This Introductory Packet provides readings and related activities on support for transitions to address barriers to student learning covering both research and best practices. It explores why transitions are dangerous opportunities that can disrupt or promote development. Key transitions and related intervention strategies are presented for starting school; daily transitions including before and after school as well as recess and lunch; year transitions such as beginning a new school year; moving to a new school/new country; transitions for special needs students; and transitions from high school. Planning and implementing programs that support transitions for students, family, and staff provide an opportunity for school support staff to take a leadership role. This encompasses program development and raising awareness about the benefits of coordinating programs for prevention and interventions designed to address transition problems. The importance of support staff, families and students planning for transitions is accompanied by suggestions and models. Resources include references, organizations, websites, and Center materials related to transitions. (Contains 14 references.) (GCP)