When developing postsecondary transition goals, which approach best supports the student's involvement and self-advocacy?

• A. Focusing on academic test scores as the sole determinant.
• B. Excluding the student from the goal-setting process.
• C. Involving the student in identifying learning strengths and needs.
• D. Relying only on parent input for goals.

Answer: (C)

Involving the student in identifying learning strengths and needs is key because transition goals should reflect the student’s own abilities, interests, and what supports they will need after high school. When students help identify what they’re good at and where they struggle, goals become meaningful, achievable steps, and they gain ownership over their plan—building self-advocacy and motivation to follow through. This approach also aligns with how effective transition planning works in practice: it centers the student’s voice and develops skills the student will use beyond graduation. The other approaches miss essential elements: focusing only on test scores ignores practical readiness and preferences; excluding the student removes their input and reduces buy-in; relying solely on parent input neglects the student’s perspective and self-knowledge.