By Yan Zhou – SEAC Member, Parent, and Advocate for Exceptional Learners
Introduction
Transition meetings play a vital role in supporting students as they move from Kindergarten to Grade One or shift between programs or classrooms within the York Catholic District School Board (YCDSB). For students with exceptionalities, these meetings are especially important to ensure their learning needs and accommodations are clearly communicated.
As a YCDSB SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee) member and a parent, I’ve been part of this process and want to share practical tips that helped me prepare—so that other families feel informed, confident, and empowered.
1. Understand the Purpose of the Transition Meeting
A transition meeting is typically held before the new school year begins. It helps ensure the receiving teacher, special education staff, and support team are aware of a student’s strengths, needs, and the accommodations in place.
If a student has an Individual Education Plan (IEP), this meeting reinforces how those supports will be used in practice from day one.
2. Review the IEP and OSR Ahead of Time
It’s important for parents to review the student’s IEP and OSR (Ontario Student Record) in advance. These documents often include recommendations from past assessments or professional reports that should guide the classroom experience.
A helpful question to ask during the meeting:
🗨️ “Have you had a chance to review the IEP and OSR yet?”
This keeps the focus constructive while supporting a shared understanding.
3. Ask About Differentiated Instruction
Most YCDSB teachers use differentiated instruction—adapting content and teaching methods to meet different student needs and learning styles.
During the meeting, you can ask:
🗨️ “What does differentiated instruction look like in your classroom?”
This opens a meaningful discussion on how the classroom will adapt to support your child.
4. Follow Up on Social-Emotional Support
If your child receives Core Support or social skills instruction, it’s important to ask how those strategies will be reinforced during regular classroom activities.
You might ask:
🗨️ “How will social-emotional skills be supported throughout the school day?”
🗨️ “Are there natural opportunities for these skills to be practiced and encouraged?”
Ensuring consistency in how support is delivered makes a big difference.
5. Include the Right People in the Meeting
In some cases, board-level support staff may be invited to join the transition meeting. Their input can be valuable in ensuring long-term needs are considered and supports are aligned with broader YCDSB strategies.
Parents are encouraged to ask whether a resource consultant or board representative might attend, especially when a student has more complex needs.
6. Keep the Door Open for Collaboration—Without Pressure
Educators are often stretched thin, so it’s important to approach the meeting with kindness and collaboration. As a SEAC member and engaged parent, I often say:
🗨️ “If there’s ever a natural opportunity to collaborate or support, I’d be happy to help.”
This keeps the relationship open while respecting everyone’s time and responsibilities.
Conclusion: Empowering Families Through Preparation
Transition meetings aren’t just procedural—they’re powerful tools for creating a smooth start and strong partnerships between home and school. With preparation, clear questions, and a collaborative tone, families can advocate effectively for their child’s success.
As a parent and community advocate, I believe that when we empower families with practical guidance, everyone wins—especially our children.
Yan Zhou on Catholic Education & Advocacy 
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