Autism Labs: Transition Programming in Round Rock School District

This episode features representatives from Round Rock School District, one of the larger school districts in the greater Austin, Texas area. The discussion centers on transition programming for students with autism and developmental disabilities, led by Patti Cole, a transition teacher, and Will Renfro, the transition coordinator for the district.

Round Rock's transition program currently serves over 70 students at different support levels. Approximately 15 of these students have higher-level support needs and are in the 18+ program, while the remaining students work on living skills and work skills, with some holding paid employment positions in the community.

Key recommendations for parents entering transition include: (1) getting on Medicaid waiver lists early, such as HCS, Bluebonnet Trails, and Integral Care, as younger enrollment leads to faster access to financial resources; (2) collaborating with school parent liaisons and educating oneself about available programs such as day habilitation services and transition fairs; and (3) developing partnership-based relationships with teachers and school districts rather than adversarial approaches.

The episode emphasizes that behavior often communicates student needs and that discovering hidden potential through consistent, appropriate environmental modifications—such as offering choices, physical activity, and modified expectations—can significantly improve outcomes. Additionally, starting transition planning conversations early, ideally before age 14, helps families better prepare for adulthood.

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