Description:

The transition from school to adulthood is often described by families and professionals as a daunting leap into the unknown. Drawing from her dissertation research, Traversing the Transition Abyss: Examining Lived Experiences of the Transition to Adulthood Process for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, Dr. Samantha Bear will share key findings on the systemic barriers, challenges, and opportunities faced by youth with IDD, their families, and educators. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how lived experiences shed light on the “transition abyss” that occurs despite the presence of evidence-based practices. This webinar will move beyond research into action by offering person-centered, holistic, and evidence-based strategies for strengthening transition planning. Attendees will leave with practical tools to foster student voice, promote independence, and create meaningful pathways to adulthood that honor the whole person. Designed for parents, educators, and professionals alike, this session will inspire collaboration and empower participants to bridge the gap between policy, practice, and lived experience.

Presenter:

Samantha J. Bear, over the past decade and a half, has focused on inclusive education, postsecondary transition, disability justice, and the development of innovative community-based programming for all disabilities, specializing in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). With a foundation in special education and international higher education, her work spans K–12 classrooms, higher education programs, and nonprofit leadership. Samantha’s scholarship and professional practice are centered on equity, global best practices in transition, and reimagining adulthood for people with IDD through meaningful community connection, person centered planning and self-determination, and holistic well-being. Since 2021, Samantha has served as Executive Director of Blossom IDD, a nonprofit in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin.

Learning Objectives:  

• Understand the “transition abyss”: Learn how systemic gaps and barriers affect students with IDD and their families during the shift from school to adulthood.
• Apply person-centered planning: Discover strategies to elevate student voice, choice, and self-determination in IEP transition planning.
• Embrace holistic approaches: Explore evidence-based practices that integrate academic, social-emotional, physical, and independent living skills for whole-person success.
• Turn research into action: Walk away with practical tools and resources to strengthen collaboration among families, educators, and professionals.