In South Carolina, Must IEPs Include Measurable Post-Secondary Goals Based on Age Appropriate Transition Assessments For Every 13-year-old Student?

Yes. All means all. Under 34 CFR Section 300.320(b), the IEP for each child with a disability, must, beginning not later than the first IEP to be in effect when the child turns 16 (in South Carolina beginning not later than the first IEP to be in effect when the child turns 13), or younger if determined appropriate by the IEP team, and updated annually thereafter, include:

1) appropriate measurable postsecondary goals based upon age appropriate transition assessments related to training, education, employment, and, where appropriate, independent living skills; and,

2) the transition services (including courses of study) needed to assist the child in reaching those goals.

Furthermore, postsecondary goals cannot use terms like "hopes to" or "aspires to" or "plans to". They must clearly state what the child "will do" upon graduation. Postsecondary goals must be updated regulary as career interests are likely to change over time.