What strategy is most effective for school counselors to increase college attendance among students with IEPs?

Collaborating with transition services staff is an effective strategy for school counselors to increase college attendance among students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) because it creates a comprehensive support system tailored to the unique needs of these students. Transition services staff are typically trained in helping students with disabilities plan their post-secondary education and career paths, ensuring that they have access to appropriate resources and guidance.

This collaboration allows school counselors to effectively inform students about college opportunities tailored to their strengths and interests while also addressing any obstacles that might arise specifically for students with IEPs. Transition services often include a variety of supports such as skill development in self-advocacy, understanding accommodations in college, and navigating financial aid, which are crucial for fostering a smooth transition to higher education.

In contrast, providing individual counseling sessions, while beneficial for personal development, may not offer the comprehensive support needed to tackle the complex transition to college. After-school tutoring programs mainly focus on academic performance and may not directly address the social, emotional, or administrative challenges faced by students with IEPs. Similarly, a mentorship program could provide helpful guidance but may lack the structured support and formal connections with local colleges and universities that transition services personnel can provide, making direct collaboration with these specialists the most effective approach.