Baker Administration Awards FSU a Grant to Support Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Baker Administration Awards FSU a Grant to Support Students with Intellectual Disabilities

Dec 7, 2015

Framingham State has received a $77,106 grant from the state aimed at providing public high school students with severe disabilities the opportunity to participate in inclusive college courses to increase their school and work success.

The money is part of the Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative (ICEI) and supports students aged 18-22, who have not passed MCAS. FSU will operate the program in partnership with public schools in Framingham, Natick, Ashland, Marlborough and Westborough.

“Increasing the diversity of our workforce to include more young adults with intellectual disabilities complements our administration’s commitment to developing economic vitality,” said Governor Charlie Baker. “The Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative is a national model for building learning experiences and academic achievements for lifelong success.”

Research shows that students benefit academically and transition to young adulthood more readily when they have the opportunity to engage in all college-related activities rather than staying at high school. Student participation in this grant program may be incorporated into a student’s transition program, as determined through the school district’s special education process.

“We are proud to be the latest University to join this important program,” says FSU President Javier Cevallos. “Students with intellectual disabilities should not be denied the opportunity to take part in college life and all the experiences that come with it. We are committed to helping prepare these students for successful, productive and fulfilling lives.”

Funded by the Commonwealth since 2008, the Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment program has grown to 14 public two-and four-year institutions supporting over 800 students. During the 2015 – 2016 academic year, over 130 students were enrolled in the program.

“Creating a variety of career development pathways for all students, including those with intellectual disabilities is an important priority,” said Massachusetts Secretary of Education James Peyser. “The academic and social opportunities in which these students will engage due to this grant program will afford them advantages over their peers and will prepare them well for the workforce demands of the future.”

About Framingham State University

Framingham State University was founded in 1839 as the nation’s first public university for the education of teachers. Since that time, it has evolved into a vibrant, comprehensive liberal arts institution offering small, personalized classes on a beautiful New England campus. Today, the University enrolls more than 6,000 students with 58 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in the arts, humanities, sciences, social sciences and professional fields. As a State College and University (SCU), Framingham State prides itself on quality academic programs, affordability, and commitment to access for all qualified students.