The Able Trust Launches High School/High Tech Training ProgramTALLAHASSEE -The Able Trust (Governor's Alliance for the Employment of Citizens with Disabilities) has completed training program coordinators from its 35 High School/High Tech (HS/HT) programs statewide to begin implementing new high-tech initiatives. The HS/HT program is designed to provide high school students with all types of disabilities the opportunity to explore jobs or post secondary education leading to technology-related careers. Annually, 1,500 students in 107 high schools benefit from the 35 HS/HT programs statewide. Last year alone, 239 high school students in Florida representing all grades secured employment, and students who participated in the program entered post secondary education at more than three times the rate of other Florida graduates with disabilities. The HS/HT program is designed to reduce the dropout rate of youth with disabilities, increase their enrollment in college and improve participation in education, vocation and employment-related activities. The Florida HS/HT program activities take place during and after the school day and include job shadowing, corporate site visits, campus tours and summer internships. HS/HT links youth to a broad range of academic, career development and experiential resources and experiences that will enable them to meet the demands of the 21st century workforce. In Florida, The Able Trust helps to fund HS/HT statewide. It is one of four youth programs of The Able Trust that works to reduce the high school dropout rate of youth with disabilities and improve their participation in employment-related activities. These programs focus on building self-esteem, developing personal leadership skills and preparing young adults with disabilities for life beyond high school.
|