This publication addresses basic issues related to the concept of transition as it is applied to students with disabilities in California. Following a pretest (and its answer key), the document uses a question and answer format to discuss common concerns about transition, normalization, the school role, the "Bridges" model developed by the federal Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, California's inclusion of all students "at risk," and emphasis on accountability and documentation of outcomes. Also noted are the four components of the California model: the transition foundation, the transition process, the transition culmination, and the transition follow-up. Major sections are then devoted to explanation of three key elements which have been identified as necessary for local transition efforts to be effective: (1) a local interagency policy team (which conducts a formal community needs assessment); (2) individual transition plans; and (3) a follow-up system. The final section offers suggestions for making a community plan for transition and a checklist to assess community transition readiness. Appendices include: a community needs survey; a sample individual transition plan; samples of follow-up data collection forms; and a listing of agency and community resources on transition. (Contains 50 references.) (DB)