The School-Community Transition in Puerto Rico: Perceptions of Adapted Physical Education Teachers

Abstract

This study aimed to determine the perception of adapted physical education teachers perceptions on the effectiveness of the school-to-community transition process for students with disabilities in Puerto Rico. 71 teachers completed an open-ended questionnaire validated by a group of experts. Results showed that the majority of adapted physical education teachers in Puerto Rico do not plan for transition and they consider these services and processes to be inadequate. Data analysis uncovered three recurring themes: (a) lack of transitions services knowledge and training, (b) inadequate transition planning, and (c) ineffectiveness of transition services. It seems clear that there is a need to provide professional development opportunities and clearer guidelines on transition planning and implementation to all adapted physical education teachers in Puerto Rico.

Keywords

• adapted physical education
• community integration
• disability
• social inclusion
• transition