Developing a Vision

A “Vision” for a young person’s future after high school is based on that person’s interests, aspirations and dreams. It is helpful to start thinking and developing a realistic Vision for the future during the teen years. Parents, siblings, teachers, friends, and other interested parties can help and support the young person to develop a Vision.

It is important that goals, objectives, and strategies developed on the Individualized Education Program (IEP) during later school years support the Vision. The Vision is a starting point and can be revised over time.

Things to consider when developing a vision

List the person’s strengths, interests, and accomplishments.

COMMUNICATION

• What is the person’s communication style?

• How does the person respond in social, familiar, and unfamiliar situations?

• Does the person use technology or an assistive device to communicate?

• How does the person respond to changes in routine?

HOME

• Where will the person live?

• With family, in shared living, with a housemate, in a house or apartment?

• What would be the ideal living arrangement?

• Would an urban, suburban, or rural setting be preferred?

• Should the environment be lively, quiet, or predictable?

• What supports are needed and what resources are available?

• Does the person use or need any equipment to be successful?

• Do medical factors play an important role?

DAY

• What does the person want to do after graduation?

• Where does the person want to work?

• What work schedule is possible?

• What would an ideal day look like?

COMMUNITY

• What does the person like to do for fun?

• Where, with whom, and how often will the person go to restaurants, hairdresser/barber, grocery store, library, clubs, parks, museums, etc.?

• What does the person do on weekends and other periods of free time?

• What opportunities are there to connect with the community through volunteering, clubs, gyms, and other local activities?

TRANSPORTATION

• How will the person get from place to place?

• Can the person walk, take the bus or public transportation, use ADA transportation, ride with family or friends?

RELATIONSHIPS

• Who are the person’s friends?

• What relationships could be strengthened?

• Where will the person socialize and meet new people?

These are just a few questions to get started. The Vision will be developed over time as more questions about the future are asked and answered. When beginning to implement the Vision, the team should consider personal resources and networks, community opportunities, and public benefits in order to bring the Vision to life.