Transition requirements & planning tools
Under federal and Massachusetts state law, potentially eligible toddlers must receive transition planning from Part C early intervention to Part B early childhood special education services. Planning must begin at least 90 days—and up to 9 months—before the child’s third birthday. If the child is eligible, they must start receiving Part B services based on their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) by their third birthday.
Requirements
Transition Part C to Part B in Massachusetts Timeline and Action Steps
This resource provides early intervention service (EIS) programs and local education agencies (LEAs) with a comprehensive timeline of required action steps to ensure compliance and a smooth transition from Part C to Part B services.
Late Eligibility and Late Referral to Part C
This guide helps EIS programs and LEAs with transition planning for children referred to early intervention close to their third birthday. It outlines specific compliance categories, timelines, and collaborative strategies to ensure timely enrollment into Part B services.
Planning tools
Transition Planning Toolkit
Early intervention service (EIS) programs, as well as school districts and local education agencies (LEA), can use this toolkit to plan a smooth transition from Part C to Part B services.
Early Childhood Transition Overview
This resource outlines federal regulations, state reporting requirements, and agency responsibilities to ensure compliance during the transition from Part C to Part B services. It clarifies the roles of EIS providers and school districts as well as highlights technical assistance tools to help local teams build an effective transition process.
Collaboration resources
Sample Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
Collaboration between early intervention and early childhood special education is critical to smooth transitions between Part C and Part B. This sample MOU can help EIS programs and LEAs set up procedures for a successful transition between Part C to Part B services.
Early Intervention to LEA Tracking Sheet Template
This spreadsheet is an optional tool that tracks individual child timelines, transition milestones, and action steps to maintain compliance and ensure a smooth transition from Part C to Part B services.
Provider voices
Across Massachusetts, EIS programs and LEAs are doing incredible work to support early childhood transition. Explore these resources and practices from your colleagues from across the state.