Florida Postsecondary Education Guide provides information on Universities, State Colleges, Career Centers, and Private Programs.
*DNE: https://www.fddc.org/sites/default/files/DDCouncil_EducationGuide.pdf
Parent Resources for Postsecondary Success
Are you ready?
We asked parents of Hispanic/Latino students with ASD which of the following options were discussed in their child’s IEP. These were our findings:
| NO IEP | Parents of Adults | Parents of Teens | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classes for industry certification | 0% | 8% | 9% |
| Dual Enrollment Courses | 33% | 15% | 17% |
| Articulated college credit classes | 7% | 5% | 9% |
| Florida Gold Seal Scholarship | 0% | 0% | 0% |
| Career pathways or career clusters | 7% | 5% | 0% |
| Career academies | 0% | 3% | 0% |
| Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses | 0% | 8% | 4% |
| Internship or pre-apprenticeship programs | 0% | 0% | 4% |
| None of the above were discussed | 40% | 18% | 35% |
| If these options were not explained in your child’s high school IEP meetings, please speak up! Many of these options can help better prepare your son or daughter for success after high school, but planning is needed to take advantage of them. | |||
Parent & Student Resources
Your child’s transition IEP is the key to making sure they are prepared for college success. Learn more about the areas research has indicated are important for a smooth transition to college, university or technical college.
English: https://youtu.be/5OJhHHNq-Vg Spanish: https://youtu.be/ygfJFglN-Hk
Florida is home to six specialized programs of ASD specific support within our college and university systems. To learn more, check out this video: https://youtu.be/eV0d_JAPBSM
Nova Southeastern University: Access Plus is a comprehensive program for services, academic, residential and vocational support for NSU students with ASD.
http://www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/autism/access-plus/support-programs.html
Santa Fe College: Spectrum of Success helps to integrate students with ASD into the Santa Fe College community.
https://www.sfcollege.edu/drc/sos/index
Seminole State College: Full Spectrum Support facilitates successful adjustment and progression of Seminole State students with ASD in all domains of college life.
https://www.seminolestate.edu/dss/autism-spectrum-disorders
University of Florida: SOCIAL GATORS is a program for UF students who identify as students with ASD. The program focuses on assisting students with developing skills for social interactions, independent living, career seeking, and academics.
https://disability.ufl.edu/students/social-gators/
University of North Florida: THRIVE is an ASD support program that focuses on social skills, independent living skills, and career development skills.
https://www.unf.edu/drc/THRIVE_Program.aspx
University of West Florida: ARGOS for Autism provides academic, social, life skills, and career planning support to students with autism.
It may be possible! Florida has many comprehensive postsecondary training programs based at colleges. These programs provide a college experience for students with intellectual disabilities, while preparing them for employment in a variety of fields. The Florida Center for Unique Abilities has many resources for families of students who have an intellectual disability. Click here for more information: Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities
A Parent and Teacher Guide in Section 504: Frequently Asked Questions addresses the differences between section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7690/urlt/0070055-504bro.pdf
A Parent and Teacher Guide in Section 504: Frequently Asked Questions addresses the differences between section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Mi Proximo Paso / My Next Move provides online opportunities for career and post-secondary education exploration and planning.
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Middle School Transition Trail Map provides a step by step plan for planning for secondary postsecondary, and career outcomes.
Read More in English Read More in Spanish
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Benchmarks for Middle School Transition Planning highlights the evidence-based indicators of postsecondary success.
Think College provides lots of information for families planning for postsecondary education for their child.
Think College’s Web-Based/Transition Assessments lists resources for assessing interests, abilities and work values for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
- Browse Govt. Resources Here
- Accommodations and Support Services for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A National Survey of Disability Resource Providers https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1153551
- Transition IEP Case Examples
- Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Transition Planning (English/Inglés)
- Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Transition Planning (Spanish/Español)
- VR and the Pathways to Services Presentation for Students and Families Revised
I’m Determined
This website is sponsored by the Virginia Department of Education and houses a plethora of self-determination resources.
Standing Up for Me – Plus (SUFM+)
This curriculum for high school students is available by contacting your Regional Transition Representative for a training. *Note: this curriculum can be used in full or in part. Many lessons include bell-ringer ideas that can easily be used in multiple educational settings.
http://project10.info/DPage.php?ID=331#NS84
Transition Assessment Chart
This document provides a list of formal and informal transition assessments that range from aptitude tests to questionnaires and interest inventories. Information for finding the assessments online is provided.
http://project10.info/Documents/Transition_Assessment_Chart_3.19.21_1_2.pdf
Zarrow Center for Learning Enrichment
This website contains free self-determination curriculum and student assessments.
https://www.ou.edu/education/centers-and-partnerships/zarrow
What I’m looking for is Even More Resources!
- Transition IEP Case Examples
- Transition IEP – A Parent Fact Sheet
- Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Transition Planning (English/Inglés)
- Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Transition Planning (Spanish/Español)
- Teacher IEP Input Form Fillable
- Student IEP Input Form Fillable
- Self Directed IEPs – Parent Fact Sheet
- Roles Around the IEP – Parent Fact Sheet
- Parent IEP Input Form Fillable
- VR and the Pathways to Services Presentation for Students and Families Revised
- Virginia Transition IEP Checklist – Fillable
- Transition IEP Flowchart
What is Postsecondary Education?
Postsecondary education is education after high school. This can include study at a community college, college or university. It can also include technical college and career certification or licensure coursework taken at a institution of higher learning. Florida is home to many postsecondary institutions. Research has shown that a postsecondary education can increase earning power, job satisfaction, and career opportunities.
How can I afford Postsecondary Education?
There are many paths to making postsecondary study affordable. Federal grants provide money for tuition and books to students from families with limited incomes. This money is not a loan–it does not have to be paid back. Additional funding may come from a work-study program at the post-secondary institution, where the student has a part time job on campus, sometimes even in an area that will help with their studies. The Bright Futures scholarship is available to students in Florida who maintain good grades and perform community service hours, but there are also scholarships just for students with ASD, and scholarships just for students from Hispanic/Latino backgrounds. Pre-paid college savings plans like a 529 plan or funds from ABLE accounts or Family Empowerment Scholarship can also be used for postsecondary education. And Florida’s Division for Vocational Rehabilitation also provides funding for tuition and books for income-eligible students.
When should we start planning for Postsecondary Education?
As soon as possible! It is never too early, and never too late to begin taking steps to prepare for postsecondary education.
Learn more about our research on Hispanic/Latino Students with ASD and what can be done to help families get the information they need for these students to be prepared and successful in college.
Our research indicated that parents of students with ASD from Hispanic/Latino backgrounds did not feel they were provided with the information on all of the options available to high school students to prepare them for life after high school. Hispanic/Latino families have unique cultural assets that support success transitioning into adulthood, but they also face significant barriers. Parents of Hispanic/Latino students with ASD must advocate for their child’s education, including steps to prepare students for postsecondary education. Learn more about our research findings in this video module.
American Council on Education: College on the Autism Spectrum features an article from Higher Education Today focused on preparing students for post-secondary education and supporting those already enrolled.
https://www.higheredtoday.org/2018/05/09/college-autism-spectrum/
Autism Focused Intervention Resources and Modules (AFIRM): online resources and modules for 27 evidence-based practices for children and youth with autism spectrum disorders.
Autism Speaks Postsecondary Educational Opportunities Guide provides insights into steps to pursue post-secondary education and how to choose programs that support students with ASD.
https://www.autismspeaks.org/tool-kit/postsecondary-educational-opportunities-guide
College Autism Network provides resources and research summaries on post-secondary programing for students with ASD.
https://collegeautismnetwork.org/
Center on Secondary Education for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (CSESA) provides information and resources to the community, individuals with autism and their families in the area of adolescence, autism, and high school.
Division on Career Development and Transition (DCDT) A division of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). Promotes national/international efforts to improve career/vocational and transition services for individuals with disabilities.
https://ccrs.osepideasthatwork.org/resources/cec-division-career-development-and-transition-dcdt
The DOIT Center: Autism Spectrum Disorders presents information on ASD and a list of accommodations by class type that may support students.
https://www.washington.edu/doit/programs/center-universal-design-education/overview
The DOIT Center: Invisible Disabilities and Postsecondary Education webinar presents how student self-determination impacts effective accommodations for students who are ASD or have other invisible disabilities can result in successful outcomes.
Expanding the Dialogue on Autism: Education provides a discussion individualization and systems change to fully support individuals with ASD in post-secondary education.
https://thinkcollege.net/resource/inclusive-academics/expanding-the-dialogue-on-autism-education
George Washington University: HEATH Resource Center at the National Youth Transitions Center for Students with Autism in the College Classroom provides online resources and information for supporting students with ASD.
https://www.heath.gwu.edu/wtcs-autism-spectrum-disorders-asd-guide
Indiana Resource Center for Autism: Academic Supports for College Students with an Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Overview of ASD and recommendations for support.
Informing and Equipping Parents of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Offers recommendations for parents and other stakeholders to help assist their child.
IRIS Center is a national center dedicated to improving education outcomes for all children, especially those with disabilities (birth through age twenty-one) through the use of effective evidence-based practices and interventions. There are excellent professional development modules featured, including one on best-practice transition IEP development.
https://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/
National Clearinghouse on Autism Evidence and Practice (NCAEP): A free online tool for practitioners and families.
NCLD: Self-Advocacy Skills and Self-Determination: Keys to Postsecondary Success – Key Considerations for Higher Education Faculty provides faculty with an overview of how to support students with invisible disabilities
OAR: Understanding Asperger Syndrome: A Professor’s Guide provides a video detailing how Asperger Syndrome may affect classroom behavior.
Scholarly Articles:
Anderson, A. H., Stephenson, J., Carter, M., & Carlon, S. (2018). A Systematic Literature Review of Empirical Research on Postsecondary Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 49(4), 1531–1558.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-018-3840-2
Cox, B. E., Thompson, K., Anderson, A., Mintz, A., Locks, T., Morgan, L., Wolz, A. (2017). College experiences for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Personal identity, public disclosure, and institutional support. Journal of College Student Development.
https://diginole.lib.fsu.edu/islandora/object/fsu%3A291205
Barnhill, G. P. (2016). Supporting students with Asperger syndrome on college campuses: Current practices. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities,31(1), 3–15.
https://doi.org/10.1177/1088357614523121
Brown, K.R. & Coomes, M.D. (2016) A spectrum of support: current and best practices for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at community colleges, Community College Journal of Research and Practice, 40:6, 465-479.
https://doi.org:/10.1080/10668926.2015.1067171
Dallas, B. K., Ramisch, J. L., & McGowan, B. (2015). Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Role of Family in Postsecondary Settings: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of Postsecondary Education & Disability, 28(2), 135.
https://eric.ed.gov/?q=Dallas%2c+B.+K.%2c+Ramisch%2c+J.+L.%2c+%26+McGowan%2c+B.+&id=EJ1074657
Dijkhuis, R., de Sonneville, L., Ziermans, T., Staal, W., & Swaab, H. (2020). Autism symptoms, executive functioning and academic progress in higher education students. Journal of Autism & Developmental Disorders, 50(4), 1353–1363.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-019-04267-8
Highlen, D. (2017) Helping Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the Community College: What Does the Research Say? What Can You Do?, Community College Journal of Research and Practice, 41:7, 447-454
https://doi.org/10.1080/10668926.2016.1199334
Jackson, S. L. J., Hart, L., Brown, J. T., & Volkmar, F. R. (2017). Brief Report: Self-Reported Academic, Social, and Mental Health Experiences of Post-Secondary Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 48(3), 643–650.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-017-3315-x
Kirby, A. V. (2016). Parent Expectations Mediate Outcomes for Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism Developmental Disorders, 46. 1643-1655.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-015-2691-3
Lizotte, M. (2018). I am a College Graduate: Postsecondary Experiences as Described by Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. International Journal of Education and Practice, 6(4), 179–191.
https://doi.org/10.18488/journal.61.2018.64.179.191
White, S. W., Elias, R., Capriola-Hall, N. N., Smith, I. C., Conner, C. M., Asselin, S. B., Mazefsky, C. A. (2017). Development of a College Transition and Support Program for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 47(10), 3072–3078.
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-017-3236-8
Widman, C.J., Lopez-Reyna, N. Supports for Postsecondary Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review. (2020) Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
IM Diversity: Dialog on Career Counseling and Latino/a Student Needs presents information about how to engage Latino students in post-secondary education settings. https://imdiversity.com/channels/entry-level-jobs/dialog-on-career-counseling-and-latinoa-student-needs/
NTACT Cultural Diversity and Secondary Transition Annotated Bibliography provides summaries of a series of studies on culturally sensitive transition processes. https://transitionta.org/system/files/bibliographies/AB_CLDYouth_6_2017.pdf
Scholarly Articles:
Bailey, T., Jaggars, S.S., Jenkins, D. (2015). Implementing guided pathways at Miami Dade College: A case study.
https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED562050
Crisp, G & Nori, A. (2010) Hispanic student success: Factors influencing the persistence and transfer decisions of Latino community college students enrolled in developmental education. Research in Higher Education
https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/RLOs/754/HispanicStudentSuccess.pdf
Eilenberg, J. S., Paff, M., Harrison, A. J., & Long, K. A. (2019). Disparities based on race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status over the transition to adulthood among adolescents and young adults on the autism spectrum: a systematic review. Current Psychiatry Reports, 21(5). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-019-1016-1
Sáenz, V. B., García-Louis, C., Mercédez, C. D. L., & Rodriguez, S. L. (2018). Mujeres supporting: How female family members influence the educational success of Latino males in postsecondary education. Journal of Hispanic Higher Education, 19(2), 169–194.
Find Something New provides additional tools and resources to support individuals as they progress through college and into the workforce. This site can be used to find your career path or to better plan for college and financial aid.
https://findsomethingnew.org/resources/
Florida Department of Education’s Approved Middle School Courses for Career and Education Planning provides a listing of courses that fulfill the requirements for a career planning course before ninth grade.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7531/urlt/approved-courses.pdf
Florida Department of Education’s Career Cluster Infographic Fact Sheets are designed to give students information on career paths, education needed and CTE courses to explore a variety of high-demand fields.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/5652/urlt/CareerClusterInfographics.pdf
Florida Department of Education’s College and Career Planning Educator’s Toolkit provides an overview of the middle grades career planning course requirements and planning tools for secondary education.
http://www.fldoe.org/academics/college-career-planning/educators-toolkit
Florida Department of Education High School Course Planning Sheet is a chart that can be used as a visual support for planning high school coursework.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7531/urlt/HighSchoolCoursePlan.pdf
Florida Ready to Work provides training and free courses to help individuals become more employable. This coursework can provide the skills needed to enhance communication, reasoning, and problem-solving.
https://www.floridareadytowork.com/jobseekers
FutureQuest Island is an interactive program to explore career options.
https://www.futurequestisland.org/#screen-login
Mi Proximo Paso/My Next Move provides online opportunities for career and post-secondary education exploration and planning.
https://www.mynextmove.org/ or https://www.miproximopaso.org/
O*net Online provides comprehensive occupational descriptions and data and a compendium of employment and career exploration linked to the national employment index.
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Middle School Transition Trail Map provides a step by step plan for planning for secondary postsecondary, and career outcomes.
http://project10.info/Documents/Middle_School_Transition_Trail_Map_-_Final_7.28.2020.pdf
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Benchmarks for Middle School Transition Planning highlights the evidence-based indicators of postsecondary success
http://project10.info/Documents/Benchmarks_for_MS_Transition_Planning_Final_7.27.20_docx_1_1.pdf
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Career and Technical Education: Enhancing Educational Experiences in Middle School, High School and Postsecondary Education Provides guidance on steps to pursue CTE options as early as middle school. http://project10.info/Documents/CTE_SSTIC_Product_with_CTE_Option_4.17.2020.pdf
Topical Brief: http://project10.info/Documents/January_2019_Topical_Brief_Career_and_Techni.pdf
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Collaboration for a Smooth Secondary Transition Topical brief provides guidance on appropriate transition supports. http://project10.info/Documents/July_2019_Topical_Brief_Collaboration_for_a_Smooth_Secondary_Transition.pdf
Think College’s Web-Based/Transition Assessments lists resources for assessing interests, abilities and work values for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
FCIHE Webinar: Independent Living & College Success. This webinar covers topics related to living on your own as a college student.
https://fcihe.com/event/fcihe-independent-living-college-success/
FCIHE: Webinar: What’s the difference between high school and college? This webinar explains differences between high school and post-secondary programs.
https://fcihe.com/event/whats-the-difference-between-high-school-college-webinar/
Find Something New provides additional tools and resources to support individuals as they progress through college and into the workforce. This site can be used to find your career path or to better plan for college and financial aid.
https://findsomethingnew.org/resources/
Finding your Way: A College Guide for Students on the Spectrum provides guidance for students preparing for transition to post-secondary education programs.
https://researchautism.org/findingyourway/
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities Planning for College Page provides resources and financial aid information on Florida’s postsecondary programs for students with intellectual disabilities.
https://fcsua.org/E_resources.php
National Collaborative on Workforce and Disability provides a workbook for youth to consider the benefits of disclosing and practice in how to do so effectively.
http://www.ncwd-youth.info/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/411_Disability_Disclosure_complete.pdf
NTACT: Resources for encouraging student participation in transition IEP meetings provides numerous resources for educators to encourage self-advocacy during IEP meetings. https://transitionta.org/system/files/resourcetrees/Resources%20for%20Involving%20Students%20in%20their%20IEP%20Process_2019.pdf?file=1&type=node&id=1908&force=
OAR: A Guide for Transition to Adulthood provides a comprehensive guide for parents and students as they consider secondary to post-secondary options.
https://researchautism.org/resources/a-guide-for-transition-to-adulthood/
Project 10 Standing Up for Me provides a self-determination and self-advocacy curriculum.
http://project10.info/files/SUFM_Participant_Materials_final.pdf
Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities provides a student guide to rights and responsibilities at the post-secondary level.
https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/transition.html
Think College Family Resources Page
Transition Coalition provides a series of training modules on transition support, including a module on cultural diversity.
https://transitioncoalition.org
Transition from School to Adulthood for Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder: What We Know and What We Need to Know provides information regarding transition from high school to college and employment.
https://doi.org/10.1177/1044207313518071
Scholarly Articles
Beresford, B., & Mitchell, W. (2014). Young people with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s syndrome planning for and anticipating the move to college: What supports a positive transition? British Journal of Special Education, 41(2), 151-171. doi:10.1111/1467-8578.12064
https://nasenjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1467-8578.12064
Brogdon, B., Cox, B. E., Edelstein, J., Roy, A., (2016). A Spectrum of Student Success: Identifying Factors Affecting Access, Experiences, and Outcomes for Students on the Autism Spectrum. College Autism Network, 1-35.
Chiang, Hsu-Min, Cheung, Y. K., Hickson, L., Tsai, L. Y., & Xiang, R. (2012). Predictive Factors of Participation in Postsecondary Education for High School Leavers with Autism. J Autism Dev Disord, 42, 685-696. doi: 10.1007/s10803-011-1297-7
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21618065/
Dallas, B. K., Ramisch, J. L., & McGowan, B. (2015). Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Role of Family in Postsecondary Settings: A Systematic Review of the Literature. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 28(2), 135-147.
https://eric.ed.gov/?q=Dallas%2c+B.+K.%2c+Ramisch%2c+J.+L.%2c+%26+McGowan%2c+B.+&id=EJ1074657
Los, J. E., Nasamran, A., & Witmer, S. E. (2017). Exploring Predictors of Postsecondary Outcomes for Students With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Education and Training in Autism and Developmental Disabilities, 52(4), 343-356. doi:10.1037/e603852013-001
https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1160232
Manju, B., Donahue, A.T., Gobbo, K., & Shnulsky, S. (2017) College Students Who Have ASD: Factors Related to First Year Performance. Journal of Postsecondary Education and Disability, 30 (4). 373-382.
https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1172785
McDaniel, S. & Hall, L. J. (February, 2018). The promise of extra-curricular club participation for high school students with autism spectrum disorder. Oral presentation at Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) conference, Tampa, FL.
Richardson, J. T. (2016). Academic attainment in students with autism spectrum disorders in distance education. Open Learning: The Journal of Open, Distance and E-Learning, 32(1), 81-91. doi:10.1080/02680513.2016.1272446
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/02680513.2016.1272446?journalCode=copl20
Shattuck, P., Silverman, C., & Sosnowy, C. (2018). Parents’ and Young Adults’ Perspectives on Transition Outcomes for Young Adults with Autism. Autism, 22 (1), 29-39. Doi: 10.1177/1362361317699585
Affordability in the Florida College System presents an analysis of the challenges and approaches to making post-secondary education affordable. http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7724/urlt/FCS18-Affordability.pdf
FCIHE Webinar: Financial Aid for College
https://fcihe.com/event/how-to-pay-for-college-scholarships-financial-aid-more-webinar/
Find Something New provides additional tools and resources to support individuals as they progress through college and into the workforce. This site can be used to find your career path or to better plan for college and financial aid.
https://findsomethingnew.org/resources/
Florida Bright Futures Handbook lists Bright Futures scholarships, including
Florida Gold Seal CAPE Scholarships for students enrolled in certain career and technical education programs.
https://www.floridastudentfinancialaidsg.org/SAPBFMAIN/SAPBFMAIN
Florida Center for Inclusive Higher Education webinar focused on accessing scholarships
https://fcihe.com/event/how-to-pay-for-college-scholarships-financial-aid-more-webinar/
Project 10 Financial Planning for Postsecondary Education page:
http://project10.info/DPage.php?ID=198
VR Transition Program and Services provides services for both high school and post-secondary students, including support with funding education and securing a career.
Accommodations and Support Services for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A National Survey of Disability Resource Providers https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1153551
Nova Southeastern University: Access Plus is a comprehensive program for services, academic, residential and vocational support for NSU students with ASD.
http://www.nova.edu/humandevelopment/autism/access-plus/support-programs.html
Santa Fe College: Spectrum of Success helps to integrate students with ASD into the Santa Fe College community.
https://www.sfcollege.edu/drc/sos/index
Seminole State College: Full Spectrum Support facilitates successful adjustment and progression of Seminole State students with ASD in all domains of college life.
https://www.seminolestate.edu/dss/autism-spectrum-disorders
University of Florida: SOCIAL GATORS is a program for UF students who identify as students with ASD. The program focuses on assisting students with developing skills for social interactions, independent living, career seeking, and academics.
https://disability.ufl.edu/students/social-gators/
University of North Florida: THRIVE is an ASD support program that focuses on social skills, independent living skills, and career development skills.
https://www.unf.edu/drc/THRIVE_Program.aspx
University of West Florida: ARGOS for Autism provides academic, social, life skills, and career planning support to students with autism.
Disability Support Services provides information about navigating state colleges for students with disabilities.
FLDOE Technical Assistance Paper: Career and Technical Education Basic Skills Assessment Requirements addresses the basic skills requirements for completion of career and technical education career certification programs of 450 hours or longer.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/5444/urlt/basic-skill-tap-att1.pdf
Florida Counseling for Future Education Handbook provides a listing of Florida State College credentials. https://dlss.flvc.org/documents/210036/217302/Florida+Counseling+for+Future+Education+Handbook.pdf/8e147e5f-857c-490e-be68-f145b084fc12
Florida Postsecondary Education Guide provides information on Universities, State Colleges, Career Centers, and Private Programs.
https://www.fddc.org/sites/default/files/DDCouncil_EducationGuide.pdf
Florida State Colleges, Florida DOE Division of State Colleges provides information on Florida state colleges.
A Parent and Teacher Guide in Section 504: Frequently Asked Questions addresses the differences between section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7690/urlt/0070055-504bro.pdf
College and Career Readiness and Success Center: How ESSA and IDEA Can Support College and Career Readiness for Students with Disabilities provides guidance on how these federal laws support the successful transition to post-secondary education and career development.
PACER: The ADA, Section 504 & Postsecondary Education explains the difference between the ADA and Section 504 and how they affect postsecondary education.
https://www.pacer.org/transition/resource-library/publications/NPC-42.pdf
Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Subpart E – Postsecondary Education provides the full text of ADA components of section 504 related to post-secondary education.
https://www2.ed.gov/policy/rights/reg/ocr/edlite-34cfr104.html#E
Find Something New provides additional tools and resources to support individuals as they progress through college and into the workforce. This site can be used to find your career path or to better plan for college and financial aid.
https://findsomethingnew.org/resources/
Florida Abilities Work includes resources for job-seekers with disabilities and employers, and lists agencies that support employment, including CareerSource Florida and Career Source Centers.
www.abilitieswork.employflorida.com
Florida Department of Education’s Career Cluster Infographic Fact Sheets are designed to give students information on career paths, education needed and CTE courses to explore a variety of high-demand fields.
http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/5652/urlt/CareerClusterInfographics.pdf
Florida Ready to Work provides training and free courses to help individuals become more employable. This coursework can provide the skills needed to enhance communication, reasoning, and problem-solving.
https://www.floridareadytowork.com/jobseekers
Mi Proximo Paso/My Next Move provides online opportunities for career and post-secondary education exploration and planning.
https://www.mynextmove.org/ or https://www.miproximopaso.org/
O*net Online provides comprehensive occupational descriptions and data and a compendium of employment and career exploration linked to the national employment index.
Project 10 Transition Education Network’s Career and Technical Education: Enhancing Educational Experiences in Middle School, High School and Postsecondary Education Provides guidance on steps to pursue CTE options as early as middle school.
http://project10.info/Documents/CTE_SSTIC_Product_with_CTE_Option_4.17.2020.pdf
Topical Brief: http://project10.info/Documents/January_2019_Topical_Brief_Career_and_Techni.pdf
Vocational Rehabilitation (Florida Department of Education’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation) provides support to individuals with disabilities whose employment is impacted by their disability.
VR Customer Services provides an overview of VR services.
http://www.rehabworks.org/customers.shtml
Scholarly Articles
Briel, L. W., & Evans Getzel, E. (2014). In their own words: The career planning experiences of college students with ASD. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 40, 195-202. doi:10.3233/JVR-140684
http://centerontransition.org/documents/publications/career_planning.pdf
Domin, D., & Sulewski, J. (2019). VR’s Role in the Seamless Transition from Higher Education to Employment. VR and Youth Rehabilitation Research and Training Center Practice Brief.
Kurtz, A and Jordan, M. (2008) Supporting Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Quality Employment Practices, Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts Boston.
https://www.communityinclusion.org/article.php?article_id=266
AHEAD: White Paper on Students with Intellectual Disabilities and Campus Disability Services presents practice recommendations for accommodating students with intellectual disabilities.
https://www.ahead.org/professional-resources/white-papers-guiding-documents
California State University Accessible Technology Initiative (ATI) “From Where I Sit” Video Series provides insight for faculty and disability support staff into the lives experienced by a variety of students with disabilities.
https://teachingcommons.cdl.edu/access/sequestered_files/materials/fwis.shtml
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities
provides a wide array of resources that support the development of inclusive postsecondary education for students with intellectual disabilities, including a team planning tool and institutes, webinars, institutes, and student and family and transition planning resources.
Florida Consortium for Inclusive Higher Education Advising /Person-Centered Planning Page provides helpful links and resources for professionals working with students with disabilities, including a link to the Students Transitioning to Adult Roles (STAR) Online Module. https://fcihe.com/resources/programdevelopment/advising-planning/
Florida Consortium for Inclusive Higher Education Inclusive Postsecondary Education Webinar Series
https://fcihe.com/upcoming-events-training/
FCIHE Webinar: Students with Intellectual Disabilities in a College Course? Sure! But How Do We Do It?
Temple Collaborative on Community Inclusion’s Practical Guide for People with Disabilities Who Want to Go to College
http://www.tucollaborative.org/sdm_downloads/going-to-college-with-a-disability/
Scholarly Articles
Brown, K. R., & Coomes, M. D, (2015). A Spectrum of Support: Current and Best Practices for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) at Community Colleges. Community College Journal of Research and Practice, 40 (6), 465-479.
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10668926.2015.1067171
Johnson, David R. (2014). A Proposed Model for Engaging and Retaining Student with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities/Autism in Minnesota’s State Colleges and Universities, Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota.
Mykerezi, E., Markelova, H., McCullough, G. (published date unknown). Longer Runway: Economic Analysis of the Post-Secondary Education and Training Options for Youth with Developmental Delays. University of Minnesota.
College Autism Peer Support (CAPS) describes a successful peer mentoring program at Towson College
https://www.towson.edu/iwb/centers/hussman/programs/documents/caps-information.pdf
Scholarly Articles:
Girdler, S., Mazzucchelli, T. G., Rooney, R., & Siew, C. T. (2017). A Specialist Peer Mentoring Program for University Students on the Autism Spectrum: A Pilot Study. PLOS 12 (7).
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0180854
Lindsay, S., Hartman, L. R. & Fellin, M. (2016) A systematic review of mentorship programs to facilitate transition to post-secondary education and employment for youth and young adults with disabilities, Disability and Rehabilitation.
CBTV: Outside the Box Accommodations in College part 1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VivSnSNXXE
NAMI College Guide discusses mental health challenges for post-secondary education students and support and strategies in response.
https://www.nami.org/collegeguide
NCWD/Youth: Helping Youth with Mental Health Needs Avoid Transition Cliffs discusses challenges faced by young adults with mental health needs and describes strategies used by professionals to avoid age-related transition cliffs and prevent service interruptions.
http://www.ncwd-youth.info/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/infobrief_issue24.pdf
University of Massachusetts Medical School: Transitions ACR – Executive Functioning Skills: The Real Reasons Why Students with Mental Health Conditions May Struggle Academically links to other resources that address mental health in postsecondary education.
https://www.umassmed.edu/TransitionsACR/publication/presentations/education/
University of Massachusetts Medical School: Transitions ACR – Outside the Box Accommodations provides information on accommodations to address the social/emotional needs of students dealing with mental health challenges (in English and Spanish).
https://escholarship.umassmed.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=&httpsredir=1&article=1110&context=pib
University of Massachusetts Medical School: Transitions ACR: Tools for School: Accommodations for College Students with Mental Health Challenges provides information and guidance for students with mental health challenges.
https://www.umassmed.edu/TransitionsACR/publication/tip-sheets–issue-briefs/education/
Scholarly Articles:
Anderson, A., Cox, B. E., Edelstein, J., & Wolz A. (2019) Identifying and Addressing the Concerns of College Students with Autism. College Students with Autism. College Student Affairs Journal, 37, 14-27.
https://muse.jhu.edu/article/722356
Hu, Q., & Chandrasekhar, T. (2020). Meeting the mental health needs of college students with ASD: A survey of university and college counseling center directors. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD): Employment Enhancement Project provides resources to assist persons who are on the iBudget waiting list with securing employment.
http://apd.myflorida.com/customers/supported-employment/
Arc of Florida provides resources and supports for individuals with intellectual disabilities
Disability Rights Florida provides advocacy and legal protection services for individuals with disabilities in Florida. See topical papers. http://www.disabilityrightsflorida.org/resources/disability_topics
Employment First Florida supports competitive integrated employment for persons with disabilities.
http://www.employmentfirstfl.org/
Family Café provides an annual conference and resources for families of individuals with disabilities.
Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) provides assistive technology equipment loans, evaluations, and other resources.
Florida Centers for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) Seven regional centers provide support and assistance for persons with these disabilities, as well as training and technical assistance to post-secondary education programs and their faculty and staff.
Florida Center for Students with Unique Abilities provides a wide array of resources that support the development of inclusive postsecondary education for students with intellectual disabilities, including a team planning tool and institutes, webinars, institutes, and student and family and transition planning resources.
Florida Consortium for Inclusive Higher Education provides resources on a range of topics, including program development, independent living, career and employment, and more.
Florida Department of Education Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services (BEESS) oversees exceptional student education for students with disabilities, including autism, in Florida.
http://fldoe.org/academics/exceptional-student-edu
Florida Department of Education Division of Career and Adult Education oversees career and technical education and adult education for the state of Florida.
http://fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/
Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Inc. provides resources on a variety of topics relevant to families and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many items are available in English and Spanish.
Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System (FDLRS) provides instructional support for technology, professional development training, and other resources to support district exceptional education programs and families of students with disabilities.
Project 10 Transition Education Network provides a wealth of information for Florida professionals, students with disabilities, and their families on planning for transition to adulthood.
Vocational Rehabilitation (Florida Department of Education’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation) provides support to individuals with disabilities whose employment is impacted by their disability.
VR Customer Services provides an overview of VR services.
http://www.rehabworks.org/customers.shtml
Vocational Rehabilitation: Ticket to Work Program describes a work incentive program for persons who are receiving Social Security benefits based on their disability.
www.rehabworks.org/ticket.shtml
Vocational Rehabilitation Transition Program and Services provides services for both high school and post-secondary students, including support with funding education and securing a career.
http://rehabworks.org/docs/flyers/TransitionYouth.pdf
National Resources
Autism Speaks provides resources for individual and family support.
Division on Career Development and Transition (DCDT) A division of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). Promotes national/international efforts to improve career/vocational and transition services for individuals with disabilities.
https://community.cec.sped.org/dcdt/home
Family Network on Disabilities provides resources and training programs for persons with disabilities and families.
Organization for Autism Research (OAR) provides resources for people with ASD, their families, and support professionals to promote evidence-based practice.
Think College provides resources and training to support individuals with intellectual disabilities to attend post-secondary education programs, including resources for families. This site can be searched for extensive resources available in the Resource Library.
Scholarly Articles
Metty, W. (2019) Transition Contacts Meeting Part 1. FL: Florida Department of Education.
http://project10.info/Documents/Transition_Contacts_Meeting_FINAL.pdf
Accommodations and Support Services for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A National Survey of Disability Resource Providers
https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1153551
Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) is a nonprofit education research and development organization that works to expand learning opportunities for all individuals through Universal Design for Learning.
Columbia Regional Program provides expanded core curriculum designed to help educational staff to provide self-discovery, structured learning activities, and a cumulative understanding of the many facets of self-determination for youth and young adults with ASD.
https://www.crporegon.org/Page/282
The DO IT Center: Distance Learning Course: Academic Accommodations for Students with Disabilities presents online modules for faculty members, teaching assistants and/or administrators on how to employ universal design and accommodation strategies.
The DOIT Center: Equal Access: Student Services video presents information on how to apply universal design principles to make postsecondary student services accessible to all students.
Florida Consortium on Inclusive Higher (FCIHE) UDL Online Module presents information on strategies to make college coursework accessible.
https://fcihe.com/resources/fcihe-online-learning-modules/universal-design-learning
Institute of Education and Sciences (What Works Clearinghouse): Strategies for Postsecondary Students in Developmental Education–A Practice Guide for College and University Administrators, Advisors, and Faculty website and downloadable resources provide guidance on making postsecondary education accessible to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/PracticeGuide/23#
National Center on Universal Design for Learning. Presents a repository of information on strategies to make college coursework accessible to all. Portal to the DOIT Center
Processes and Principles for Universal Design:
Applications of Universal Design
https://www.washington.edu/doit/resources/popular-resource-collections/applications-universal-design
University of North Florida Disability Resource Center: Faculty and Staff Learning Modules page presents information on students needing disability accommodations and supportive strategies by disability.
https://www.unf.edu/drc/Faculty_and_Staff_Learning_Modules.aspx
Scholarly Articles:
Burgstahler, S., & Russo-Gleicher, R.J. (2015). Applying Universal Design to Address the Needs of Postsecondary Students on the Autism Spectrum. Journal of Postsecondary Education & Disability, 28(2), 199.
https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ1074670
Sarrett, J. C. (2017). Autism and Accommodations in Higher Education: Insights from the Autism Community. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 48(3), 679–693.