Earlier transition services for students with disabilities approved

Nebraska public schools will provide transition services to each student with a developmental disability two years sooner under a bill passed by lawmakers May 19.

Schools are required to provide a coordinated set of activities that help prepare qualified students for life after high school — including postsecondary education, vocational training, integrated employment, continuing and adult education, adult services, independent living and community participation.

Under LB527, sponsored by Fremont Sen. Lynne Walz, schools will provide transition services to those students beginning when they turn 14 rather than 16.

The bill passed on a vote of 48-0.