge the gap. Despite these challenges, Hole highlights “pockets of excellence” across Canada, where organizations, community groups, and advocates successfully help youth with disabilities navigate this milestone.