RFK Community Alliance·Springfield, Massachusetts
The Transition Coordinator develops and implements individualized transition plans for high school students with diverse needs to prepare them for postsecondary education, employment, and independent living. This role involves coordinating community-based learning experiences, collaborating with families and clinicians, and supervising staff in vocational settings.
Robert F. Kennedy Academy is a therapeutic day school that serves students ages 10-21 with diverse abilities and unique needs, including social, emotional, and learning challenges.
RFKA creates individualized learning opportunities while establishing a community of learners. Students experience regular opportunities outside the school building in their community and in nature, where they discover who they are and what they care about with support from our dedicated staff. Our name reflects our belief in high expectations for our students, who have the potential to succeed in all facets of their education.
The Transition Coordinator supports high school students with diverse learning, developmental, behavioral, and social-emotional needs as they prepare for life after graduation. This role provides individualized transition planning, career and vocational development, postsecondary preparation, independent living instruction, and community-based experiences. Working collaboratively with students, families, school staff, clinicians, employers, and community partners, the Transition Coordinator helps students develop the skills, confidence, and resources needed to pursue employment, postsecondary education or training, independent living, and meaningful community participation. Key Responsibilities
Develop and implement individualized transition goals aligned with students’ IEPs and postsecondary plans.
Provide instruction and coaching in employment readiness, workplace behavior, communication, self-advocacy, independent living, financial literacy, and transportation.
Support students with career exploration, resumes, applications, interviews, college/trade-school research, and postsecondary planning.
Coordinate internships, job shadows, volunteer placements, employment opportunities, and community-based learning experiences.
Build and maintain partnerships with employers, vocational programs, community agencies, and educational institutions.
Provide on-site coaching and support while promoting student independence and safety.
Teach safe community access and public transportation skills.
Monitor student progress, collect data, and maintain transition documentation, portfolios, and progress reports.
Collaborate with families, school staff, clinicians, employers, and community providers to coordinate services and supports.
Participate in IEP and interdisciplinary meetings and advocate for appropriate opportunities and resources.
Supervise staff supporting students in vocational and community-based settings.
Candidates must have at least five years of experience working with adolescents or young adults with diverse needs and hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field. A master's degree and DESE licensure in Moderate Disabilities are preferred qualifications.
Market context
In Massachusetts, Transition Coordinator roles are typically tied to special education programs that support students with disabilities as they move toward postsecondary goals, so demand often centers on candidates who can coordinate services across school teams and community partners. This role is competitive because it requires DESE licensure in Moderate Disabilities (5–12) or a master’s in Special Education, plus three years of experience with social, emotional, and behavioral needs. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your licensure, transition-planning experience, and comfort with family collaboration before applying.
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