State Grant Allows Framingham State To Offer College Courses to Students With Intellectual Disabilities

FRAMINGHAM, MA - The Baker-Polito Administration released $77,106 in grant funding aimed at developing the Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment program at Framingham State University in partnership with public schools in Framingham, Natick, Ashland, Marlborough, and Westborough.

The Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative (ICEI) offers grants to fund programs supporting public high school students with severe disabilities, ages 18-22, who have not passed MCAS, the opportunity to participate in inclusive college courses (credit or non-credit) to increase their school and work 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.

“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 Baker, in a statement “The Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment initiative is a national model for building learning experiences and academic achievements for lifelong success.”

“We are proud to be the latest University to join this important program,” said Framingham State 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.”

The grant award announced today will facilitate a partnership between Framingham State and school districts in Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Marlborough and Westborough to create programs that give students access to college academics and other college related activities. The partnership will also include the Assabet Valley Collaborative in Marlborough.

“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, in a press release. “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.”

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.

Massachusetts supports funding for the grant to Framingham State University through a discrete line item in the state budget, one of the few states to provide college and university opportunities for young adults with intellectual disabilities while they are still in high school.

More information about the Inclusive Concurrent Enrollment Initiative can be found at:
http://www.mass.gov/edu/birth-grade-12/higher-education/initiatives-and-special-programs/inclusive-
concurrent-enrollment