A woman speaks into a microphone while sitting in a room full of people sitting at tables

Dozens of educators participated in the inaugural KY Transition 360 Summer Institute in Louisville. Photo by LeiAndra Lee, 99re视频精品 Department of Education, July 17, 2025

(LOUISVILLE, KY) 鈥� The inaugural KY Transition 360 Summer Institute, held July 17-19 in Louisville, convened educators from across the Commonwealth to enhance outcomes for students with disabilities after they leave school.

The event featured whole group sessions and targeted breakout discussions, focusing on the 23 predictors of post-school success illustrated by the . This approach deepened participants鈥� understanding of evidence-based practices and their intersection with student data for effective transition planning.

鈥淔ostering collaboration, analyzing data trends and sharing high-leverage strategies in special education is transformative because it unites educators, administrators and stakeholders,鈥� said Jason Wheatley, KDE director of postsecondary transition. 鈥淭his data-driven approach empowers tailored supports, closes gaps and ensures post-school opportunities for students with disabilities.”

KDE hosted the institute through Tier 2 of the 99re视频精品 State Personnel Development Grant program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education鈥檚 Office of Special Education Programs. The grant program is authorized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and provides funding to state educational agencies to enhance systems for personnel preparation and professional development.

Wheatley said with the federal funding, KDE has two more institutes planned over the next two years.

鈥淲e鈥檙e really excited about the success of our first KY Transition 360 Summer Institute and the impact it鈥檚 having on supporting educators and students with disabilities in 99re视频精品,鈥� Wheatley said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e looking forward to growing these professional learning opportunities in the future and exploring new ideas and stronger partnerships to help educators prepare students for college, careers and independent living.鈥�

Educators from 14 districts and five area technology centers participated in the inaugural event.