The basic assumptions and guiding principles of the SMAL process include:

• All students must be appropriately prepared for a successful move to the next school level
• For some students, a visit to the new school is necessary before the start of the new school year.
• Students moving across levels must have an up-to-date IEP (Individualized Education Program) and evaluation.
• Receiving teachers must be provided with timely notification about students they will be serving next year along with specific IEP and learning information.
• Sending teachers must be informed of the learning opportunities and expectations for the next level to ensure that the student's IEP is properly written.
• Receiving and sending teachers of students moving across levels must take responsibility for the exchange of important information regarding the students' programs.
• Sending and receiving teachers are encouraged to use sub time for information-sharing sessions and observations.
• Students with disabilities, especially those with complex needs or PBST involvement, require specific, purposeful preparation activities to ensure a successful move to the next level.
• Professionals from the Positive Behavioral Support Team (PBST) must be part of discussions regarding the move to the next level if the student is served by the PBST.
• If a student is attending an alternative program, staff members from the alternative program must be part of discussions regarding the move to the next level.

When special education students turn 14 years of age, the IEP (Individualized Education Program) team, with input from the student, begins to plan for the student's life after high school such as going to college, seeking a job or joining the military.

For students in their last year of school, the IEP team must now develop a summary of the student's academic achievement and functional performance, with recommendations to assist in meeting the student's post high school goals. The MMSD electronic IEP system provides a checklist with a timeline for staff that outlines the appropriate steps in the SMAL process and documents that the steps have been followed.